Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions
LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced appointments to the following boards and commissions: Joint Procurement Cooperation Council; Natural Resources Commission; MEDC Executive Committee; Certificate of Need Commission; Michigan Community Service Commission; Michigan Craft Beverage Council; Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan; Michigan Community Corrections Board; State Historical Records Advisory Board; Midwestern Higher Education Compact; Michigan Independent Living Council; Statewide Housing Partnership; Mental Health Diversion Council; Michigan Board of Examiners in Mortuary Science; Michigan Potato Industry Commission; Michigan Board of Architects; State Board of Professional Surveyors; Michigan Board of Social Work; Michigan Iron Industry Museum Advisory Board; Utility Consumer Participation Board; Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board; and the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards.
Joint Procurement Cooperation Council
Jared Ambrosier, of Bath, is the chief procurement officer for the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget. Ambrosier holds a degree from Michigan State University. Jared Ambrosier is appointed as a government representative for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring July 25, 2026.
Julie Hamp, of Dewitt, is the deputy director for the Michigan Department of Corrections. Hamp has worked at MDOC for over 35 years and has served in numerous roles, including as administrator of MDOC’s Procurement, Monitoring and Compliance Division and MDOC procurement manager. In her current role, Hamp oversees budget and finance, procurement, physical plant operations, training and recruitment, Michigan state industries, legal affairs, and research and planning for MDOC. Hamp holds a degree from Michigan State University. Julie Hamp is appointed as a government representative for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring July 25, 2026.
Michael Meddaugh, of Lansing, is the administrator of the Michigan Department of Transportation’s Contract Services Division, overseeing the procurement of professional engineering services, construction services, and a broad range of commodities supporting transportation infrastructure projects. Meddaugh works closely with industry groups such as the American Council of Engineering Companies and the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association, as well as federal, state, and local agencies to promote transparency, efficiency, and compliance in public procurement processes. Meddaugh holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Michigan State University. Michael Meddaugh is appointed as a government representative for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring July 25, 2026.
Adam Lach, of Howell, is the director of the design and construction division within the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget. Lach is a licensed architect with over 24 years of experience in the design and construction industry and holds a Bachelor of Science in architecture and a Master of Architecture from Lawrence Technological University. Adam Lach is appointed as a government representative for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring July 25, 2026.
William Sundholm, of DeWitt, is the director of fleet operations for the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget. Previously, Sundholm served as a vehicle consultant within DTMB. Sundholm holds a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice from Michigan State University. William Sundholm is appointed as a government representative for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring July 25, 2026.
Signed by Governor Whitmer and Premier Doug Ford in 2023, the Economic Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding establishes mutual economic priorities and, among other actions, creates the Joint Procurement Cooperation Council. The broader goal of this MOU is to promote bilateral trade, bolster infrastructure, and strengthen partnerships between private sector companies in Michigan and Canada. Through the Council, Michigan and Canada can explore and advance economic opportunities in their government procurement markets.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Natural Resources Commission
Rebecca Humphries, of Lowell, recently retired as chief executive officer of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. Before that, Humphries served as the chief executive officer of the National Wild Turkey Federation. Humphries began her career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service before joining the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). While at DNR, Humphries held several high-level roles, including chief of the Wildlife Division, and became the first woman to be appointed as director. Humphries also currently serves on the boards of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation and the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. She previously held leadership roles with the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, where she led the National Fish and Wildlife Health Initiative. Humphries holds a Bachelor of Science in wildlife biology from Michigan State University. Rebecca Humphries is appointed as an Independent for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring December 31, 2028. Humphries succeeds David Cozad, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Natural Resources Commission (NRC) has exclusive authority to regulate the taking of game and sportfish. It is additionally authorized to designate game species and to establish the first open season for animals through the issuance of orders.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michael Taylor, of Sterling Heights, has served as the mayor of Sterling Heights for over a decade and is also a partner at Kirk, Huth, Lange & Badalamenti, PLC, where he specializes in estate planning and probate law. A lifelong resident of Macomb County, Taylor served on the Sterling Heights City Council and as mayor pro tem prior to being elected Mayor. Taylor holds a Bachelor of Arts in economics from Kalamazoo College and a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School. Michael Taylor is appointed to represent public entities for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring April 5, 2027. Taylor succeeds Rosalynn Bliss, who has resigned.
