LANSING, MI - On June 5, 2025, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced appointments to the following boards and commissions: Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Health, and Sports; Human Trafficking Commission; Commission on Services to the Aging; Mental Health Diversion Council; Manufactured Housing Commission; Residential Builders' and Maintenance and Alteration Contractors' Board; Michigan Board of Examiners in Mortuary Science; Michigan Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons; Michigan Veteran's Facility Authority Board of Directors; Michigan Workforce Development Board; Michigan Early Stage Venture Investment Corporation Board of Directors; Michigan Employment Relations Commission; Michigan Board of Nursing Home Administrators; MEDC Executive Committee; Michigan Municipal Services Authority Board- Executive Committee; Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan; Michigan Humanities Council; Rural Development Fund Board; Michigan Board of Architects; the State Construction Code Commission; and Michigan Indigent Defense Commission. 

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

Bethany Thayer, of Huntington Woods, is the director of the Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention at Henry Ford Health System. Thayer holds a Bachelor of Science in dietetics from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in exercise science from Oakland University. Bethany Thayer is reappointed for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2026.  

Dr. Lashanda Jackson, of Davison, is the chief executive officer of Healthy Just Feels Right. Jackson is a certified mental health and wellness specialist and holds a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice from Ferris State University, a Master of Arts in criminal justice from Michigan State University, and a dual Masters and Ph.D. focused on the correlation of mental health and nutrition from Michigan State University. Lashanda Jackson is reappointed for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2026. 

Linnell McKenney, of Flint, is the founder of School of Champions, a co-ed summer basketball camp in Flint. McKenney is executive director for the Salvation Army Life Center in Flint. McKenney holds a Bachelor of Arts in child psychology from Kentucky State University. Linell McKenney is reappointed for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2026.  

Ira Newble, of Novi, is the majority owner of LeadHead Construction. Previously, Newble was 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. Newble holds a Bachelor of Arts in kinesiology from Miami University of Ohio. Ira Newble is reappointed for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2026.  

Mary Patay, of Mackinac Island, is the recreation director for the City of Mackinac Island and a writer for the Michigan Fitness Foundation. Patay holds a Bachelor of Arts in business psychology from Miami University of Ohio, a Master of Science in physical fitness from the University of North Dakota, and a Ph.D. in sport and exercise science from the University of Northern Colorado. Mary Patay is reappointed for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2027.  

Raul Velasco, of Grand Rapids, is the founder and owner of Alejandro Photography and a partner at GR Outside, working with the goal of improving equitable access to outdoor activities. Velasco holds a Bachelor of Science in international business from Aquinas College. Raul Velasco is reappointed for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2027.  

Joseph Dimambro, of Haslett, is the executive director of the Playmakers Fitness Foundation, a non-profit based in Okemos. Dimambro holds a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology from Michigan State University. Joseph Dimambro is reappointed for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2027.  

Anthony Moreno, of Okemos, is a professor of biomechanics and sport performance at Eastern Michigan University. Moreno holds a Bachelor of Science in physical education from California State University, a Master of Science in physical education from the University of Nevada, and a Doctor of Philosophy in kinesiology from Michigan State University. Anthony Moreno is reappointed for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2027.  

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.  

Human Trafficking Commission 

Jeffrey Getting, of Kalamazoo, is the Kalamazoo County prosecuting attorney. Getting holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice and sociology from Western Michigan University and a Juris Doctor from the Indiana University School of Law. Jeffrey Getting is reappointed as a county prosecuting attorney for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring March 1, 2027.  

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. 

Commission on Services to the Aging 

William Bupp, of DeWitt, is a retired high school principal and docent at the Michigan Hall of Justice Learning Center. Bupp holds a Bachelor of Science in education and a Master of Arts in journalism from Central Michigan University. William Bupp will be reappointed as a Democrat for a term commencing July 29, 2025, and expiring July 28, 2028. 

