Longtime educator Lisa Johnston of Overland Park on Wednesday announced she will seek the Democratic nomination for U.S. senator.

Johnston has spent 17 years in higher education, including the past seven years as assistant dean for Student Academic Services at Baker University.

She will complete her doctorate degree in foundations of education at Kansas University in May.

“With my background in higher education and status as a Washington outsider, I hope to bring a fresh perspective to Washington and work passionately to improve the future for Kansans and all Americans,” she said.

Johnston will likely face Charles Schollenberger of Prairie Village in the Democratic Party primary in August. The Republican Party primary features a duel between U.S. Reps. Jerry Moran and Todd Tiahrt. The race is for the seat being vacated by U.S. Sen. Sam Brownback, R-Kan., who is running for governor.