The MEDC Executive Committee provides policy direction and guidance to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation regarding economic development program and initiatives. The Committee approves the MEDC corporate budget and appoints the chief executive officer, who administers all programs, funds, personnel, and all other transactions of the MEDC. The MEDC Executive Committee supports the MEDC through by assisting with governance, enabling results-based action, and advocating for both the organization and economic development in Michigan.
This appointment is –subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Certificate of Need Commission
Archie Drake, of Northville, is the chief executive officer at Children’s Hospital of Michigan. Drake holds an associate degree in nursing from Texarkana College, a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a Master of Business Administration from Amberton University. Archie Drake will be reappointed as a member representing hospitals for a term commencing April 10, 2025, and expiring April 9, 2028.
Debra Guido-Allen, of Sterling Heights, is the president of Corewell Health Dearborn Hospital. Guido-Allen holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Oakland University and a Master of Business Administration in healthcare management from American Continental University. Debra Guido-Allen is reappointed to represent nurses for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring January 1, 2028.
Greg Salwin, of Clarkston, is the director of health care initiatives at Stellantis. Salwin holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and a Master of Public Administration from Oakland University. Greg Salwin is reappointed as a member representing companies that are self-insured for healthcare coverage for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring January 1, 2028.
The Certificate of Need (CON) Commission has the responsibility to develop, approve, disapprove, or revise CON Review Standards that are used by the CON Program Section to issue decisions on CON applications. The Commission evaluates the Review Standards for modification on a three-year rotating schedule as identified in the Commission Workplan. The Commission also has the authority to make recommendations to revise the list of covered clinical services subject to CON review.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Community Service Commission
Christopher Boll, of Detroit, is lead counsel for mergers, acquisitions and alliances at Ford Motor Company. Boll serves as vice chair of Michigan Humane’s Humane Leaders Board of Directors, as a member of the Detroit Institute of Arts Founders Junior Council, and as board member of the Grand Circus Park Conservancy. Boll holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Michigan and a Juris Doctorate from Notre Dame Law School. Christopher Boll is appointed to represent business for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring October 1, 2027. Boll succeeds Angela Ayers, whose term has expired.
Robert Hoffman, of East Lansing, is the manager of public relations for the Wharton Center for Performing Arts and a host for FOX 47 News. Hoffman is also the founder of ePIFanyNow, a local nonprofit focused on highlighting local acts of kindness. Hoffman serves on the board of directors for the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation and holds an associate degree from Lansing Community College and a Bachelor Arts in interdisciplinary social studies from Michigan State University. Robert Hoffman is appointed to represent experts in the delivery of human, educational, environmental, or public safety services to communities and persons for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring October 1, 2026. Hoffman succeeds Jesse Venegas, whose term has expired.
Jazmine Danci, of Romulus, is the economic development administrator for the Downriver Community Conference. Danci holds a Bachelor of Arts in environmental policy and analysis from Bowling Green State University and a Master of Science in natural resources and environment from the University of Michigan. Jazmine Danci is appointed to represent experts in the delivery of human, educational, environmental, or public safety services to communities and persons for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring October 1, 2027. Danci succeeds Eric Schneidewind, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Community Service Commission strives to build a culture of service by providing vision and resources to strengthen communities through volunteerism. The Commission develops a three-year comprehensive national and community service plan for the state that shall be updated annually, oversees and submits the state’s applications to AmeriCorps and other public and private funding sources, establishes policies and procedures for the use of federal funds, and develops initiatives to promote community service in coordination with existing programs.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Craft Beverage Council
Jessica Youngblood, of Ray, is the owner and vineyard manager of Youngblood Vineyard. Youngblood is also the past chair of the National Grape Research Alliance and holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Walla Walla University. Jessica Youngblood is reappointed to represent wine makers for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring September 30, 2027.
