Since taking office in 2001, Gov. Ruth Ann Minner has worked to get things done in Delaware by improving schools, preserving and protecting the environment, improving health care and fighting cancer, and creating and keeping jobs. Through Gov. Minner’s commitment to educational excellence, she has provided Delaware’s students with a solid academic foundation where more students are meeting high standards in every grade and in every subject. In 2005, she signed legislation creating the Student Excellence Equals Degree (SEED) Scholarship program, which enables students who keep their grades up and stay out of trouble to go to college for free in the State of Delaware. Delaware has maintained its reputation as a national business and economic development leader during Gov. Minner’s second term due to her responsible fiscal management. In 2006, all three of the major rating agencies reaffirmed Delaware’s triple-A bond rating for the 11th consecutive year. She has led efforts to battle cancer and has worked to address rising energy costs and provide energy alternatives, such as biodiesel fuels, in addition to spearheading a Livable Delaware initiative. Beginning her political career in 1974, Gov. Minner served four terms in the state House of Representatives (1974-1982), and served three terms in the state Senate (1982-1993). She served as Delaware’s Lieutenant Governor from 1993 until 2001. She is the first woman to serve as Governor of the State of Delaware.