Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

by | Sep 19, 2025 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 18, 2025

Contact: press@michigan.gov

 

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced appointments to the following boards and commissions: Council on Climate Solutions; Natural Resources Trust Fund Board; Michigan Veterans’ Trust Fund Board of Trustees; Mental Health Diversion Council; Library of Michigan Board of Trustees; Autism Council; Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health, and Sports; Council on Future Mobility and Electrification; Michigan State Waterways Commission; State Construction Code Commission; State Fire Safety Board; Electronic Recording Commission; Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice; and the State Council for Interstate Adult Offender Supervision.

 

Council on Climate Solutions

Lana Pollack, of Ann Arbor, is retired and most recently served as chair of the United States Section of the International Joint Commission. Pollack also served as the president of the Michigan Environmental Council and is a former Michigan State Senator. Pollack holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and a Master of Arts in education from the University of Michigan. Lana Pollack is reappointed for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring February 3, 2029.

 

The Council on Climate Solutions was created by Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order 2020-182. The Council acts in an advisory capacity to Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to formulate and oversee the implementation of the MI Healthy Climate Plan, which will serve as the action plan for this state to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition toward economywide carbon neutrality.

 

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Natural Resources Trust Fund Board

Dr. Brandy Brown, of Kalamazoo, is the founder of Sadberry Singer, a firm dedicated to creating innovative, equity-centered climate solutions. Dr. Brown previously served as a vice president at DNV and as the chief innovation officer for Walker-Miller Energy Services. Dr. Brown also served as the climate and energy advisor for the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. Dr. Brown holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications, law, economics, and government and a Master of Public Administration from American University as well as a Doctor of Philosophy in interdisciplinary evaluation from Western Michigan University. Dr. Brandy Brown will be reappointed for a term commencing October 2, 2025, and expiring October 1, 2029.

 

The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board oversees the Michigan Natural Resource Trust Fund which has been in place since 1976. The Trust Fund provides financial assistance to local governments and the Department of Natural Resources to purchase land or rights in land for public recreation or protection of land because of its environmental importance or its scenic beauty. It also assists in the appropriate development of land for public outdoor recreation.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Veterans’ Trust Fund Board of Trustees

Kimberly Napoleon, of Saginaw, is an accredited veteran service officer for the Department of Michigan American Legion and was the first female commander of VFW Department of Michigan. Napoleon is also a U.S. Army Veteran and served in the Gulf War. Kimberly Napoleon is appointed to represent independent veterans for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring February 25, 2026. Napoleon succeeds Rodney Loonsfoot, whose seat designation has changed.

 

Rodney Loonsfoot, of Baraga, serves as a Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal Council member and is a tribal veteran service officer for Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. Loonsfoot is a veteran who served in the Marine Corps and the Michigan National Guard and is a member of National American Indian Veterans, Inc. Rodney Loonsfoot is appointed to represent a congressionally chartered veterans’ organization, The National American Indian Veterans (NAIV), for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring February 25, 2026. Loonsfoot succeeds Carol Hebert, who has resigned.

 

The Michigan Veterans Trust Fund was created in 1946 from $50 million in postwar reserve funds. In 1996, the Veterans Trust Fund was provided additional protection by being added to the State Constitution with voter approval of Proposal C. The Veterans Trust Fund was established to provide grants for the emergency needs of veterans. The Veterans Trust Fund, utilizing approximately $2 million in interest earnings from the trust, administers the Emergency Grant Program. Emergency Grants are available to honorably discharged war time service veterans and their dependents during times of unforeseen and short-term financial emergencies or hardships. Veterans Trust Fund grant policies and adjudication, county committee appointments and expenditure from trust earnings are governed by this board.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Mental Health Diversion Council

Chief David Boysen, of Kalamazoo, is the chief of Kalamazoo Public Safety. Previously, Boysen was an assistant chief of public safety, and the captain of community safety and problem solving for Kalamazoo Public Safety. Boysen holds a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice and police science from Western Michigan University. Chief David Boysen is appointed to represent local law enforcement for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring January 30, 2029.  Boysen succeeds Troy Goodnough, whose seat designation has changed.