Dr. Nikki Rothwell, of Suttons Bay, is the co-owner of Tandem Ciders. In addition, Rothwell works as an extension specialist and coordinator at the Northwest Michigan Horticultural Research Center. Previously, Rothwell was an adjunct professor at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. Dr. Rothwell holds a Bachelor of Science in biology from Western Michigan University, a Master of Science in entomology from Michigan State University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in entomology from the University of Massachusetts. Nikki Rothwell is appointed to represent wine makers that primarily manufacture cider for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring September 30, 2027. Rothwell succeeds Michael Beck, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Craft Beverage Council replaced the Grape and Wine Industry Council. The Council will award grants for research into winemaking, hops, barley, beer, and spirits; conduct market surveys and analysis; and offer other programs that encourage the agricultural elements related to Michigan’s craft beverage industries. The council’s activities are funded exclusively by non-retail, non-wholesale liquor license fees.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan
Monica Peach, of Escanaba, is the chief executive officer and a practicing therapist at Peach Blossom Therapy and Consultation Services. Peach was previously a therapist at AbleTo, and was a state worker for 15 years. Peach is a licensed master’s social worker and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and sociology from Northern Michigan University and a Master of Social Work from Michigan State University. Monica Peach is appointed for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring December 10, 2027. Peach succeeds Angelita Valdez, whose term has expired.
The Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan was created to develop a unified policy and plan of action to serve the needs of Michigan’s Hispanic and Latino people. The law directs the Commission to advise the Governor, the Legislature, and the office concerning the coordination and administration of state programs serving the Hispanic and Latino population.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Community Corrections Board
Brandon Davis, of Muskegon, is the managing director for the City of Grand Rapids. Additionally, Davis serves as adjunct professor at Calvin Community College. Davis holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications and sign language from Central Michigan University and a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School. Brandon Davis will be reappointed as a member of a city government for a term commencing April 1, 2025, and expiring March 31, 2029. Davis will also be reappointed as chair of the Michigan Community Corrections Board for a term expiring at the pleasure of the Governor.
Kyle Butler, of Portland, has served as the Ionia County Prosecutor since 2016. Butler holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice and psychology from Michigan State University and a Juris Doctor from Michigan State University College of Law. Kyle Butler will be appointed as a county prosecutor for a term commencing April 1, 2025, and expiring March 31, 2029. Butler succeeds Jennifer Janetsky, whose term will expire.
Juan Ortiz, of Trenton, is a business representative for the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights, where he has served for 26 years. Juan Ortiz will be appointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing April 1, 2025, and expiring March 31, 2029. Ortiz succeeds Kevin Krieg, whose term will expire.
Hon. Cori Barkman, of Dewitt, is a judge on the 29th Circuit Court bench in Clinton County. Barkman holds a Bachelor of Arts in comparative literature and Spanish from the University of Michigan and a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University. Cori Barkman will be appointed as a circuit court judge for a term commencing April 1, 2025, and expiring March 31, 2029. Barkman succeeds Hon. Martha Anderson, whose term will expire.
Hon. Adrianne Van Langevelde, of Charlotte, is a judge on the 56A District Court in Eaton County, where she has served since her appointment to the bench by Governor Whitmer on July 3, 2024. Judge Van Langevelde holds a Bachelor of Arts in social relations from James Madison College at Michigan State University and a Juris Doctor from Michigan State University College of Law. Adrienne Van Langevelde will be appointed as a district court judge for a term commencing April 1, 2025, and expiring March 31, 2029. Van Langevelde succeeds Hon. Bradley Knoll, whose term will expire.
Tiffany DeBruin, of Bath, is the owner and attorney at DeBruin Law, PLLC. DeBruin holds a Bachelor of Arts in business administration from Malone University, and a Juris Doctor from Capital University Law School. Tiffany DeBruin is appointed as a criminal defense attorney for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring March 31, 2029. DeBruin succeeds Marilena David-Martin, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Community Corrections Board serves in an advisory capacity to the Director of the Michigan Department of Corrections. It is charged with approving many components of community corrections programs, including goals, eligibility criteria, program guidelines, program standards and policies, the application process, procedures for funding, and criteria for evaluation.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
State Historical Records Advisory Board
April Maycock, of Beverly Hills, is the probate register and director of information services for the Wayne County Probate Court. Maycock holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in management information systems from the University of Michigan – Dearborn and additionally serves on the National Center for State Courts’ guardianship and technology steering committee. April Maycock is reappointed as a member at large for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring December 31, 2028.
