RELEASE: Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to the Michigan Board of Acupuncture, Barrier Free Design Board, State Boundary Commission, Board of Cosmetology, Elevator Safety Board, Michigan Board of Medicine, Michigan Task Force on Physician’s Assistants, Michigan Soybean Commission, Michigan Board of Speech Language Pathology, Michigan Arts and Culture Council, Michigan Craft Beverage Council, Great Lakes Protection Fund Board of Directors, and Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports.

Teena Chopra, M.D., of Troy, is a medical professor at the Wayne State University’s School of Medicine. She received undergraduate degrees in physics and chemistry from Sanroop Rani Government College, her Master of Public Health from Wayne State University, and her Doctor of Medicine from Dayanand Medical College. Dr. Chopra is appointed to represent physicians licensed under part 170 or 175 for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring June 30, 2025. She succeeds John Sealey whose term expired June 30, 2021.

Mark Crapo, OMD, of Battle Creek, is owner of ICare: Center for Acupuncture Restoration and Energy. He completed degrees in sports medicine and physical education from Central Michigan University and received his graduate degree in acupuncture and Doctor of Oriental Medicine from California Acupuncture College. Dr. Crapo is appointed to represent acupuncturists for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring June 30, 2026. He succeeds Renee Hubbs whose term expired June 30, 2022.

Abigail A. Ellsworth, of Frankfort, currently serves as a naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist at the Michigan Center for Holistic Medicine. She also currently serves as president of the Michigan Association of Naturopathic Doctors. Ms. Ellsworth received her Bachelor of Science in Zoology from the University of Wisconsin, her Master of Science degree in Marine Biology from the University of Alaska, and her Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree from the National University of Natural Medicine. Ms. Ellsworth is appointed to represent acupuncturists for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring June 30, 2026. She succeeds Beth Converse whose term expired June 30, 2022.

Fatima Fahs, M.D., of West Bloomfield, is a dermatologist at Hamzavi Dermatology. Additionally, she is a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at the Wayne State University School of Medicine and a clinical instructor at Beaumont Health. Dr. Fatima Fahs received her Bachelor of Science from Wayne State University, and her Doctor of Medicine from Oakland University’s William Beaumont School of Medicine. Dr. Fahs is appointed to represent physicians licensed under part 170 or 175 for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring June 30, 2026. She succeeds Jonathon Zaidan whose term has expired June 30, 2022.

Ryan Mehmandoost-Gauthier, DAOM, of Dearborn, is an acupuncturist at the Henry Ford Health System for Integrative Medicine. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Master of Science in Oriental Medicine from the Midwest College of Oriental Medicine. Additionally, he received his Doctorate in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine. Dr. Mehmandoost-Gauthier is appointed to represent acupuncturists for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring June 30, 2023. He succeeds Elizabeth Stewart who has resigned.

Heather M. Sloan, of Ann Arbor, is owner and acupuncturist at Heather Sloan LLC. She graduated with a Master of Science in Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College. Ms. Sloan is appointed to represent acupuncturists for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring June 30, 2026. She succeeds Julie Silver whose term has expired June 30, 2022.

The Michigan Board of Acupuncture works with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to oversee the practice of approximately 89 acupuncturists. Underlying all duties is the responsibility of the board to promote and protect the public's health, safety, and welfare, which is implemented by the Board by ascertaining minimal entry level competency of acupuncturists. The Board also has the obligation to take disciplinary action against registrants who have adversely affected the public's health, safety, and welfare.

Paul D. Ecklund, of Portage, is an ADA specialist and systems advocate at the Disability Network for Southwest Michigan. He received his bachelor’s degree in environmental studies from the University of Iowa and his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health from Western Michigan University. Mr. Ecklund is appointed to fill a vacancy representing visually impaired individuals for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring October 31, 2023.

Jamie L. Glenn, of Marquette, is an accessibility advocate for SAIL with the Disability Network of the Upper Peninsula. She graduated from Northern Michigan University with a degree in creative writing and journalism. Ms. Glenn is appointed to represent physically limited individuals who may be a wheelchair user for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring October 31, 2024. She succeeds Chris MacKay whose term expired October 31, 2021.

Mark R. Loch, of Farmington Hills, is a senior project manager at OHM Advisors. He received his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Michigan State University. Mr. Loch is reappointed to represent engineers for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring October 31, 2024.