 

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.

 

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Library of Michigan Board of Trustees

Breina Pugh, of Lansing, is the government and community relations manager for the Lansing Board of Water and Light. Pugh holds a Bachelor of Science in political science from Alma College. Breina Pugh will be appointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing October 2, 2025, and expiring October 1, 2028. Pugh succeeds De’Janae Douglas, whose term has expired.

 

Audrey Barker, of Alto, is a youth branch librarian at the Kent District Library. Barker was previously a substitute teacher and paraprofessional at Professional Educational Services Group. Audrey holds a Bachelor of Science in economics from Grand Valley State University. Audrey Barker will be reappointed to represent public libraries for a term commencing October 2, 2025, and expiring October 1, 2028.

 

The Library of Michigan Board of Trustees makes recommendations to the Michigan Department of Education regarding the Library’s services, budget, and proposed governing rules. The Board of Trustees also makes recommendations regarding the employment of other administrative and general assistants and employees of the Library as are necessary for the care and management of the Library, including the Law Library Branch of the Library.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Autism Council

Krista Orellana, of East Grand Rapids, is the vice president of growth and chief clinical officer at Acorn Health. Orellana previously worked as a behavior analyst at Glenwood Resource Center and is a licensed behavior analyst. Orellana holds a Bachelor of Science in biology and psychology from Central Michigan University and a Master of Arts in behavioral analysis from Western Michigan University. Krista Orellana will be reappointed to represent certified behavior analysts for a term commencing October 1, 2025, and expiring September 30, 2029.

 

The Autism Council is charged with overseeing Michigan’s Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) State Plan. The Council will implement, monitor, and update the Michigan ASD State Plan which will provide for comprehensive, lifespan supports to individuals with ASD and their families through access to information and resources, coordination of services, and implementation of evidence-based practices.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health, and Sports

Nichole Fisher, of Lansing, is the executive director of mParks. Fisher holds a Bachelor of Applied Arts in parks and recreation from Central Michigan University. Nichole Fisher is appointed for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2026. Fisher succeeds Rahaf Khatib, whose term has expired.

 

Bryan Rief, of Northville, is the co-founder and chief executive of EPIC Fitness Group. Rief holds a Bachelor of Science in economics from Tufts University. Bryan Rief is reappointed for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2026.

 

The Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports was established in 1992 to improve the health of, and increase physical activity among, Michigan residents.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Council on Future Mobility and Electrification

Oliver Gross, of Oxford, is the senior fellow of energy storage and electrification at Stellantis. Gross serves on the Moxion Power Corporate Advisory Board, the Calix Technical Advisory Committee, and the AnteoTech Scientific Advisory Board. Gross holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Applied Science in materials science from the University of Toronto. Oliver Gross will be reappointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2025, and expiring October 21, 2029.

 

Judd Herzer, of Holt, is the mobility director for Michigan State University. Previously, Herzer was the director of strategic policy at the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and an infrastructure and technology advisor to the Executive Office of Governor Whitmer. Herzer holds a Bachelor of Arts in political economy and a Juris Doctor from Western Michigan University. Judd Herzer will be reappointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2025, and expiring October 21, 2029.

 

Alan Taub, of West Bloomfield, is the director of the University of Michigan Electric Vehicle Center and is a professor of engineering in materials science, engineering, and mechanical engineering. Prior to joining the University in 2012, Taub retired from his role as vice president for Global Research and Development at General Motors. Taub holds a Bachelor of Science in materials engineering from Brown University and a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in applied physics from Harvard University.  Alan Taub will be reappointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2025, and expiring October 21, 2029.

 

The Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification serves in an advisory capacity to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, the Governor, and the Legislature, providing annual recommendations on changes in state policy. In doing so, the Council works to ensure Michigan continues to be an epicenter of future transportation solutions around mobility and electrification.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan State Waterways Commission

Steve Remias, of Shelby Township, is a member of the Macomb County Chamber of Commerce and was previously the president and chief executive officer of MacRay Harbor. Remias was inducted into the Michigan Boating Industry Association Hall of Fame for his work on the state’s Clean Marinas program. Remias holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration with a concentration in accounting from Wayne State University. Steve Remias is appointed as a representative of the marine trades industry for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring September 18, 2026. Remias succeeds Erik Krueger, who has resigned.