Meredith Place, of Portage, is serving in her second term as the Kalamazoo County Clerk and Register of Deeds. Place previously served as an elected commissioner on the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners and was an appointed member on the City of Portage’s Planning Commission and vice chair of Kalamazoo County’s Environmental Health Advisory Council. Clerk Place is active with the Michigan Association of County Clerks and the Michigan Association of Registers of Deeds and holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and communication studies from the University of Iowa. Meredith Place is appointed as a member at large for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring December 31, 2028. Place succeeds Andrea Benefiel, whose term has expired.
The State Historical Records Advisory Board serves as a central advisory body for historical records planning and for National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC)-funded projects in the state. The Board acts as a coordinating body to facilitate cooperation and communication among historical records repositories and information agencies within the state and as a state-level review body for grant proposals that meet NHPRC grant program guidelines.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Midwestern Higher Education Compact
Dr. Daniel Hurley, of Okemos, is the chief executive officer of the Michigan Association of State Universities. Previously, Hurley was an associate vice president for government relations and state policy at the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. Hurley holds a Bachelor of Science in public relations from Grand Valley State University, a Master of Science in career and technical education from Ferris State University, and a Ph.D. in public administration from Western Michigan University. Dr. Daniel Hurley is reappointed to represent at-large members for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring March 18, 2029.
The Midwestern Higher Education Compact provides greater higher education opportunities and services in the Midwestern region, with the aim of furthering regional access to, research in and choice of higher education for the citizens residing in the several states which are parties to this Compact. The Midwestern Higher Education Commission consists of five resident members of each state: The Governor or the Governor’s designee, a legislator from each house, and two other at-large members.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Statewide Independent Living Council
Kenya Lowe, of Farmington Hills, is the director of the Division on Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing at the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. Lowe holds a Bachelor of Arts in education and special education from Michigan State University. Kenya Lowe is appointed as the designee of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor. Lowe succeeds Annie Urasky, who has resigned.
The Michigan Statewide Independent Living Council is charged with developing the state plan as provided in Section 704(a)(2) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 USC 796c(a)(2). The Council may work with centers for independent living to coordinate services with public and private entities to improve services provided to individuals with disabilities and conduct resource development activities to support the Council and the provision of independent living services by centers for independent living.
This appointment is not subject to advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan State Housing Development Authority Statewide Housing Partnership
Tara Bailey, of Manistee, is the housing director for the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians. Tara Bailey is appointed to represent a tribal government located within this state for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring September 30, 2027. Bailey succeeds Nicole Basch, who has resigned.
The new Statewide Housing Partnership will lead a coordinated, data-driven, outcome-oriented approach to housing, ensuring that all Michiganders have a safe, affordable place to call home. They will also establish regional consortiums to ensure statewide initiatives build on local efforts whenever possible, and they will inform Michiganders about their progress through public-facing communications. The Partnership will dissolve on September 6, 2024.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Mental Health Diversion Council
Troy Goodnough, of Monroe, is the Monroe County Sheriff. Goodnough previously served as the Major of Jail Operations for Monroe County. Goodnough holds a Bachelor of Science in organizational management from Spring Arbor University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Michigan – Dearborn. Troy Goodnough is appointed as an individual representing local law enforcement for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring January 30, 2029. Goodnough succeeds Carter Bright, whose term has expired.
Frank “Kevin” Fischer, of Plymouth, is the executive director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Michigan, where he has served since 2014. Fischer has worked as a certified crisis intervention team coordinator and trainer since 2017. Kevin Fischer is reappointed as an advocate or consumer representative on adult diversion issues for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring January 30, 2029.
Milton Mack, Jr., of Livingston, is the former state court administrator at the Michigan Supreme Court. Mack holds a Bachelor of Science in political science and history from Eastern Michigan University and a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University. Milton Mack, Jr., is reappointed to represent the State Court Administrative Office for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring January 30, 2028. Mack is also reappointed as chair of the Mental Health Diversion Council for a term expiring at the pleasure of the governor.
Timothy Smith, of Petoskey, is a court administrator and attorney referee at the Charlevoix County Probate and Family Court. Smith holds a Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering from Michigan Technological University and a Juris Doctor from Cooley Law School. Timothy Smith is reappointed as a court administrator for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring January 30, 2029.
