Governor Whitmer Header [ [link removed] ]

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE* 

December 14, 2023 

Contact: [email protected]  

  

*Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions* 

* * 

*LANSING, Mich. —* Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to Board of Interpreters for the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing, Michigan Board of Massage Therapy, Michigan Board of Occupational Therapists, Governor's Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect, Michigan Board of Speech Language Pathology, Human Trafficking Commission, Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice, Commission on Community Action and Economic Opportunity, Michigan Education Trust, State Plumbing Board, Commission of Agricultural and Rural Development, Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards, Michigan State Transportation Commission, Natural Resource Commission, Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board and Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council. 

 

Today’s appointees represent Michigan’s young professionals, communities of color, seniors, and more. The appointees announced this week build on Governor Whitmer’s work to ensure appointees reflect Michigan’s diverse population. Sixty percent of appointees are women or people of color, and the Whitmer cabinet is the most diverse in Michigan history. 

 

*Board of Interpreters for the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing* 

 

Sarah Houston, of Flint, is a staff interpreter for Communication Access Center. Over the course of her career, she also worked as a sign language interpreter for Sunbelt Staffing, Michigan Interpreting Group, and the Communication Access Center. Houston is reappointed to represent certified deaf persons' interpreters and an owner of or employee for an interpreter referral agency for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2027.   

 

Diana McKittrick, of Davison, is the general manager for the Communication Access Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Previously, she has also worked for the Michigan Department of Education as a sign language interview proficiency coordinator, administrator for the Communication Access Center, and adjunct professor for the American Sign Language Interpreter Training Program at Mott Community College. McKittrick received her Bachelor of Arts in sociology from the University of Michigan-Flint. McKittrick is reappointed to represent the general public for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2027.   

 

The Board of Interpreters for the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing was created to help streamline the sign language interpreter certification process and will advise the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs on all matters related to the certification of interpreters and the administration of the Deaf Persons’ Interpreters Act.  

  

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

 

*Michigan Board of Massage Therapy * 

 

Nicole Johnson, of Okemos, is a licensed massage therapist at Creative Wellness in East Lansing. Johnson holds a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Michigan, an Associate of Business Management degree from Baker College, and a Certificate from Irene’s Myomassology Institute. Johnson is appointed to represent massage therapists for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027. She is succeeding Irene Savoyat whose term is expiring on December 31, 2023.  

 

Jessica York, of St. Clair Shores, is the owner of Breathe: Bodywork and Beautification in Ferndale, Michigan. She is a national and state board-certified massage therapist with a certificate in massage therapy from National Institute of Technology and has attended the oncology and hospital massage program at Beaumont Hospital Integrative Medicine. York is appointed to represent massage therapists for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2025. She is succeeding Frances McCullough who has resigned. 

 

Public Act 471 of 2008 was officially recognized by the Secretary of State's office on January 9, 2009. This amends the Public Health Code to provide for the licensure of massage therapists. This bill was effective on January 9, 2009. The practice of massage therapy means the application of a system of structured touch, pressure, movement, and holding to the soft tissue of the human body in which the primary intent is to enhance or restore the health and well-being of the client. The Board of Massage Therapy consists of 11 members: 7 massage therapists and 4 public members. Each member serves 4-year terms.   

 

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

 

*Michigan Board of Occupational Therapists* 

 

Gregory Zimmerman, of Big Rapids, is an Associate Dean and tenured professor at Central Michigan University. He holds a Bachelor of Science in sports medicine/public health education from Central Michigan University, a Master of Science in health sciences administration from Central Michigan University, and a EdD in higher education leadership from Nova Southeastern University. Zimmerman is reappointed to represent the general public for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2025.  

 

Melissa Mafiah, of Canton, is a general physiatrist at Corewell Health Medical Group East in Taylor, Michigan. She is also an associate program director and core PMR Faculty member at the Corewell Health Taylor Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency Program. She holds a Bachelor of Science in biological sciences and a Doctor of Medicine from Wayne State University. Mafiah is reappointed to represent a public member who is a physician under part 170 or 175 for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.  