 

The Michigan State Waterways Commission is responsible for the acquisition, construction, and maintenance of recreational harbors, channels, docking and launching facilities, and administration of commercial docks in the Straits of Mackinac.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

State Construction Code Commission

Nicholas White, of Petoskey, is a retired architect. White holds a Bachelor of Arts in fine art from Ohio Wesleyan University and Bachelor of Science in architecture from the University of Cincinnati. Nicholas White is appointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring January 31, 2028. White succeeds Justin Schott, whose term has expired.

 

Tyrese West, of Detroit, is an apprenticeship coordinator at LiUNA Training of Michigan. West holds a Bachelor of Science in actuarial science from the University of Michigan and a Master of Arts in education technology from the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Tyrese West is appointed as a representative of organized labor for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring January 31, 2028. West succeeds Daryl Gallant, whose term has expired.

 

The State Construction Code Commission was created to improve the quality of housing for Michigan residents while assisting the housing industry. The Commission may study the effect of the code, and other related laws, to ascertain their effect on the cost of building construction and maintenance, and the effectiveness of their provisions for insuring the health, safety, and welfare of the people of this state. The Commission may take testimony and hold hearings relating to any aspect or matter relative to the administration or enforcement of this act.

 

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

State Fire Safety Board

Sarah Glann, of Sanford, is the superintendent for Meridian Public Schools. Glann holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting and a Master of Educational Leadership from Saginaw Valley State University. Sarah Glann is appointed as a member of the governing board of a school district, public school academy, or intermediate school district for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring July 15, 2029. Glann succeeds Ruth Ann Knapp, whose term has expired.

 

The State Fire Safety Board assists in the development of fire safety rules covering the construction, operation, and maintenance of schools, health care facilities, penal facilities, and state-owned and leased facilities. The Board assists in the operation and maintenance of public assembly and other buildings, oversight of delegation of fire inspection responsibilities, and serves as an administrative hearing body on decisions made by the Bureau of Fire Services.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Electronic Recording Commission

Corinne Rockoff, of Ferndale, is a senior attorney at Miller Canfield Paddock and Stone, PLC, whose practice focuses on real estate, construction, and financial litigation. Rockoff was previously a shareholder at Maddin Hauser Roth & Heller, PC. Rockoff is also the chair of the board of directors for The Ruth Ellis Center. Rockoff holds a Bachelor of Science in international relations and politics and a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Carnegie Mellon University and a Juris Doctor from George Washington University Law School. Corinne Rockoff is appointed to represent attorneys licensed to practice law in the state and whose expertise emphasizes real property matters for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring January 1, 2026. Rockoff succeeds Dominic Rios, whose term has expired.

 

The Electronic Recording Commission keeps the standards and practices of county registers of deeds in this state in harmony with the standards and practices of offices of county registers of deeds in other jurisdictions. The Commission keeps the technology used by county registers of deeds in this state compatible with technology used by offices of county registers of deeds in other jurisdictions.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice

Uolanda Davis-Campbell, of Detroit, is the executive director of Urban Solutions Training and Development. Davis-Campbell holds a Bachelor of Science in communications and non-profit management from Eastern Michigan University. Uolanda Davis-Campbell is appointed as a volunteer who works with delinquent youth or youth at risk of delinquency for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring August 2, 2028. Davis-Campbell succeeds Maryann Sarosi, whose term has expired.

 

The mission of the Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice is to advise the Governor on matters related to juvenile justice legislation and administration, mobilize communities to develop and implement comprehensive, data driven prevention services, and create a strategic plan that sets standards, determines priorities, and allocates funds for successful delinquency prevention and rehabilitative programs that promote stronger families, healthier youth, and safer communities.

