LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the appointment of Ann Jousma-Miller as director of the governor's northern Michigan office.  Miller will begin her duties April 20.

"Ann's expertise and incredible work ethic will be critical as we work to create jobs, educate our citizens, and protect our families," Granholm said.  "Her knowledge of issues that are important to northern Lower and Upper Peninsula residents will help her to serve the area with great enthusiasm.  We are excited to have Ann join our team."

The governor's northern Michigan office is located in Marquette and serves as the governor's liaison for the areas of the Upper Peninsula and the northern Lower Peninsula.

"I am honored to serve Governor Granholm as her liaison to northern lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula," Jousma-Miller said.  "I look forward to guiding the people to the best of my ability in this tough economic climate."

Jousma-Miller brings a wealth of experience in public service and community involvement to the post.  Ann is currently the executive director of the Delta County Economic Development Alliance where she has led efforts to promote economic development through the attraction, retention and expansion of business and industry in the county.  She has also served as Michigan Farm Bureau regional representative for the Upper Peninsula and as the special liaison to the Upper Peninsula to former state Speaker of the House Curtis Hertel.  In addition, Ann served as legislative assistant to four state representatives from the Upper Peninsula and to former State Senator Don Koivisto for his final four-year term.

Jousma-Miller is active in the Upper Peninsula community, having served on the Michigan Wisconsin Timber Producers board of directors, several agriculture boards, and as a Governor Granholm appointee on the Michigan Agriculture Commission.  Jousma-Miller and her husband, Ralph, reside in Delta County and have six grown children.

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