RELEASE: Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 18, 2025

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced appointments to the following boards and commissions: Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Health, and Sports; Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards; Michigan Infrastructure Council; State Police Retirement Board; Black Leadership Advisory Council; Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan; Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention (Children Trust Michigan) Board of Directors; Education Commission of the States; Data Collection Agency Governing Board; Michigan Board of Medicine; Committee on the Purchase of Goods and Services from Community Rehabilitation Organizations; and the Human Trafficking Commission.

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

Barry Sanders, of Bloomfield Hills, is a former running back for the Detroit Lions, a Pride of the Lions inductee, an NFL Hall of Famer, and a heart attack survivor. Sanders spent the entirety of his 10-year professional football career with the Detroit Lions, during which he was a six-time all-pro, four-time league rushing champion, two-time offensive player of the year, and the 1997 NFL MVP. Earlier this year, Sanders starred in the documentary “The Making of a Heart Attack” to raise awareness around heart health and routine doctors' visits. Barry Sanders is appointed for a term commencing December 18, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2026. Sanders succeeds Willie Burton, whose term has expired.

Bilal Saeed, of Ann Arbor, is adjunct professor at Wayne State University, where he teaches Ethics in Sport and Sports Marketing. Saeed is also the former vice president for brand and marketing strategy for the Detroit Pistons. Saeed holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in business management from Eastern Michigan University and a Master of Arts in sports management from Wayne State University. Bilal Saeed is reappointed for a term commencing December 18, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2027.

Danielle Plunkett, of Sterling Heights, is the executive director of Girls on the Run of Southeastern Michigan. Plunkett holds a Bachelor of Arts in secondary education from Michigan State University. Danielle Plunkett is appointed for a term commencing December 18, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2027. Plunkett succeeds Florine Mark, whose term has expired.

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.

Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards

Chief Tim Jungel, of Holland, is the chief of police for the City of Zeeland. Previously, Jungel spent 25 years with the Eaton County Sheriff’s Office, earning the title of chief deputy. Jungel holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice sociology from Western Michigan University. Tim Jungel will be appointed as a nominee of the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police for a term commencing January 1st, 2026, and expiring December 31st, 2029. Jungel succeeds Kimberly Koster, whose term will expire.

Ron Wiles, of Grand Blanc, is the executive director of the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police. Previously, Wiles served as the chief of police for Grand Blanc Township. Wiles holds a Bachelor of Science in geological sciences from Michigan State University. Ron Wiles is reappointed as a nominee of the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police for a term commencing December 18, 2025, and expiring December 31, 2027.

Matt Saxton, of Marshall, is the executive director of the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association. Previously, Saxton served as the Calhoun County Sheriff. Saxton holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from Lake Superior State University. Matt Saxton will be reappointed to represent the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.

Arthur Jay Weiss, of Farmington Hills, is the president of Arthur Jay Weiss & Associates, PC. Additionally, Weiss is the immediate past president of Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan, the current treasurer of the American Board of Criminal Lawyers, and a member of the Board of Directors of the Holocaust Center in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Weiss holds a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University. Arthur Weiss will be reappointed to represent the Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.

Michael Sauger, of Clinton Township, is the president of the Michigan Fraternal Order of Police and a police officer for the City of Warren. Michael Sauger will be reappointed to represent the Michigan Fraternal Order of Police for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.

Jim Stachowski, of Macomb, is the executive director of the Police Officers Labor Council of Michigan. Previously, Stachowski was a lieutenant with the Clinton Township Police Department. Stachowski holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from Madonna University. Jim Stachowski will be reappointed as a representative of the Police Officers Labor Council of Michigan for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.

Chad Trussler, of Macomb, is the Director of the Michigan Association of Police. In addition to this role, Trussler is an adjunct professor at Eastern Michigan University. 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 will be reappointed to represent the Michigan Association of Police for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring on December 31, 2029.

