By Perry Schaible
Enquirer contributor

MONROE - Suzi Rubin isn't afraid of a challenge.

For years she fought for the creation of the Monroe Local Schools, and won when it split from the Middletown schools in 2000. She became a founding member of the school board.

Now, Rubin will focus that same determination and energy on City Council.

Rubin, 44, was appointed Thursday to fill the seat left vacant by Robert Youtsler. Council interviewed 14 candidates.

Youtsler resigned after winning re-election in November and being sworn in Jan. 1, citing family reasons.

"The effort that she's put into the school board and the city in the past really stood out," said Mayor Robert Routson.

Rubin has been involved with the community for 10 years as a school volunteer, a member of the City Planning Committee, which focused on the creation of a 25-year plan for city development, and a volunteer at City Fest.

The mother of three and student at the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music, she applied for the position because "there was a job that needed to be done."

She plans to combine her knowledge of the school district with her efforts on council.

"I think the schools and the city can work well together and do some things to benefit everyone," Rubin said.

She also sees her background on the Monroe Local Schools' finance committee as a benefit.

Rubin will be sworn in Jan. 27.