Jimmy Bruce, of Escanaba, is a member of the Executive Council of the Michigan AARP and a retired consultant. Bruce holds a Bachelor of Science in physical education and master’s degrees in political science and biology from Northern Michigan University. Jimmy Bruce will be reappointed as a Democrat for a term commencing July 29, 2025, and expiring July 28, 2028. 

Jennifer Lepard, of Royal Oak, is president and chief executive officer at the Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Chapter. Lepard holds a Bachelor of Arts in government from the University of Maryland University College. Jennifer Lepard will be reappointed as a Democrat for a term commencing July 29, 2025, and expiring July 28, 2028. 

Guillermo Lopez, of Lansing, is a member of the Lansing School Board of Education and the Lansing Charter Review Commission. Lopez holds a certificate of completion from the Community Leadership Development Academy at Lansing Community College. Guillermo Lopez will be reappointed as a Democrat for a term commencing July 29, 2025, and expiring July 28, 2028. 

Robert Schlueter, of Leland, is the former executive director of the Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Michigan. Schlueter holds a Bachelor of Science in behavioral science and a Bachelor of Philosophy in religion and philosophy from Grand Valley State University. Robert Schlueter will be reappointed for a term commencing July 29, 2025, and expiring July 28, 2028. 

The Commission on Services to the Aging advises the Governor and Legislature on coordination and administration of state programs, changes in federal and state programs, and the nature and magnitude of aging priorities. The Commission also reviews and approves grants made by OSA and participates in development of the state plan and budget as required by the federal Older Americans Act of 1965, as amended.      

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

Mental Health Diversion Council 

Jessica Mainprize-Hajek is a criminal defense attorney at The Law Office of Jessica R. Mainprize-Hajek PLLC.  Mainprize-Hajek holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Oakland University and a Juris Doctor from the Michigan State University School of Law. Jessica Mainprize-Hajek is appointed as an attorney with experience representing individuals with mental illness for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring January 30, 2029. Mainprize-Hajek succeeds James Samuels, whose term has expired. 

Jayla Irons, of Lansing, is a policy assistant at the Executive Office Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Irons holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Michigan State University. Jayla Irons is appointed as the designee of the Lieutenant Governor for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring at the pleasure of the governor. Jayla Irons succeeds Morgan Stephens, who has resigned. 

The Mental Health Diversion Council was created in the Michigan Department of Community Health to advise and assist in the implementation of the Diversion Action Plan and provide recommendations for statutory, contractual or procedural changes to improve diversion.    

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

Manufactured Housing Commission 

Paul Jarvis, of South Lyon, is a senior vice president at Sun Communities. Jarvis holds a Bachelor of Arts in management from Florida State University. Paul Jarvis is appointed as an operator of a licensed manufactured housing park for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring May 9, 2028. Jarvis succeeds Veronica D’Hondt, whose term has expired. 

The Manufactured Housing Commission is responsible for establishing uniform policy relating to all phases of manufactured housing, business, manufactured housing parks, and seasonal manufactured housing parks. The Commission has the legal authority to approve local governmental ordinances which would regulate manufactured housing, grant variances to the Manufactured Housing Commission Rules, approve licenses for manufactured home installer/servicers and retailers, and impose penalties on persons who have violated the Mobile Home Commission Act or Rules. 

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

Residential Builders' and Maintenance and Alteration Contractors' Board 

Zeak DeWyse, of Engadine, is the owner of DeWyse Construction, Inc. DeWyse is a journeyman carpenter and licensed residential builder. Zeak DeWyse is appointed as a licensed residential builder for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring March 31, 2027. DeWyse succeeds Troy Young, who has resigned. 

The Michigan Residential Builders’ and Maintenance and Alteration Contractors’ Board was created to license and regulate persons engaged in the construction of a residential structure or combination residential and commercial structure, or persons who undertake the repair, alteration, addition, subtraction, or improvement of a residential structure or combination residential and commercial structure for compensation other than wages for personal labor.  

