BATON ROUGE - When former State Representative John Bel Edwards announced he was running for governor, few Louisianians knew who he was. So it's safe to say even fewer knew his wife Donna.

Now that the Edwards are awaiting their transition into Governor's mansion in January, the state's next first lady is carving out her role.

It's common for the governor's spouse to champion a cause. Donna Edwards says hers will be music education.

"Music and the arts tend to be programs that kind of fly in the wind," said Edwards. "They depend on funding and I'd like to see them have stronger roles in our schools."

Her passion stems from her years of being a music teacher in Tangipahoa Parish. Edwards is leaving that job now that her family is moving to Baton Rouge.

The Edwards have been a couple since high school and married after John Bel joined the army. Donna said it was then more than ever that the two formed a tight bond.

"When you serve in the military for eight years, and you're away from mom and dad, you bond fast," she said.

Edwards believes her husband's ability to form relationships will be an asset as he works with the state legislature to tackle Louisiana's financial crisis.

"He's able to work with Republicans, Democrats, and everyone involved," she said. "Thats the only way we can mover forward."