July 20, 2006

LANSING – Lt. Governor John D. Cherry, Jr. was elected chairman of the National Lieutenant Governors Association (NLGA) during the organization’s annual meeting in Seattle, Washington, on Wednesday.
           
“I am honored to be chosen by my colleagues to serve as chairman of the National Lieutenant Governors Association,” said Cherry.  “Not only does the organization provide lieutenant governors with an opportunity to learn from one another, but we also promote critical policy and public service projects that benefit citizens across the country.”
           
In addition to his duties as lieutenant governor, Cherry was also asked by Governor Jennifer M. Granholm to chair the Lieutenant Governor’s Commission on Higher Education and Economic Growth.  After a year of study and discussion, the commission made a series of recommendations that have served as a critical component of Granholm’s comprehensive economic plan that is transforming the state’s economy.

The National Lieutenant Governors Association, organized in 1962, is the professional association for elected officials who are next in line of succession to the governors in the 50 states and five territorial jurisdictions of American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.  In 42 states and four territories, this elected official bears the title of lieutenant governor.  In three states and one territory, this official is the secretary of state.  In four states, the president of the senate is next in line of succession to the governor.

The NLGA provides members the opportunity for networking, meeting, fostering interstate cooperation, and promoting the effectiveness of the Office of Lieutenant Governor.

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