Dr. Lisa Jackson, of Ypsilanti, is a professor and chair of the department of Psychology at Schoolcraft College. Additionally, Dr. Jackson served as chair of Ann Arbor Independent Community Police Oversight Commission and is a certified practitioner of oversight. Dr. Jackson holds Doctor of Philosophy in Behavioral Neuroscience and Master of Science in psychology from the University of Michigan. Dr. Lisa Jackson will be reappointed to represent residents of the state for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.

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 Infrastructure Council

Amy O’Leary, of Troy, is the executive director of the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG). O’Leary holds a Bachelor of Arts in business and political science from Alma College and a Master of Science in planning from Eastern Michigan University. Amy O’Leary will be appointed for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028. O’Leary succeeds Kathleen Lomako, whose term will expire.

The Michigan Infrastructure Council is charged with developing a multiyear program, work plan, budget, and funding recommendation for asset management; updating it annually; and providing it to the Governor and the legislature by September 30 every year.

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

State Police Retirement Board

Captain Barry Schrader, of Charlotte, is the commander of the Michigan State Police First District. Schrader has served in the various roles throughout the Michigan State Police for over 25 years. Captain Barry Schrader will be appointed as an officer member of the retirement system having the rank of lieutenant or above for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028. Schrader succeeds Captain Timothy Olson, whose term is expiring.

The Michigan State Police Retirement Board provides oversight of the Michigan State Police Retirement System.

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

Black Leadership Advisory Council

Seydi Sarr, of Detroit, is founder of the African Bureau for Immigration and Social Affairs. Sarr holds an associate of applied science in nursing from Wayne County Community College, a Bachelor of Science in social work from Wayne State University, and a Master of Arts in social justice from Marygrove College. Seydi Sarr will be reappointed as a representative of Black leadership who is an immigrant or individual with expertise in immigration policy for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028.

Andrew Robinson, of St. Joseph, is the president of the Mosaic Christian Community Development Association and the president and chief executive officer of Emerge Innovation Hub. Robinson holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from Grand Valley State University, a Master of Arts in medieval studies from Western Michigan University, and a Doctor of Education in organizational leadership and development from Cornerstone University. Andrew Robinson will be reappointed to represent Black leadership in arts and culture for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028.

Terrence West, of Detroit, is the managing director of external affairs at Teach for America. West was previously an account executive at VanDyke Horn Public Relations. West holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communications from the University of Iowa. Terrence West will be appointed to represent Black leadership in education for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028. West succeeds Kelsey Purdue, whose term is expiring.

Kevin Jones, of Saginaw, is the founder of Blactiquing and the president of A Museum of Black Experiences. Jones was previously a senior associate at Morino Ventures. Jones holds a Bachelor of Arts in American culture from the University of Michigan, a Master of Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and a Master of Public Health from the University of Pennsylvania. Kevin Jones will be designated co-chair of the Black Leadership Advisory Commission for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor. Jones succeeds Donna Bell.

The Black Leadership Advisory Council is housed in the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and will act in an advisory capacity to the Governor and develop, review, and recommend policies and actions designed to eradicate and prevent discrimination and racial inequity in this state. The Council will also work to identify state laws, or gaps in state law, that create or perpetuate inequities, collaborate to promote legislation and regulation that ensures equitable treatment of all Michiganders, serve as a resource for community groups, and promote the cultural arts in the Black community.

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

Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan

Consuela Barber-Lopez, of Detroit, is the executive director of AMANDLA, a council of Metro Detroit grassroots organizations that are concerned with crimes against children. Barber-Lopez holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from Wayne State University. Consuela Barber-Lopez is reappointed for a term commencing December 18, 2025, and expiring December 10, 2028.

