Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced that Sue Carnell will serve as her top advisor on education policy.

“Education is Michigan’s number one priority, and Sue has spent her life making children her number one priority,” Granholm said.  “I value her ideas and her dedication to the education system and know with her expertise and leadership we will build and improve Michigan schools, ensuring our children are receiving the best education possible.”

Carnell, of Wayne, Michigan, most recently served as the Director of the Office of School Excellence with the Michigan Department of Education.  While there, she led and directed early childhood and parenting curriculum and professional development.

Previously, Carnell served as the Director of the Office of Community Services, also with the Michigan Department of Education.  From 1992 to 1998, she was principal of Shelters Elementary School in Southgate.  She started her career as a special education teacher for Inkster Public Schools.

Carnell holds a master’s degree in special education from Eastern Michigan University and received her bachelor’s degree in special education from the University of Michigan.