 

The Public Health Code mandates certain responsibilities and duties for a health professional licensing board. Underlying all duties is the responsibility of the Board to promote and protect the public's health, safety and welfare. This responsibility is implemented by ascertaining minimal entry level competency of occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants. The Board also has the obligation to take disciplinary action against licensees who have adversely affected the public's health, safety, and welfare. The Michigan Board of Occupational Therapists consists of 9 voting members: 5 occupational therapists and 4 public members, one of whom shall be a physician. 

 

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

 

*Governor's Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect* 

 

Ursula Ahart, of Detroit, is the Executive Director at Federation of Youth Services in Detroit, Michigan. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from Wayne State University and a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan. Ursula Ahart is reappointed to represent individuals experienced in working with homeless children and youths for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.  

 

James Perlaki, of Sterling Heights, is the Executive Director for Genesse County Youth Corporation. He holds a Bachelor of Science in human resources development with a specialization in youth and adult services from Oakland University. James Perlaki is reappointed to represent individuals experienced in working with homeless children and youths for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.  

 

Honorable Chris Ninomiya, of Iron Mountain, is a 41st Circuit Court Judge for the state of Michigan serving the counties of Dickinson, Menominee, and Iron. Judge Ninomiya holds a Bachelor of Arts in general business administration/pre-law from Michigan State University and a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University. Judge Ninomiya is reappointed to represent criminal court judges for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026. 

* * 

Created by Executive Order 2013-4, rescinding Executive Order 2010-18, the Governor’s Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect is established within the Department of Human Services and is designed as a multidisciplinary task force for the purposes of the federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act. The Task Force shall consist of 18 members appointed by the Governor for three-year terms who are professionals with knowledge and experience relating to the criminal justice system and issues of child physical abuse, child neglect, child sexual abuse and exploitation, and child maltreatment related fatalities. 

 

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

 

*Michigan Board of Speech Language Pathology* 

 

Patricia Roberts, of Sterling Heights, is an Administrator at Focus Hope, a non-profit organization whose aim is to overcome racism and poverty by educating underrepresented communities. She has previously been a coach and instructor at NASA. Roberts holds a Bachelor of Ats from Tugaloo College, a Master of Arts in education from Cambridge University, and a post Bachelor teaching certificate from the University of Detroit/Mercy. Roberts is reappointed to represent the general public for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 30, 2027.  

 

The Michigan Board of Speech Language Pathology works with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to oversee the practice of speech pathologists in this state. The Public Health Code defines the practice of speech-language pathology as the application of principles, methods, and procedures related to the development of disorders of human communication. Underlying all duties is the responsibility of the board to promote and protect the public's health, safety, and welfare.   

  

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

 

*Human Trafficking Commission* 

 

Melissa Palepu, of Grosse Pointe Farms, is an assistant attorney general in the Michigan Attorney General’s Office. She has also worked as an attorney for the Wayne County Land Bank Authority and the Wayne County Prosecutors Office. Palepu received her Bachelor of Arts in history and political science from the University of Michigan as well as her Juris Doctor from the University of Mercy Detroit School of Law. Palepu is appointed to represent the Department of the Attorney General for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor. She succeeds Kelly Carter who has resigned.  

 

The Human Trafficking Commission is designed to identify sources for grants that will assist in examining and countering human trafficking, fund research programs to determine the extent and nature of human trafficking in this state, and provide information and training to police officers, prosecutors, court personnel, social services personnel, and other individuals.    

  

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

 

*Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice* 

 

Cecilia Chesney, of Traverse City, is the CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan. Additionally, she previously served as the director of marketing for the Traverse City Area Public Schools. She received her Bachelor of Arts in communications from Concordia College. Chesney is appointed to represent programs that provide alternatives to incarceration, including programs providing organized recreation activities, for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring August 2, 2027. 

 

The Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice is an advisory body within the Department of Human Services that promotes the effective implementation of juvenile justice policy and greater administrative efficiency for juvenile justice programs. The Committee was created in accordance with the federal requirements under the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 for receiving grant funds to support juvenile justice initiatives.     

