October 27, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 27, 2010
LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today appointed Daniel Varner to the State Board of Education. The board has leadership and general supervision over all public education, including adult education and instructional programs in state institutions.
Varner succeeds Reginald Turner who resigned from the board effective October 26 to devote more time to his family and to work at his law firm.
"Daniel Varner brings to the State Board of Education great organizational, management and consensus-building skills," Granholm said. "His previous work with youth in Detroit will prove valuable in helping us toward our goal of providing all Michigan children with the world-class education and skills they need to compete in a global economy."
Varner, of Detroit, currently serves as program officer for the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Previously he was cofounder of Think Detroit, a nonprofit organization providing youth recreation services. Varner later led a merger that resulted in the creation of the Think Detroit Police Athletic League, one of the city's largest youth development agencies, and served as CEO.
He earned his law degree from the University of Michigan Law School and also holds a bachelor of arts degree in history from U-M.
Granholm praised Turner for his more than seven years of service on the State Board of Education.
"Reggie is a strong advocate for quality public education whose many contributions have helped move education forward in this state," Granholm said. "I'm grateful for his service on the board on behalf of Michigan's children."
Varner is appointed for a term expiring January 1, 2015. His appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Michigan Senate.
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