Gladys Pico-Gleason, of Comstock Park, is a clinical manager for the Diagnostic Lung Mass Clinic and Betty Ford Breast Care Services at Corewell Health. Pico-Gleason is a registered nurse and member of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses and of the National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives. Pico-Gleason holds an associate degree in nursing from Grand Rapids Community College and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Davenport University. Gladys Pico-Gleason is appointed for a term commencing December 18, 2025, and expiring December 10, 2028. Pico-Gleason succeeds Vanessa Guerra, whose term has expired.

Angel Gomez, of Burt, is the director of education and community outreach and a clinical therapist at McDowell Healing Arts Center. Gomez was previously a wellness coordinator at McDowell Healing Arts Center and a foster care support visitation coach at Wellspring Lutheran Services. Gomez is a licensed master social worker and holds a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Social Work from Saginaw Valley State University. Angel Gomez is appointed for a term commencing December 18, 2025, and expiring December 10, 2028. Angel Gomez succeeds Abril Siewert, 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.

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

Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention (Children Trust Michigan) Board of Directors

Parrish Underwood, of Farmington Hills, is president and chief executive officer of the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit. Underwood holds a Bachelor of Arts in business administration from Morehouse College and a Master of Science in organizational management and leadership from Springfield College. Parrish Underwood will be appointed as a member representing parents for a term commencing December 20, 2025, and expiring December 19, 2028. Underwood succeeds Jill Hoffman, whose term will expire.

Jason Griffin, of Grawn, is director of state government affairs at Hemlock Semiconductor. Griffin holds a Bachelor of Arts in international relations from James Madison College at Michigan State University. Jason Griffin will be appointed as a member representing the business community for a term commencing December 20, 2025, and expiring December 19, 2028. Griffin succeeds Earl Major, whose term will expire. Griffin will also serve as chair of the board of directors.

The Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Board, also known as Children Trust Michigan, was established by the Michigan Legislature in 1982 and serves as a voice for Michigan's children and families and promotes their health, safety, and welfare by funding effective local programs and services that prevent child abuse and neglect.

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

Education Commission of the States

Dr. Glenn Maleyko, of Okemos, became the State Superintendent of Public Instruction on December 8, 2025. Dr. Maleyko has more than 30 years of experience in public education and previously served as Superintendent of Dearborn Public Schools for 10 successful years, where he was also named the 2019 Michigan Superintendent of the Year. Dr. Maleyko holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and political science from the University of Windsor, a Master of Arts in education-curriculum and instruction and a degree in educational leadership and administration from the University of Detroit Mercy, and a Doctor of Philosophy in educational leadership and policy studies from Wayne State University. Dr. Glenn Maleyko is appointed as the head of a state agency responsible for public education for a term commencing December 18, 2025, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor. Dr. Maleyko succeeds Dr. Michael Rice, who has resigned.

The Education Commission of the States (ECS) was created in 1965 to improve public education by facilitating the exchange of information, ideas, and experiences among state policymakers and education leaders. As a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization involving key leaders from all levels of the education system, ECS creates unique opportunities to build partnerships, share information, and promote the development of policy based on the best available research and strategies.

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

Data Collection Agency Governing Board

Emily McDonough, of Williamston, is a senior deputy director with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, where she oversees the Self-Insured Programs Division, Insurance Compliance and Employer Records Division, and Vocational Rehabilitation, Administrative Rules, Contested Cases, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Division for the Workers' Disability Compensation Agency. McDonough holds a Bachelor of Science in biology from Michigan State University and a Juris Doctor from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. McDonough has held this annual appointment since 2019 and previously worked as an assistant attorney general. Emily McDonough will be reappointed to represent the executive branch for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2026.

The Data Collection Agency Governing Board is responsible for the determination of workers' compensation data requirements for establishing workers' disability compensation insurance rates.

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

Michigan Board of Medicine

Dondré Young, of Flint, is a federal partnerships manager. Young holds a Bachelor of Arts in social relations and policy from Michigan State University. Dondré Young will be reappointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.

Cassy Jones-McBryde, of Detroit, is the founder and executive director of The Michigan Chamber for Reproductive Justice. Cassy Jones-McBryde will be reappointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.