The Mental Health Diversion Council was created in the Michigan Department of Community Health to advise and assist in the implementation of the Diversion Action Plan and provide recommendations for statutory, contractual or procedural changes to improve diversion.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Board of Examiners in Mortuary Science
Denise McPherson-Pratt, of Ypsilanti, is the retired owner of Mortgage Solutions of Michigan, Inc. McPherson-Pratt holds a Bachelor of Arts in business administration from Eastern Michigan University. Denise McPherson-Pratt is appointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring June 29, 2028. McPherson-Pratt succeeds Kristena Gilbreath, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Board of Examiners in Mortuary Science was created to license and regulate the practice of mortuary science and funeral establishments in Michigan. The Board works with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to oversee the practice of mortuary science licensees, residential trainees, and funeral homes.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Potato Industry Commission
Ryan Johnson, of Tustin, is the owner of A.L. Johnson and Sons, a potato packing facility. Johnson holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Saginaw Valley State University. Ryan Johnson is appointed to represent shippers for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring July 1, 2025. Johnson succeeds Rebecca Williams, who has resigned.
The Michigan Potato Industry Commission was created to foster and promote an economically viable potato industry in Michigan by providing responsible leadership for the industry. The Commission provides leadership in disseminating information to foster the growth and well-being of the potato industry, all the while representing the interests of the industry at state, national, and international levels.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Board of Architects
Dax Richer, of Ishpeming, is a senior architect at RG Design Company. Richer is a licensed architect and holds a Bachelor of Science in architecture and urban planning from the University of Wisconsin and a Master of Science in architecture from Lawrence Technological University. Dax Richer will be reappointed as an architect for a term commencing April 1, 2025, and expiring March 31, 2029.
Kelly Fedele, of Southgate, is the director of asset management and engineering for DTE Energy Gas Operations. Fedele is a licensed professional surveyor and holds a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from Lawrence Technological University, Master of Science in civil engineering from Wayne State University, and a Bachelor of Science in land surveying from Michigan Technological University. Kelly Fedele will be reappointed as a member representing the Board of Professional Surveyors for a term commencing April 1, 2025, and expiring March 31, 2029.
The Michigan Board of Architects was created under Article 20 of Public Act 299 of 1980, as amended, to regulate the practice of architecture, which is defined as “professional services, such as consultation, investigation, evaluation, planning, design, review of materials and completed phases of work in construction, alteration or repair in connection with a public or private structure, building, equipment, works or project, when the professional service requires the application of a principle of architecture or architectural design.”
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
State Board of Professional Surveyors
Kelly Fedele, of Southgate, is the director of asset management and engineering for DTE Energy Gas Operations. Fedele is a licensed professional surveyor and holds a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from Lawrence Technological University, a Bachelor of Science in land surveying from Michigan Technological University, and a Master of Science in civil engineering from Wayne State University. Kelly Fedele will be reappointed as a professional surveyor for a term commencing April 1, 2025, and expiring March 31, 2029.
Zachary Baker, of Maple City, is a licensed professional surveyor and the owner of Grand Traverse Surveying and Mapping. Baker holds a Bachelor of Science in land surveying from Michigan Technological University. Zachary Baker will be reappointed as a professional surveyor for a term commencing April 1, 2025, and expiring March 31, 2029.
The Michigan Board of Professional Surveyors was created to license and regulate the practice of professional surveying in Michigan. The Board works with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to oversee the practice of licensed professional surveyors.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Board of Social Work
Lauren Gamelin VanKeulen, of Wyoming, is the chief executive officer and co-founder of AYA Youth Collective. Gamelin VanKeulen was previously the co-founder and co-executive director of 3:11 Youth Housing, a therapist at Protocall Services, and a third-grade teacher at Excel Charter Academy. Gamelin VanKeulen is a licensed social worker and holds a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education from Calvin University and a Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California. Lauren Gamelin VanKeulen is appointed as an individual engaged primarily in the practice of social work for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring December 31, 2028, Gamelin VanKeulen succeeds Maria Petrides, whose term has expired.
Waverly Jones, of Lansing, is an advocate and investigator for Disability Rights Michigan. Jones earned both a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Social Work from the University of Alabama. Waverly Jones is appointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing on March 20, 2025, and expiring December 31, 2028. Jones succeeds Petra Alsoofy, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Board of Social Worker registers social workers in Michigan. Social Work is the professional application of social work values, principles, and techniques to counseling or to helping an individual, family, group, or community to enhance or restore the capacity for social functioning and/or provide, obtain, or improve tangible social and health services.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Iron Industry Museum Advisory Board
Karen Kasper, of Ishpeming, is retired, and currently serves as vice president of the Ishpeming Area Historical Society. Kasper volunteers as a museum docent at the Beaumier Upper Peninsula Heritage Center, as a tour guide at the Cliff Shafts Mine Museum, and with the Barnes-Hecker 100th anniversary remembrance committee. Previously, Kasper worked as a sales support specialist at West Business and a data entry clerk at Landmark Staffing Agency. Kasper holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Northern Michigan University. Karen Kasper is reappointed to represent the general public and residents of the Upper Peninsula for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring October 4, 2028.