 

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

AG Vows to Intervene in upcoming DTE Gas Rate Hike Request

AG Vows to Intervene in upcoming DTE Gas Rate Hike Request

by | Sep 17, 2025 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 17, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

Attorney General Nessel Vows to Intervene in Upcoming DTE Gas Rate Hike Request

LANSING — Today, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel reaffirmed her commitment to protecting ratepayers, pledging once again to intervene in all major rate cases before the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). The announcement from the Attorney General comes as DTE entered a ‘Filing Announcement’ on Friday (PDF), announcing its intent to seek yet another natural gas rate hike less than one year since winning approval for its latest $113 million rate hike last November.

While it remains unknown how many additional millions of dollars DTE will seek to bill from their customers in this upcoming rate hike request, the utility corporation opened their previous case seeking to hike residential gas rates by nearly 10% in 2024. A summary of DTE’s new rate hike request is expected to be filed before the formal application, which the corporation indicates it will file in November.

“While we may not know the exact size of this increase yet, history is a good indicator that it will be significant and padded to fill the pockets of shareholders and executives,” Nessel said. “Less than a year ago, DTE won approval for a $113 million gas rate hike, and now they’re already starting the process of asking for more.

“Michigan families should not be treated like an endless ATM, and I will fight – just like I always have – to make sure ratepayers are not forced to shoulder unfair and excessive prices, but at some point, we have to ask when these repeated requests from DTE and Consumers Energy will end or, at the very least, when these requests will begin to reflect any ounce of respect for their ratepayers. Every single time we see these two massive, for-profit companies drag their customers before the Public Service Commission begging permission to squeeze them for more money, the review from my office and experts reveals millions of dollars in unsupported costs. In these cases, we’ve succeeded in making sure utility customers in this state don’t unfairly pay for corporate incentive programs, wasteful and inefficient spending, and even the costs of private jet travel for corporate officeholders.”

Recent rate hike requests from DTE and Consumers Energy have included such inappropriate costs as private jet travel for executive staff and other unsupported expenditures that could not be demonstrated to be reasonable or prudent. Rate hike cases currently open before the MPSC include DTE’s latest electric rate hike request (U-21860), Consumers Energy’s electric rate hike request (U-21870), and Consumers Energy’s natural gas rate hike request (U-21806).

The Attorney General has saved Michigan consumers nearly $4 billion by intervening in utility cases before the MPSC. DTE sells natural gas to 1.3 million customers across the state.
Fostering Futures Scholarship dinner unites partners

Fostering Futures Scholarship dinner unites partners

by | Sep 16, 2025 | Regional News

Treasury Logo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 16, 2025

Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167

Fostering Futures Scholarship

Panelist member Pura Strong and State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks converse during a panel discussion at the Fostering Futures Scholarship benefit dinner in Detroit on Sept. 12, 2025.

Fostering Futures Scholarship dinner unites partners to expand college opportunities for foster youth,
including landmark $50,000 donation

The Sootchy Charitable Foundation gift is the biggest ever
for Detroit foster youth to open college savings accounts

DETROIT – Collaboration and generosity were on full display at the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund benefit dinner Friday where community partners and donors rallied to support foster youth pursuing college.

The event at Detroit’s Roostertail featured a historic $50,000 gift from the Sootchy Charitable Foundation and Yoba Development, as well as a $25,529 donation from the Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP), alongside other contributions and special recognitions underscoring a shared commitment to help foster youth build brighter futures through higher education.

“For over a decade, the Michigan Department of Treasury, Michigan Education Trust and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services have worked together to bring hope and opportunity to Michigan’s foster youth,” State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks said. “This evening is about recognizing the barriers and demonstrating how compassion and support can be the difference between a dream and reality. We believe deeply in the potential of our foster youth.”

A partnership between the Michigan Education Trust (MET) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) makes Fostering Futures Scholarships possible.