Kelly L. Pelong, of Midland, is the executive director of the Disability Network of Mid-Michigan (DNMM). She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Central Michigan University. Ms. Pelong is appointed to represent wheelchair users for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring October 31, 2024. She succeeds Jamie Spore whose term has expired October 31, 2021.

The Barrier Free Design Board has the responsibility to receive, review, and process requests for exceptions to the barrier free design specifications, and requires appropriate equivalent alternatives when exceptions are granted. The Board receives, processes, and makes recommendations for barrier free design rules.   

Robin E. Beltramini, of Troy, is currently retired and previously served as president of the Michigan Municipal League. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Illinois. Ms. Beltramini is reappointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring November 15, 2025. The Governor has designated her to serve as chair of the commission.

The State Boundary Commission is responsible for administering the State Boundary Commission Act and portions of the Home Rule City Act and the Home Rule Village Act. The Commission serves as a quasi-judicial body adjudicating many types of municipal boundary adjustments and recommends, to the Director of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, the approval or denial of petitions for incorporations of new Home Rule Cities, new Home Rule Villages, and municipal consolidations.  The Commission also recommends approval or denial of certain types of petitions involving land currently under township jurisdiction that is proposed to be annexed into a Home Rule City. 

Phillip D. Nguyen, of Caledonia, is the owner and chief software engineer at Digital Marketing Solutions, LLC. Additionally, he is also the founder and board chairman of the Vietnamese Benevolence Foundation. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration from Western Michigan University and Master of Computer Science in Software Engineering from Grand Valley State University. Mr. Nguyen is appointed to represent the general public for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2026. He succeeds Fletcher Bland whose term expires December 31, 2022.

Kristan D. Sayers, of Howell, is owner and stylist at K Bella Hair Studio and Spa. She graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in textile design and merchandising management. Mrs. Sayers is appointed to represent licensed cosmetologists for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring December 31, 2025. She is succeeding Linda Ward whose term expired December 31, 2021.

Cindy L. Straley, of Alpena, is a cosmetologist with TRU Salon. She also holds an annual cut-a-thon to benefit students in need for Alpena Public Schools. She received her cosmetology license from Alpena’s Hollywood School of Beauty. Ms. Straley is reappointed to represent licensed cosmetologists for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2026.

The Michigan Board of Cosmetology was created to license and regulate the practice of cosmetology in Michigan. The statute defines cosmetology as one of the following services or a combination of the following services: hair care services, skin care services, manicuring services, and electrology. The members of the cosmetology industry who are licensed by the department include public and private schools of cosmetology, beauty shops, cosmetologists, manicurists, cosmetology instructors, electrologists, estheticians, and natural hair culturists.     

Michael D. Janca, of Roscommon, is an elevator contractor and business manager for IUEC Local 85. He previously worked as the elevator constructor mechanic and adjuster for Kone Elevator. Mr. Janca is reappointed to represent the elevator constructors’ union for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring July 22, 2026.

David Krueger, of Hemlock, is the co-owner of Doehring Schultz Agency. He attended Indiana Wesleyan University where he received a bachelor’s degree in finance and business administration. Mr. Krueger is appointed to represent insurance companies authorized to insure elevators in this state for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring July 22, 2023. He succeeds Sally Corbin who resigned.

Michael E. VanderVennet, of Livonia, is retired and previously served as a part time administrator for National Elevator Industry Educational programs. He received an associate degree in applied science from Ivy Tech Community College. Mr. VanderVennet is appointed to represent the general public for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring July 22, 2026. He succeeds Domenic Policicchio III whose term expired July 22, 2022.

The Elevator Safety Board promulgates rules and prepares examinations in relation to contractor licenses. The Board also conducts hearings to determine whether an elevator contractor license or certificate of competency or commission should be suspended or revoked.      

Marissa Baty, of Kentwood, is a physician assistant for Sound Physicians and Veterans Evaluation Services. She received her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Michigan State University and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Wayne State University. Ms. Baty is appointed to represent physician assistants for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2026. She succeeds John McGinnity whose term expires December 31, 2022.

Nancy L. Wayne, Ph.D., of Ann Arbor, is currently a professor emerita of physiology at the UCLA School of Medicine. Dr. Wayne earned her bachelor’s degree in biology at Northwestern University in Evanston, and her Ph.D. in Physiology at the University of Michigan. Dr. Wayne is reappointed to represent the general public for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2026.