Harold Fitch, of Williamston, is the president of H.R. Fitch Consulting Services LLC. Fitch was previously director of the oil, gas, and minerals division at the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and chief of the Geological and Land Management Division. Fitch holds a Bachelor of Science in geology from Michigan Technological University and a Master of Science in hydrology and water resource administration from the University of Arizona. Harold Fitch is reappointed to represent the general public for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring October 4, 2028.
Robert Mercure, of Marquette, is a retired teacher and school administrator. Mercure earned a Bachelor of Science in history and geography, a Master of Arts in recreation, and an administrative endorsement from Northern Michigan University. Robert Mercure is reappointed to represent the city of Marquette for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring October 4, 2028.
James Paquette, of Negaunee, was formally senior staff at Clevland Cliffs Iron Company. Paquette holds a Bachelor of Science in social services from Northern Michigan University. James Paquette is reappointed to represent the city of Negaunee for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring October 4, 2028.
Daniel Fountain, of Negaunee Township, is a member of the Negaunee Historical Society, Marquette Underwater Preserve Committee, and the Marquette Range Engineers Club. Fountain was previously an electronic repairman, maintenance analyst, and field electrician at Tilden and Empire Mines, and a maintenance technician at Pioneer Surgical Technology. Fountain holds an associate degree in electronic technology from Northern Michigan University. Daniel Fountain is reappointed to represent the Township of Negaunee for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring October 4, 2028.
Marius Grazulis, of Marquette, is a social studies teacher at Negaunee High School and a career educator. Grazulis is the Michigan Education Association board of directors’ representative for region 17 and the author of a book, Lithuanians in Michigan. Grazulis holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Kalamazoo College and a secondary education certificate for history and political science from Eastern Michigan University. Marius Grazulis is appointed to represent the general public and residents of the Upper Peninsula for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring October 4, 2028. Grazulis succeeds Gregory Montgomery, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Iron Industry Museum Advisory Board advises the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment on policies, plans and programs concerning the Michigan Iron Industry Museum. The Board supports education programs and public use of the facility.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board
Jeremy Shank, of Dowagiac, is the vice president of Central Produce Sales, Inc. Shank received an associate degree in automotive technology from Southwestern Michigan University and a Bachelor of Arts in business administration from Ferris State University. Jeremy Shank is appointed to represent growers-at-large for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring November 13, 2027. Shank succeeds Kyle Weber, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board seeks to promote the production and consumption of asparagus grown in Michigan as well as to assist in the agricultural research and development of asparagus farming.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Utility Consumer Participation Board
Nishaat Killeen, of Detroit, is the senior project manager at Public Sector Consultants, Michigan Saves. Killeen holds a Bachelor of Science in chemistry and science, technology, and society from Butler University and a Master of Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University. Nishaat Killeen is reappointed to represent individuals nominated by the Attorney General for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring January 7, 2027.
The Utility Consumer Participation Board provides grants to qualified applicants that represent the interests of Michigan’s residential energy (gas, electric, and other fuel) utility customers at residential energy proceedings before the Michigan Public Service Commission. Funding is generated through annual assessments of certain regulated utility companies.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards
Chad Trussler, of Macomb, is the director of the Michigan Association of Police. In addition, Trussler is an adjunct professor at Eastern Michigan University and Oakland Community College. Trussler holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from Madonna University and completed the police staff and command program at Eastern Michigan University. Chad Trussler is appointed to represent the Michigan Association of Police for a term commencing March 20, 2025, and expiring on December 31, 2025. Trussler succeeds Michael Hawkins, who has resigned.
The Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) executes its statutory responsibility to promote public safety in Michigan by setting standards for selection, employment, licensing, license revocation, and funding in law enforcement and criminal justice, in both the public and private sectors.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