“Every young person deserves the support and resources they need to pursue their educational and career dreams,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “MDHHS is proud to be part of Fostering Futures, which assists students who have experienced foster care with tuition and fees, books and supplies, and room and board for students at a vocation school, apprenticeship or college. For foster youth, financial support isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. By investing in their education, we’re not only helping them open doors, we’re affirming their worth and potential. ”

The fundraiser featured actor and youth advocate Dr. Malik Yoba, founder and CEO of Yoba Development and David Adefeso of the Sootchy Charitable Foundation, who announced a joint $50,000 donation to MET. The gift will establish MET education savings accounts — $1,000 each — for students at the House of Providence and for youth in the afterschool program at We Care Family Care.

More than 300 guests raised $111,000 for scholarships through MET, the Michigan Department of Treasury’s 529 prepaid tuition savings program.

In addition, MESP marked its 25th anniversary with a special gift: a $25,529 donation presented by Jennifer Burke and Chris McLeod of TIAA, Tuition Financing Inc. The donation, part of a yearlong campaign to match individual contributions to the scholarship, was in recognition of MESP’s milestone year, further expanding opportunities for Michigan foster youth. MESP is Michigan’s direct-sold investment 529 plan and partner in supporting foster youth.

Close to 10,000 youth are in the Michigan foster care system administered by MDHHS. Nationally, it is estimated that between 69% and 85% of students who have experienced foster care complete high school by their mid-20s, and just 8% to 11% go on to earn a postsecondary degree (associate or higher) — five times lower than the national average.

“The Fostering Futures Scholarship program ensures that young people who have experienced foster care are not left behind when it comes to accessing higher education,” said Robin Lott, executive director of  Treasury’s Office of Postsecondary Financial Planning. “We are grateful to every donor and partner who helps provide these students with the tools and resources they need to succeed — including the very special, ongoing support of Albert and Mitsie Scaglione and the Park West Foundation. In addition to their support for Fostering Futures Scholarship, they are helping hundreds of Detroit youth through various programs, which is dedicated to helping youth thrive as they transition from the foster care system.”

This academic year alone, 441 students at 60 different Michigan colleges and universities are benefiting from the scholarship. Since 2012, Fostering Futures events have raised more than $1.4 million, with all funds raised awarded as scholarships within the same year.

Couldn’t attend and want to make a difference?

Donate online, or mail your donation with the completed Fostering Futures Scholarship Contribution Form and a check made payable to the “State of Michigan — Fostering Futures Scholarship.”

Contributions made by Dec. 31 are eligible for federal and state income tax deductions for that year. MET’s Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund is an IRC Section 170(c) organization, making all donations tax deductible.

To learn more about the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund or to donate, go to www.michigan.gov/fosteringfutures.

Sponsors of the Detroit event were the MESP, Park West Foundation, Michigan Student Financial Aid Association, Michigan Association of State Universities, Ferris State University, Güd Marketing, Lake Trust Credit Union, former Michigan Supreme Court Justice Maura Corrigan, iHeartMedia, Metro Parent, Michigan College Access Network, Orchards Children’s Services, Western Michigan University Seita Scholars Program, the New Foster Care, Michigan Association of Broadcasters and WXYZ-TV 7 in Detroit.
Be Alert for Text Message Phishing Scam Making the Rounds

Be Alert for Text Message Phishing Scam Making the Rounds

by | Sep 15, 2025 | Regional News

Treasury Logo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 15, 2025

Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167

Treasury: Be Alert for Text Message Phishing Scam Making the Rounds

Treasury Never Sends Unsolicited Text Messages Requesting Sensitive Banking Data

LANSING, Mich. – Cybercriminals are up to new tricks with a new nationwide text message scam now circulating in Michigan that requests taxpayers’ personal banking information, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury.

In this latest scheme, scammers send urgent, unsolicited messages that appear to come from the Michigan Department of Treasury. The message falsely claims that a refund has been processed and that accurate payment information must be submitted by the taxpayer—or the refund will be forfeited.

The Michigan Department of Treasury never sends unsolicited text messages asking for personal data like banking information. Taxpayers who receive such messages should not reply or click on any links.

“This scam is just another trick in the cybercriminal playbook,” said Katina Litterini, who oversees Treasury’s Tax Administration Services Bureau. “Taxpayers who receive this bogus text message should immediately delete it. If you have questions about an outstanding refund, taxes owed or another state tax issue, please contact us so we can log the scam and discuss your options.”