   

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

 

*Commission on Community Action and Economic Opportunity* 

 

Karen “Kerry” Lenagan-Baughman, of Traverse City, serves as the executive director for the Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency. She has been with the agency for the past 17 years and has also held a position as the early childhood programs director prior to moving into the role of executive director. Lenagan-Baughman received her Bachelor of Arts in social science as well as her Master of Arts in sociology from Eastern Michigan University. Lenaghan-Baughman is appointed to represent community action agencies, for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring June 21, 2024. She succeeds Ashley Slack who has resigned.  

 

The Commission on Community Action and Economic Opportunity was created to provide opportunity for low-income persons to actively participate in the development of policies and programs to reduce poverty and serves as a statewide forum to address the needs and concerns of low-income people in the state of Michigan.    

  

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

 

*Michigan Education Trust Board of Directors  * 

 

Andrew Meisner, of Huntington Woods, is the CEO of Community Unity Bank. He previously served as Oakland County Treasurer, as Chairman of the Michigan Land Bank Authority Board of Directors, and as a State Representative. While serving as a State Representative, he served as Assistant Democratic Leader and as vice-chair of the House Commerce Committee and Ethics, Oversight and Campaign Finance Committee, and served as a member of the Tax Policy Committee. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Michigan, and his Juris Doctor from University of Detroit-Mercy School of Law. Meisner is reappointed as the nominee of the state Senate Majority Leader for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.  

 

The Michigan Education Trust (MET) was established pursuant to Public Act 316 of 1986 as Michigan’s prepaid tuition program. MET is a “qualified tuition program” under Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code which provides tax exemption for the trust and tax exemption of earnings for contract participants who use MET funds to pay for qualified higher education expenses. The MET Board of Directors are responsible for policy development, investment initiatives, program development, and implementation.    

   

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

 

*State Plumbing Board* 

 

Joseph Alfonso, of Holland, is an office specialist for the City of Kentwood. He has also served as a non-commissioned officer for the United States Marine Corps. Alfonso is a current public notary and has attended Western Michigan University as well as Southern New Hampshire University. Alfonso is reappointed to represent the general public for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring July 30, 2026.   

 

The State Plumbing Board's duties include making recommendations for plumbing code rules, licensing plumbers, and making all orders, rules, and regulations necessary for the enforcement of the provisions of the act.   

   

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

 

*Commission of Agricultural and Rural Development* 

 

Monica Wyant, of East Grand Rapids, is the produce business manager for Meijer, Inc. and a former associate director of intergovernmental affairs for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. She earned her Master of Business Administration and Master of Science in natural resources from the University of Michigan and her Bachelor of Arts in political science from Northwestern University. Wyant is reappointed to represent Democrats for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027. 

 

Kathy Garthe, of Northport, is retired from a position as Vice President for Regional System Development and Corporate Communication for Munson Healthcare where her focus was carefully coordinated health services care for the combined northern lower 21 counties. She and her husband live on one of their conserved fruit-growing farms in Northport where they grow cherries, apples, and pears. Garthe holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Washburn University and a Master of Science in nursing from Wayne State University. Since her retirement, she has committed her time to serving the Leelanau community through board involvement in the Northport Area Heritage Association, the Leelanau Township Community Foundation, and the Leelanau Children’s Choir and Youth Ensemble. She is a member of Northport Energy and is active with the Dark Sky Committee of that organization. Garthe is appointed to represent Independents for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027. She succeeds Juliette King-McAvoy whose term will expire December 31, 2023 

 

The Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development provides oversight and executive direction for the programs of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and approves the rules and regulations the department promulgates.     

 

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

 

*Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards* 

 

Tellis Chapman, of Detroit, is the pastor at Galilee Baptist Church. Pastor Chapman is a board member of National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. and the director of their pastors’ and ministers’ division. He holds a Bachelor of Science in sociology from Jackson State University and honorary doctorates from Natchez College and Dallas Baptist College. Pastor Chapman is reappointed to represent residents of the state for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2027. 

