GRANHOLM - Granholm Names Paula D. Cunningham to Head Department of Labor and Economic Growth

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the appointment of Paula D. Cunningham to succeed David Hollister as director of the Department of Labor and Economic Growth (DLEG).

“Michigan’s economic strength is dependent on a highly educated, highly skilled workforce, and Paula Cunningham is the right person at the right time to ensure that our workforce is ready for the challenges of the 21st century,” Granholm said today. “Paula’s leadership in harnessing the best of what community colleges can do to train workers for the future is second to none, and we are thrilled to have her join our team.”

As director of DLEG, Cunningham will be responsible for furthering Granholm’s economic plan, which will include enhancing the state’s job training efforts. The department she will lead is already involved in workforce development programs, including Regional Skills Alliances and the MiOpportunity Partnership.

“Paula understands the important role workforce development will play in the continued success of our economic plan,” Granholm said. “She stands ready to reinforce the stark reality that higher education and workforce training are critical components to Michigan’s economic success.”

This will not be the first time Cunningham has been tapped by Granholm. Granholm appointed Cunningham to the Michigan Education Trust Board of Directors and the Lt. Governor’s Commission on Higher Education & Economic Growth. She was also appointed by former Governor John Engler to serve on the Council on Technical Excellence.

Cunningham holds a B.S. in Journalism and a M.S. in Labor/Industrial Relations from Michigan State University and has served as president of Lansing Community College since 2000. During her tenure at LCC, Cunningham served as vice president of the Planning and College Relations Division; executive director of Marketing, Community, and Board Relations; director of Professional Development; and assistant personnel director. She also served as a faculty member in the Careers Division.

Ms. Cunningham’s dedication to education and community has been recognized by several organizations, including the Lansing State Journal which voted her one of Lansing’s Outstanding Women (1999); the Commission on Spanish Speaking Affairs which presented her with its Outstanding Citizen Award (1996); and the YMCA which named her Honorary Achiever of the Year (2000).

Paula and her husband Darius have a son, Darius II, and a daughter, Dana.

This appointment is subject to Article V, Section 6 of the Michigan State Constitution of 1963. Cunningham stands confirmed unless disapproved by the Senate within 60 days.

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