Dr. Mustafa Mark Hamed, of Novi, is the medical director for Huron, Lapeer, Sanilac, and Tuscola Counties. Dr. Hamed is an attending family medicine physician with Henry Ford Health System, medical director for McKenzie Health System in Sandusky, and EMS director for Sanilac County. Dr. Hamed is also an associate clinical professor in the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine and Central Michigan University College of Medicine. Dr. Hamed holds a Doctor of Medicine from St. Matthew's University School of Medicine of the Cayman Islands. Dr. Hamed will be reappointed as a physician for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.

Dr. Iltefat Hamzavi, of Northville, is the president and a clinical specialist at Hamzavi Dermatologist Specialists, a senior staff physician at Henry Ford Health, an associate professor of dermatology at Wayne State University, and a board member of the Global Vitiligo Foundation. Dr. Hamzavi holds a Bachelor of Science and a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Michigan. Dr. Iltefat Hamzavi will be reappointed as a physician for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029.

Dr. Phillip Levy, of West Bloomfield, is a professor and the associate vice president for population health and translational science at Wayne State University. Dr. Levy is also the director of the Wayne Mobile Health Unit Program. Dr. Levy holds a Bachelor of Science in biology from the University of Pennsylvania, a Master of Public Health from the University of Michigan, and a Doctor of Medicine from New York Medical College. Dr. Phillip Levy will be appointed as a physician for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029. Dr. Levy succeeds Dr. Michael Chafty, whose term will expire.

Dr. Rebecca Daniel, of Ann Arbor, is the continuing medical education and transitional year program director at Trinity Health Ann Arbor. Dr. Daniel holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Albion College and a Doctor of Medicine from the University of the West Indies. Dr. Rebecca Daniel will be appointed as a physician for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029. Dr. Daniel succeeds Dr. Cara Poland, whose term will expire.

Dr. Cheryl Gibson Fountain, of Grosse Pointe Park, is the is the medical director for clinical decision support at Blue Cross Blus Shield of Michigan. Dr. Gibson Fountain holds a Doctor of Medicine from Wayne State University College of Medicine. Dr. Cheryl Gibson Fountain will be appointed as a physician for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029. Dr. Gibson Fountain succeeds Dr. Surya Nalamati, whose term will expire.

The Michigan Board of Medicine works with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to oversee the practice of medical doctors in the state. 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 the Board by ascertaining minimal entry level competency of medical doctors and requiring continuing medical education during licensure.

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

Committee on the Purchase of Goods and Services from Community Rehabilitation Organizations (Set-Aside Committee)

Valerie Hiltz, of Eaton Rapids, is the central procurement services, MiDEAL, and outreach program manager for the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget and has been with the department for over ten years. Hiltz serves as president of the Michigan Public Procurement Officers Association, on the Eaton Rapids Planning Commission, and on the Eaton Rapids Brownfield Development Authority. Hiltz holds a Bachelor of Arts in advertising from Grand Valley State University.

Valerie Hiltz will be appointed to represent the purchasing division of the department for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring on March 31, 2026. Hiltz succeeds Genevieve Hayes, who is retiring.

The Committee on the Purchase of Goods and Services from Community Rehabilitation Organizations was designed to oversee the purchase of goods and services from community rehabilitation organizations by identifying, reviewing, and recommending approval or disapproval to the state administrative board requests from community rehabilitation organizations to provide goods and services for purchase by the Department of Technology, Management and Budget.

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

Human Trafficking Commission

Amy Smith, of Southgate, is the director of healing services at Avalon. Smith holds a Bachelor of Science in social work and a Master of Social Work from Eastern Michigan University. Amy Smith is appointed as the nominee of the Senate Majority Leader for a term commencing December 18, 2025, and expiring March 1, 2027. Smith succeeds Benjamin O’Hearn, whose term has expired.

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.

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