 

Linda E. Broden, of Detroit, is the Sergeant-at-Arms for the Detroit Police Officers Association. She has worked with law enforcement since 1985. She is a graduate of Wayne County Community College 

with an Associate of Science in nursing. Sgt. Broden is reappointed to represent a law enforcement agency employing more than 10% of the police officers in the state for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2027. 

 

Kenneth Grabowski, of Livonia is the Business Agent and Legislative Director for the Police Officers Association of Michigan. Prior to this he served as a police officer in Redford Township for over a decade. He holds a Bachelor of Science in criminology from Eastern Michigan University. Director Grabowski is reappointed to represent an individual nominated by the Police Officers Association of Michigan for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2027. 

 

Nathan Johnson, of Vermontville, is the President of the Michigan State Police Troopers Association. He was a member of the 112th trooper recruit school and became a member of the Michigan State Police in 1995. Trooper Johnson is reappointed to represent an individual nominated by Michigan State Police Troopers Association for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2027. 

 

Anthony Wickersham is the sheriff for Macomb County. He holds a bachelor's degree in technical and interdisciplinary studies from Wayne State University. Sheriff Wickersham is reappointed to represent an individual nominated by the Michigan Sheriff's Association for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2027. 

 

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.       

 

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

 

*Michigan State Transportation Commission* 

 

Michael Hayes, of Midland, is the retired president and CEO of the Midland Center for the Arts. He holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology and sociology from Central Michigan University and a Master of Science in administration from Central Michigan University. Hayes is reappointed to represent Independents for a term commencing December 22, 2023, and expiring December 21, 2026. He 

 is also being designated as chair of the Michigan State Transportation Commission for a term expiring at the pleasure of the Governor.  

 

Richard Turner, of Monroe, is the director of Michigan Laborers-Employers Cooperation and Education Trust Fund. He is also a member of the Laborers' National Retiree Council. Turner is reappointed to represent Democrats for a term commencing December 22, 2023, and expiring December 21, 2026. 

 

The Michigan State Transportation Commission establishes policy for the Michigan Department of Transportation in relation to transportation programs and facilities and other works related to transportation development, as provided by law. Responsibilities of the Commission include developing and implementing comprehensive transportation plans for the entire state, including aeronautics and bus and rail transit, providing professional and technical assistance, and overseeing the administration of state and federal funds allocated for these programs.    

 

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

 

*Natural Resource Commission* 

 

Pete Eardley, of Grand Rapids, is the chairman of the board and owner of Cavallo, a software technology company. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications from Michigan State University. He and his wife also own and operate Oak Heart Lodge, a philanthropic project where they host 6-12 disabled veterans for 5 days and 4 nights and provide guided fishing, housing and meals. They are scheduled to host 36 weeks’ worth of groups next year. Eardley is reappointed to represent Independents for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.  

 

Robin Michigiizhigookwe Clark, of Sault Ste. Marie, is a Research Associate at Michigan Tech, where she is currently working on a Northern white cedar regeneration project. She holds a Bachelor of Science with honors in environmental studies and applications and a Master of Science in community, agriculture, recreation, and resource studies both from Michigan State University. She received her Doctor of Philosophy in forest science from Michigan Tech and has published in a variety of natural resource-related journals. She has previously worked in a variety of science and research positions with the Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan, Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, and Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. Clark is appointed to represent Democrats for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027. She succeeds Carol Rose, whose term will expire December 31, 2023. 

 

The Michigan Natural Resources Commission (NRC) has exclusive authority to regulate the taking of game and sportfish and is authorized to designate game species and authorize the establishment of the first open season for animals through the issuance of orders.  

 

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

 

*Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board* 

 

Steven Hamp is the former vice president and chief of staff for the Ford Motor Company and the former president of The Henry Ford. He currently serves on boards for; The Henry Ford, The Community Foundation for Southeastern Michigan, and LightUp! as well as serving on the Steering Committee for The Center for Michigan. Hamp is reappointed for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring October 1, 2027. 