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

Michigan Board of Examiners in Mortuary Science 

Rick Bowerman, of Munising, is the director of Bowerman Funeral Home. Bowerman holds an associate of science in mortuary science from Worsham College and a Bachelor of Arts in business from Lakeland College. Rick Bowerman will be reappointed as a funeral director for a term commencing July 1, 2025, and expiring June 30, 2029. 

The Michigan Board of Examiners in Mortuary Science was created to license and regulate the practice of mortuary science and funeral establishments in Michigan. The Board works with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to oversee the practice of mortuary science licensees, residential trainees, and funeral homes.   

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

Michigan Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons 

Andrew Gutman, of Novi, is the president of Farbman Group. Gutman holds a Bachelor of Arts in accounting from Michigan State University. Andrew Gutman will be reappointed to represent real estate brokers and salespersons for a term commencing July 1, 2025, and expiring June 30, 2029. 

The Michigan Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons oversees the practice of real estate salespersons, associate real estate brokers, real estate brokers, and branch offices.    

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

Michigan Veteran’s Facility Authority Board of Directors 

Shawn Turner, of East Lansing, is the general manager of WKAR Public Media and a professor of strategic communications at Michigan State University. Turner served 21 years in the U.S. Marines and has held several federal government positions including deputy White House press secretary for national security, director of communication for U.S. National Intelligence, and deputy press secretary for foreign affairs for the National Security Council. Turner holds a Bachelor of Arts in speech communication from Texas State University and a Master of Arts in crisis communication from George Mason University. Shawn Turner is reappointed as the nominee of the Senate Majority Leader for a term commencing May 22, 2025, and expiring April 15, 2029. 

The Michigan Veterans’ Facility Authority Board of Directors governs the Michigan Veterans’ Facility Authority and consists of the Director of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and eight members appointed by the Governor who have professional knowledge, skill, or experience in long-term care, health care licensure or finance, or medicine.      

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

Michigan Workforce Development Board 

Yasmeen Jasey, of Detroit, is the Michigan regional president of Citizens Bank. Yasmeen holds a Business Honors degree in finance and economics and a Master of Business Administration in strategic management from the University of Windsor. Yasmeen Jasey is appointed to represent business for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring May 29, 2029. Jasey succeeds Rishie Modi, whose term has expired. 

The Michigan Workforce Development Board is responsible for the development and continuous improvement of the workforce development system in Michigan. The Board acts as an advisory body to assist the Governor with the development, implementation, and modification of Michigan's four-year state plan pursuant to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and advance the Governor's 60 by 30 goal of helping 60% of our workforce achieve a post-secondary degree or certification by 2030.   

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

Michigan Early Stage Venture Investment Corporation Board of Directors 

Jeffrey Rinvelt, of Ann Arbor, is a principal at Renaissance Venture Capital Fund. Rinvelt previously served as the director of Ardesta, a network infrastructure company which gives support to nanotechnology startups. Rinvelt holds a Bachelor of Arts in finance from Western Michigan University and is a former member of Western Michigan University’s Board of Trustees. Rinvelt also currently serves as board president for the Michigan Venture Capital Association. Jeffrey Rinvelt will be reappointed as a member recommended by a statewide organization exempt from taxation under section 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) of the internal revenue code, the members of which represent more than 50% of the venture capital companies in this state and that promotes venture capital investing, for a term commencing June 14, 2025, and expiring June 13, 2028. 

The Michigan Early Stage Venture Investment Corporation Board of Directors works to promote a healthy economic climate by fostering job creation, retention, and expansion through the promotion of investment in venture capital businesses specializing in early stage and seed investments. The Venture Michigan Fund invests only in venture capital companies that have a significant presence in Michigan and focuses on companies that will invest in Michigan-based, start-up companies that are engaged in research, technology, and new product development.   

