January 10, 2005

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced recent appointments to the Michigan Freedom Trail Commission: 

Daina R. Berry, Ph.D. of East Lansing, assistant professor of history at Michigan State University.  Dr. Berry is appointed to represent members from the academic community knowledgeable in African-American history for a term expiring February 1, 2008.  She succeeds Harry Reed whose term has expired.

Velma L. Clay, Ph.D. of Battle Creek, former director of the Equal Employment Opportunity Office at the Hart Dole Inouye Battle Creek Federal Center.   Dr. Clay is appointed to represent members at large for a term expiring February 1, 2007.  She succeeds Christy Coleman whose term has expired.

Norman McRae, Ph.D. of Detroit, former director of fine arts and social studies for Detroit Public Schools.  Dr. McRae is appointed to represent members from the academic community knowledgeable in African-American history for a term expiring February 1, 2008.  He succeeds DeWitt Dykes whose term has expired.

The Michigan Freedom Trail Commission is responsible for encouraging, coordinating, and supporting work that makes the history of the Underground Railroad a vital part of Michigan’s civic discourse, its educational resources, and its cultural tourism product.

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