 

The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board oversees the Michigan Natural Resource Trust Fund (MNRTF) 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 Developmental Disabilities Council* 

 

Maureen Webster, of Gregory, is the state division administrator for the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. She has also served as a rehabilitation consult manager for LEO and a business relations consultant for MDHHS. Webster received her Bachelor of Science in history and sociology from Grand Valley State University and her master's degree in counseling from Michigan State University. She is also a licensed counselor and certified clinical supervisor. Webster is appointed to represent a state agency that administers funds under the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring September 30, 2025. She succeeds Melissa Potter who has resigned.    

 

Ray Schuholz, of Redford, is a peer mentor for the Detroit Wayne County Community Mental Health Agency. He previously served as a peer advocate and local motivational speaker for Community Living Services and was chosen to be a guest speaker on the steps of the Capitol in Lansing on behalf of people with disabilities. He attended vocational school in Farmington. Schuholz is appointed to represent an individual with a developmental disability or parent or guardian of a child with developmental disabilities who resides or previously resided in an institution for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring September 30, 2024. He succeeds Marissa VanZile who has resigned.  

 

Janet Tuner-Harmon, of Romulus, worked as a developmental disability housing specialist for Southwest Solutions in Detroit. In her role, she was tasked with assisting families to locate housing, provide furniture and basic household items, and connect residents with community resources. She received her Bachelor of Science in economics and management from Michigan State University. Turner-Harmon is appointed to represent individuals with a developmental disability or parent or guardian of a child with developmental disabilities for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring September 30, 2026. She succeeds Bonnie Gonzales whose term has expired.  

 

Shawan Dortch, of Detroit, is a special education consultant for the Michigan Department of Education, a position she has had since 2014. Previously, she worked as a special education supervisor for Henry Ford High School and as a teacher for Detroit Public Schools. Dortch received her Bachelor of Business Administration from William Tyndale college and her Master of Art in education, specialized in special education from Wayne State University. Dortch is appointed to represent a state agency that administers funds under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring September 30, 2027. She succeeds Jeanne Anderson Tippett whose term has expired.   

 

Hannah “Leah” Ortiz, of Rockford, is the president and CEO of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Kent County. She has also served as a secretary for the Lakeview School District Board of Education, a trustee for the Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce, and is a veteran. Ortiz received her Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work and her Juris Doctor from Western Michigan University. Ortiz is appointed to represent local or non-governmental agencies concerned with services for individuals with developmental disabilities in this state with sufficient authority to engage in policy planning and implementation on behalf of the agency or group for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring September 30, 2027. She succeeds Kelly Rockwell whose term has expired. 

 

Scott Wamsley, of Dewitt, is the deputy director for Michigan’s Aging and Adult Services Agency. He has also served as an aging information system manager and a senior community service employment program manager. He received his Bachelor of Science in political science as well as his Master of Public Administration from Eastern Michigan University. Wamsley is reappointed to represent a state agency that administers funds provided under the Older Americans Act of 1965 for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring September 30, 2026.    

 

The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council acts as an advocate for people with developmental disabilities to increase access to appropriate treatment, services, and habilitation. The Council’s objectives include supporting and encouraging people to take control of their lives through community-wide, results-oriented action; channeling federal funds, in the form of grants, where they can do the most good; and maintaining and financially supporting a very effective system of local networking groups across the state known as "regional inclusive community coalitions," or RICCs.  

  

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

 

### 

 

 

STAY CONNECTED: Visit us on Facebook [ [link removed] ] Visit us on Twitter [ [link removed] ] [ [link removed] ]Sign up for email updates [ [link removed] ] [ [link removed] ]  

Subscriber Services::
Manage Preferences [ [link removed] ]  |  Unsubscribe [ [link removed] ]  |  Help [ [link removed] ]

                              Bookmark and Share [ [link removed] ] 



________________________________________________________________________

This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Michigan Executive Office of the Governor · 111 S. Capitol Ave · Lansing, Michigan 48901 GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]