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. 

Christina J. Hopps, of Rockford, is a vascular surgery physician assistant with the Spectrum Health Medical Group Vein Center. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Business Administration from Aquinas College. In addition, she earned a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Detroit Mercy. Ms. Christina J. Hopps is reappointed to represent physician’s assistants for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2026.

Adam A. Siddiqui, of Ann Arbor, is a psychiatric physician assistant at the University of Michigan. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in History and Master of Public Health from the University of Michigan and Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from South College. Mr. Siddiqui is appointed to represent physician’s assistants for a term commencing January 1, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2026. He succeeds CaShawnda Range whose term expires December 31, 2022.

The Michigan Task Force on Physician’s Assistants works with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory affairs to oversee the practice of physician’s assistants in this 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.   

Ryan J. Drozd, of Allegan, is a third-generation famer and an owner/partner of Drozd Family Grain. He graduated from Purdue University with a degree in farm management. Mr. Drozd is appointed to represent District 7 for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring September 23, 2025. He succeeds Steven Koeman whose term expired September 23, 2022.

Mark J. Senk, of Owosso, currently owns 2150 acres and rents another 580 acres of farmland. He currently serves as the vice president of the Soybean Commission and was originally appointed in 2019. Mr. Senk is reappointed to represent District 6 for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring September 23, 2025.

The Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee develops procedures relating to the soybean marketing program and recommends amendments to the marketing program. The Committee prepares the estimated budget required for the proper operation of the marketing program, develops methods for collecting and auditing the assessments, and collects and assembles information and data necessary for proper administration of the marketing program. 

Alexandra Gaitan-Flores, of Howell, is a speech language pathologist for the Ingham Intermediate School District. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from MGH Institute of Health Professions. Mrs. Gaitan-Flores is appointed to represent speech language pathologists for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring December 31, 2025. She succeeds Denise Ludwig whose term expired December 31, 2021.

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.   

Cézanne J. Charles, of Detroit, is the co-founder of RootofTwo. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theater from Ohio State University and a Master of Public Affairs from the University of Michigan Ford School of Public Policy. Ms. Charles is reappointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring September 1, 2025.

Julie Egan, of Detroit, is the founder of Salonniere and the Urban Diplomacy Project. Ms. Egan received a Master of Arts in Contemporary Arab Politics and Arabic from the Institut D’Etudes Politiques de Paris. In addition, she holds a Master of Arts in International Affairs and International Economics from Colombia University and a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Political Economy from Michigan State University. Ms. Egan is appointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring September 1, 2025. She succeeds Anne Marlowe Belanger whose term expired September 1, 2022.

Joori Jung, of Detroit, is the artistic director and choreographer of ArtLab J. She is also the founder and director of the Detroit Dance City Festival and is the publisher of the annual Moving with Detroit Dance Resource Magazine. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in Dance from Kyung Hee University. Ms. Jung is reappointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring September 1, 2025.

Esther Triggs, of Interlochen, is the director of diversity, equity, and inclusion at Interlochen Center for the Arts. She holds a Master of Arts in Applied Theatre for Social Justice from City University SPS and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Theatre Performance from Western Michigan University. Mrs. Triggs is appointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring September 1, 2025. She succeeds Sigal Hemy whose term expired September 1, 2022.

Gretchen L. Gonzales Davidson, of Birmingham, is the owner of the production company, El Studio 444 and she serves on the boards of the Detroit Children’s Fund, BasBlue, Cranbrook Academy of Art, Henry Ford Health System, and REBOOT. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science from Michigan State University. Mrs. Gonzales Davidson is reappointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring September 1, 2025. The Governor has designated her to serve as chair of the council.

The Michigan Arts and Culture Council serves to encourage, develop, and facilitate an enriched environment of creative and cultural activity in Michigan. The Council envisions a Michigan where every citizen celebrates the state's cultural treasures and arts, and cultural experiences are accessible to all its citizens.

Sean Black, of Grand Rapids, is the director of alcohol merchandising at Meijer. He is responsible for leading and developing the Beer, Wine, and Spirits Buying Team. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Supply Management from Western Michigan University. Mr. Black is reappointed to represent retail food establishments for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring September 30, 2026.

Robert J. Jacobson, of Ann Arbor, is the president of Leelanau Wine Cellars, Ltd and has been for over 10 years. He also serves as the treasurer of the Michigan Wine Producers Association. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Michigan. Mr. Jacobson is reappointed to represent wine makers for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring September 30, 2026.

