Debra Allison Copening (née Mellot; July 4, 1964 – January 18, 2020) was a Democratic member of the Nevada Senate, representing Clark County District 6 (map) from 2009 to 13, defeating incumbent Bob Beers in 2008. She did not run for re-election in 2012.

Early life

Allison Copening was born in Las Vegas. She graduated from Bonanza High School in 1982, and also attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas where she graduated with a B.A. in Communication Studies. Her parents were Harold and Jane Mellot; Copening had one older brother, Michael and one older sister, Gina.

Career

Copening started her career in the field of broadcasting for nine years at the CBS affiliate in Las Vegas, KLAS TV.

Personal life

Copening fought with breast cancer since 2005. She died on January 18, 2020, after a brief illness at the age of 55.