The Michigan Department of Treasury corresponds with taxpayers through official letters sent through the U.S. Postal Service.

Taxpayers who receive this unsolicited text message or have questions about their state individual income taxes should call Treasury’s Individual Income Tax Information Line at 517-636-4486. A customer service representative can log the scam and verify outstanding refunds, if available.

To learn more about Michigan’s taxes, go to www.michigan.gov/taxes

Text Message Scam

# # #
Hispanic Heritage Month, Honors Contributions of Hispanic Communities

Hispanic Heritage Month, Honors Contributions of Hispanic Communities

by | Sep 15, 2025 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

September 15, 2025

Contact: press@michigan.gov

 

Gov. Whitmer Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, Honors Contributions of Hispanic Communities

 

LANSING, Mich. —  Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer is recognizing September 15 through October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month in Michigan, celebrating the rich history, culture and contributions of Hispanic Americans in shaping Michigan’s diverse communities.

 

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich history, vibrant culture, and bright future of our Hispanic community,” said Governor Whitmer. “Hispanic Michiganders contribute so much to the fabric of our state. From entrepreneurs and doctors to artists and journalists, Hispanic Michiganders make Michigan a better place to live, work, and raise a family. I’ll keep fighting to make sure everyone can make it in Michigan, regardless of who they are or where they come from.”

 

This month, we come together to celebrate the rich culture and contributions of Hispanic communities to Michigan,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “From art and music to culture and cuisine, Hispanic Michiganders have grown our economy and pushed our state forward in every conceivable way. I hope every Michigander takes time to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and reflect on the rich traditions, resilience, and achievements of our Hispanic community. I’ll keep working hard to make Michigan a beacon of opportunity where everyone can stay and succeed.”

 

“As the first Afro-Latina elected as a Kalamazoo County Commissioner and vice-chair, I am proud to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month—a time to honor the richness and diversity of Hispanic culture and traditions,” said Commissioner Monteze O. Morales, D3, Kalamazoo County Commission. “As a Puerto Rican, I cherish the traditions passed down from my ancestors, including the Taino, who remind us of the deep roots that connect us to our land. Our culture and contributions, along with other Hispanic communities, with its vibrant music, captivating art, and delicious cuisine, have significantly shaped Michigan’s landscape. From pioneering leaders in politics, innovators in business, or advocates in social justice, our collective history is woven into the fabric of this great state, enriching it with our diverse perspectives and experiences. As we celebrate this month, let us recognize the importance of representation and the power of our voices. Together, we can ensure that the contributions of Hispanic communities are acknowledged and celebrated, not just during Hispanic Heritage Month, but throughout the year. WEPA🇵🇷”

 

“National Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity for Americans, and, specifically, Michiganders, to recognize and honor the achievements and contributions Hispanics/Latinos have made to the great state of Michigan.” said Lorenzo Lopez, Latino/LGBTQ Change Maker. “Hispanics/Latinos have been in Michigan for over one hundred years and have made significant contributions to the agriculture and manufacturing sectors of our state. Hispanic Heritage Month gives us the opportunity to honor Hispanics/Latinos for their outstanding achievements. From educators, politicians, and doctors to factory workers, chefs, and biologists, Hispanics/Latinos have made Michigan a better place to live. During the month of Hispanic Heritage Month, we give a special tribute to all Hispanics/Latinos for their incredible contributions to our state.”

 

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the amazing contributions that the Hispanic community continues to make in this country,” said Guillermo Cisneros, President of West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “An economic report released by California Lutheran University and UCLA Health, shows that the GDP of Latinos in the United States in 2022 was $3.7 trillion. If Latinos living in the United States were an independent country, the U.S. Latino GDP would be the fifth largest GDP in the world. As Hispanics are the fastest growing population in the state of Michigan, we need to make sure we continue to invest and elevate the tireless work and contributions from this community to the overall economy not just in the state but in the United States.”

 

“The Michigan we all know, and love is not the same without the contributions of Latinos,” said Poppy Sias-Hernandez, Director of the Office of Global Michigan. “As we celebrate this month, we remain focused on ensuring every Michigander has a path to opportunity.”