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

Michigan Employment Relations Commission 

William Young, of Spring Lake, is an attorney and has served as a Michigan Employment Relations Commissioner since 2021. William was previously a shareholder at White, Schneider, Young & Chiodini, P.C. and spent nearly 28 years with the firm representing unions and teachers, among other clients. In retirement, William volunteers with Ingham County Meals on Wheels, is a member of the Spring Lake Village Historical Commission, and serves as a fellow with the Michigan State Bar Foundation. Young holds a Bachelor of Science in social science from Michigan State University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School. William Young will be reappointed to represent Democrats for a term commencing July 1, 2025, and expiring June 30, 2028. 

The Michigan Employment Relations Commission (MERC) resolves labor disputes involving public and private sector employees by appointing mediators, arbitrators, and fact finders, conducting union representation elections, determining appropriate bargaining units, and adjudicating unfair labor practice cases. The Commission, supported by the staff of the Bureau of Employment Relations, administers The Public Employment Relations Act (PERA), The Labor Relations and Mediation Act (LMA), and The Compulsory Arbitration Act (312).    

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

Michigan Board of Nursing Home Administrators

Greta Laho, of Westland, was previously a financial customer associate at Fidelity Investments. Prior, Laho was a family service advisor at the Archdiocese of Detroit-Holy Sepulcher Cemetery, a medical receptionist at IHA Hematology and Oncology, and a corporate retail sales manager at Hallmark. Laho holds a Bachelor of Science in communications from Middle Tennessee State University. Greta Laho is appointed to represent the general public for a term commencing July 1, 2025, and expiring June 30, 2028. Laho succeeds Rita Williams, whose term has expired. 

The Michigan Board of Nursing Home Administrators was created to license nursing home administrators who plan, organize, direct, and control the total operation of nursing homes on behalf of the governing board or owner of a nursing home. The Board promotes and protects the public's health, safety, and welfare by ascertaining minimal entry-level competency of nursing home administrators.  

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

MEDC Executive Committee 

Christina Grossi, of Okemos, is a partner at Honigman, LLP. Previously, Grossi served as chief legal counsel in the Executive Office of Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Grossi also held roles of increasing responsibility over a decade of service in the Michigan Attorney General’s office, including serving as chief deputy attorney general. Grossi holds a Bachelor of Arts in political economy from Michigan State University and a Juris Doctor from the Thomas Cooley Law School. Christina Grossi is appointed to represent businesses for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring April 5, 2026. Grossi succeeds Awenate Cobbina, who has resigned. 

The MEDC Executive Committee provides policy direction and guidance to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation regarding economic development program and initiatives, approves the MEDC corporate budget, and appoints the chief executive officer who administers all programs, funds, personnel, and all other administrative transactions of the MEDC. The MEDC Executive Committee supports the MEDC through governance, support to enable results-based action, and advocacy for the organization and economic development in Michigan.  

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

Michigan Municipal Services Authority Board- Executive Committee 

Sheryl Mitchell Theriot, of Detroit, is the director of external affairs for the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments. Theriot is a former policy analyst for the Detroit City Council, city administrator for the City of Lathrup Village, and city manager for the City of Albion. Theriot holds a Doctor of Business Administration from Lawrence Technological University, a Master of Science in public administration from Central Michigan University, and a Bachelor of Science in political science from the University of Michigan – Dearborn. Sheryl Mitchell Theriot is appointed for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring May 10, 2027. Theriot succeeds Donna Cagemi, who has resigned. 

The Authority is a public body corporate created in 2012 through an Interlocal Agreement between the cities of Grand Rapids and Livonia. The purpose of this Agreement is to create and empower the Authority to exercise the common powers, privileges, and authority of the parties to engage in cooperative activities with other public agencies consistent with this agreement. The Authority is a "virtual" city authorized to do anything a Michigan municipal corporation can do but it has no geographic boundaries.    

