Governor John Engler today appointed a total of eight individuals to the Michigan Women's Commission, which works to improve the quality of life for women in the state.

"Each of these women has an extensive knowledge of the issues facing Michigan women. Their perspectives will prove a valuable asset to the Commission," said Governor Engler.

Anne Norlander, chair of the Michigan Women's Commission, added, "It is a great honor to welcome each of these women to the Michigan Women's Commission. We are thrilled to have such an experienced team that is dedicated to the advancement of women's issues in this state."

Judi Clark, of Rockwood, is founder of the Samantha Reid Foundation. She will be replacing Carolyn Spencer, of Northville, who has resigned. Clark has been appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring July 15, 2004.

Lynda Cosgrove, of Traverse City, is a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch. She will be replacing Elizabeth Pezzetti, of Bloomfield Hills, who has resigned. Cosgrove has been appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring July 15, 2003.

M. Judith Garland, of Mt. Pleasant, is president of Mid-Michigan Industries, Inc. She has been re-appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring July 15, 2004.

Mandeep (Mandy) Grewal, of Ann Arbor, is a doctoral student at the Urban Technological and Environmental Planning Program at the University of Michigan. She will be replacing Melanie Myers, of Lathrup Village, who has resigned. Grewal has been appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring July 15, 2003.

Kaye Grubba, of Owosso, is register of deeds in Shiawassee County. She has been re-appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring July 15, 2004.

Judi Schwalbach, of Escanaba, is owner of the Victorian Gift House. She has been re-appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring July 15, 2004.

Ramirra J. Stackhouse, of Orchard Lake, is a homemaker. She will be replacing Myrah Kirkwood, of Oxford, whose term has expired. Stackhouse has been appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring July 15, 2004.

Julie Ann Stevens, of Saginaw, is program director of the family business program, located within the school of business at Saginaw Valley State University. She will be replacing Martha Thuemmel, of Bad Axe, whose term has expired. Stevens has been appointed to represent the general public for a term expiring July 15, 2003.