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.

Tim Eder, of Chelsea, is a trustee of Lyndon Township in Washtenaw County. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Research Development from Michigan State University. Mr. Eder is reappointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor.

Laura Rubin, of Ann Arbor, is the director of the Healing Our Waters Great Lakes Coalition with the National Wildlife Federation. She holds the Bachelor of Arts in Business and Economics from Colorado College, and a Master of Business Administration and Master of Science in Natural Resources from the University of Michigan. Ms. Rubin is reappointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor.

The Great Lakes Protection Fund is a private, nonprofit corporation formed in 1989 by the Governors of the Great Lakes States. It is a permanent environmental endowment that supports collaborative actions to improve the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem. The Fund's Board of Directors is comprised of two governor appointed representatives from each member state.

Willie R. Burton, of Bloomfield Hills, is a program associate for high school athletics with the Detroit Public Schools Community District. He is also a former NBA basketball player and most recently played for the Miami Heat. He holds a bachelor’s degree in multidisciplinary studies from the University of Minnesota and a master’s degree in sports administration from Wayne State University. Mr. Burton is reappointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring April 30, 2024.

Justin Cessante, of Novi, is currently the director of strategic partnerships at Legacy Center Sports Complex and the national director of football for Legacy Football Organizations. He is also the founder and executive director of The LEAD Foundation. Mr. Cessante holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing and communications from Grand Valley State University. Mr. Cessante is appointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring April 30, 2024. He succeeds Joan M. Gustafson whose term expired April 30, 2022.

Lashanda Jackson, of Davison, is a community nutrition instructor with Michigan State University Extension in Flint. She is also a nutrition educator and project manager for the SBEV Nutrition Grant Program. She holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Ferris State University and a master’s degree in criminal justice from Michigan State University. Ms. Jackson is appointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring April 30, 2024. She succeeds Scott M. Przystas whose term expired April 30, 2022.

Rahaf Khatib, of Farmington Hills, is the founder of Run Like a Hijabi, LLC. She is a professional runner and was a coach for Girls on the Run in Michigan. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Wayne State University. Ms. Khatib is appointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring April 30, 2024. She succeeds LaDontaye M. Garrett whose term expired April 30, 2022.

Michelle C. Mattison, of Belleville, is the MSW student representative for the National Association of Social Workers Board of Directors. She is also the youth program developer and a yoga instructor for TRiO Upward Bound. Mrs. Mattison earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan. Additionally, she holds a Master of Business Administration in Finance from Tiffin University. Mrs. Mattison is reappointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring April 30, 2024.

Linnell McKenney, of Flint, is the founder for School of Champions, a co-ed summer basketball camp in Flint. Ms. McKenney is also the community relations director for the Sylvester Broome Empowerment Village, executive director for Salvation Army of Beecher, and a coach for Flint Monarchs Women’s Professional Organization. She received a bachelor’s degree in child psychology from Kentucky State University. Ms. McKenney is appointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring April 30, 2024. She succeeds Conell Loveless, Jr. whose term expired April 30, 2022.

Ira Newble, of Novi, is the majority owner of LeadHead Construction. Previously, he was the coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs, and head of player development for the Phoenix Suns. Mr. Newble was also a professional basketball player for the NBA and played for the San Antonio Spurs, Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Seattle Supersonics, and the Los Angeles Lakers. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology from Miami University of Ohio. Mr. Newble is appointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring April 30, 2024. He succeeds Felicia M. Maxwell whose term expired April 30, 2022.

Bryan Rief, of Northville, is the co-founder and chief executive officer of Planet Fitness Michigan Group. Mr. Rief is also a founding member and chair of the Michigan Fitness Club Association. He currently owns and operates 50 Planet Fitness locations across Michigan and is the manager of Planet Fitness Detroit DMA Marketing Co-op. Mr. Rief is appointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring April 30, 2024. He succeeds Ryan L. Reichel whose term expired April 30, 2022.

Bethany Thayer, of Huntington Woods is the director of the Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention at Henry Ford Health System. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in Exercise Science from Oakland University. Ms. Thayer is appointed for a term commencing December 1, 2022, and expiring April 30, 2024. She succeeds Barbara L. Payton whose term expired April 30, 2022.

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.

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