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

Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan 

Evelyn Esparza-Gonzalez, of Kentwood, is the vice president of finance and administration at Habitat for Humanity of Kent County. Esparza-Gonzales was previously the president of the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan. Evelyn holds a Master of Accountancy from Davenport University and a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting and general business from Grand Valley State University. Evelyn Esparza-Gonzalez is appointed for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring December 10, 2027. Evelyn Esparza-Gonzalez succeeds Jesse Bernal, who has resigned. 

The Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan was created to develop a unified policy and plan of action to serve the needs of Michigan's Hispanic and Latino people. The law directs the Commission to advise the Governor, the Legislature, and the office concerning the coordination and administration of state programs serving the Hispanic and Latino population.  

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

Michigan Humanities Council 

Monique Marks, of Detroit, is the president and chief executive officer of Franklin Wright Settlements, Inc. Marks holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and African studies and a Master of Social Work from Wayne State University. Monique Marks is reappointed for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring December 31, 2027. 

The Michigan Humanities Council, as one of 56 state (and territories) humanities councils in the country, was founded in 1974 as a result of federal legislation. Funded in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities, Michigan Humanities also actively seeks grants, sponsorships, and individual donations to further support cultural programming for Michigan communities. The Council’s mission is to connect people and communities by fostering and supporting quality cultural programs.  

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

Rural Development Fund Board 

Erin Kricher, of Traverse City, is the vice president of project community affairs and stakeholder relations at Invenergy. Kricher holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Business Administration from Northwood University. Erin Kricher is reappointed to represent Democrats and residents of the lower peninsula for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring December 31, 2028. 

The Rural Development Fund Board, housed in the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, has oversight of the Rural Development Fund. The Board is charged with advising the Department on how to distribute tax revenue collected from mines to improve and strengthen local communities.  

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

Michigan Board of Architects 

Zachary Funk, of Plymouth, is a design architect at CBRE Group. Funk holds a Bachelor of Science in architecture from the University of Detroit Mercy and a Master of Science in architecture from Lawrence Technological University. Zachary Funk is appointed as an architect for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring March 30, 2029. Funk succeeds Annette Gleason, whose term has expired. 

The Michigan Board of Architects was created under Article 20 of Public Act 299 of 1980, as amended, to regulate the practice of architecture, which is defined as "professional services, such as consultation, investigation, evaluation, planning, design, review of materials and completed phases of work in construction, alteration or repair in connection with a public or private structure, building, equipment, works or project, when the professional service requires the application of a principle of architecture or architectural design."  

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

State Construction Code Commission 

Shanna Draheim, of East Lansing, is the policy director for the Michigan Municipal League. Draheim holds a Bachelor of Arts in public policy from Michigan State University and a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in environmental policy from Indiana University. Shanna Draheim is reappointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring January 31, 2028. 

Ramsey Saymuah, of Dearborn, is a project manager at CDPA Architects and Planners. Saymuah holds a Bachelor of Science in construction management from Eastern Michigan University and a Master of Business Administration from Wayne State University. Ramsey Saymuah is appointed as a building contractor for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring January 31, 2027. Saymuah succeeds David Tomlinson, 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. 

Michigan Indigent Defense Commission 

Charissa Huang, of Grand Rapids, is a shareholder and attorney at Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge. Huang holds a Bachelor of Music in piano performance and a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Michigan, and a Juris Doctorate from Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law. Charissa serves as a board member for the Grand Rapid Public Schools Foundation and was a former board member of the Grand Rapids Pride Center. Charissa Huang is appointed as the nominee of the Senate Majority Leader for a term commencing June 5, 2025, and expiring April 1, 2029. Huang succeeds Debra Kubitskey, whose term has expired. 

The Michigan Indigent Defense Commission was created as a result of efforts to improve legal representation for indigent criminal defendants. The Commission develops and oversees the implementation, enforcement, and modification of minimum standards, rules, and procedures to ensure that indigent criminal defense services providing effective assistance of counsel are delivered to all indigent adults in this state consistent with the safeguards of the United States Constitution, the State Constitution of 1963, and with the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission Act.  

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