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate how Latinos are a vital and important part of the United States,” said Isabel Montemayor-Vazquez, PhD, Executive Director of the Hispanic Latino Commission of Michigan. “From starting the National Farm Worker’s Association (Dolores Huerta) to serving on the Supreme Court (Justice Sonia Sotomayor), members of the Latino community contribute greatly to the U.S. economy, culture, government, and workforce. In Michigan.”

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to acknowledge and celebrate the diverse contributions of Hispanics to the rich tapestry of U.S. culture and economy,” said Florensio Hernandez, Chair of the Hispanic Latino Commission of Michigan. “As one of the largest agricultural states, Michigan understands the profound impact and significance of farm workers in our economy. Every year, we come together to pay homage and celebrate the history, traditions, contributions, and diverse aspects of Hispanic/Latino culture in the U.S., including food, music, dancing, art, and more.”

 

Governor Whitmer has worked to ensure appointees reflect Michigan’s diverse population. Since taking office, she has appointed 18 Hispanic and Latino judges, raising the total number of Hispanic and Latino individuals Governor Whitmer has appointed to various boards and commissions to 80. Governor Whitmer is committed to ensuring that the representation of the Hispanic community continues to be reflected across boards and commissions, as the Hispanic community is integral to the fabric of the State of Michigan.

 

Michigan is also home to a thriving and vibrant Hispanic/Latino culture through food, art, and music. Recently, local officials announced plans to nominate parts of Detroit’s West Vernor Highway and Bagley Street to the National Register of Historic Places as the strip hosts multiple Hispanic/Latino businesses that have operated for decades. This designation would earmark the area for preservation and financial incentives. Parts of southwest Detroit are already featured on the national historic list, but the new district would recognize the deep Hispanic/Latino history of the two commercial corridors.

 

Michigan joins the nation in commemorating the enduring influence of Hispanic Americans. Hispanic Americans have provided Michigan and the United States with unique social and cultural influences, fundamentally enriching the extraordinary character of our state and nation. The state appreciates the countless achievements of Hispanic Americans and continues our efforts to ensure that Michigan is a welcoming and inclusive place that provides just and equal opportunities for all.

 

Governor Whitmer’s Historic Wins for the Hispanic Community Across Michigan:

  • Secured $10 million in ongoing funding for the racial disparities task force, working to create stronger communities by expanding access to healthcare, economic opportunities, and more.
  • Secured the funding for a $2.6 million capacity building grant for the Latinx Technology & Community Center in Flint.
  • Invested $5 million to support capital improvements for the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber.
  • Quintupled working families tax credit, giving over 700,000 Michigan families an average tax refund of $3,150. This is extra cash for groceries, gas, school supplies, and more.
  • Hispanic Latino Commission outlined a strategic plan to grow investments in education, workforce and economic development, health, housing, community investment, and public safety.
  • Increased funding for English language learners in schools.
  • Put tens of thousands of Michiganders on a tuition-free path to higher education through Michigan Reconnect and lowered the cost of college by thousands for 7/10 graduating seniors with the Michigan Achievement Scholarship.
Oxford Report Will Strengthen County’s Response to Emergencies

Oxford Report Will Strengthen County’s Response to Emergencies

by | Sep 15, 2025 | Regional News

Coulter: Oxford Report Will Strengthen County’s Response to Emergencies, Provide Answers to Families and Community

Post Date:09/15/2025 1:33 PM

Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter issued the following statement about the Oxford High School shooting after action report, which Guidepost Solutions released today:

“Oakland County is committed to taking an open and honest look at how we respond to emergency events, including active assailant incidents like the Oxford High School shooting. The county has held a robust schedule of training for our thousands of first responders during the last 15 years, but we know that there are always lessons to be learned and ways to strengthen our response to prevent and address these tragedies. We saw on that day how our first responders reacted with dedication and courage in the face of horrifying violence, and this report reinforces their immense bravery. It also includes important insights that will help us build on the comprehensive strategies we already have in place, and we hope it will provide some long-awaited answers for the families and community.”