September 11, 2013
Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2013
LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Rick Snyder today announced the appointment of Rebecca Parten, of Dearborn, to the Michigan Statewide Independent Living Council.
The 15-member council ensures statewide representation of citizens with disabilities.
“Rebecca is a dedicated advocate for the disability community and I thank her for her willingness to serve on the council,” Snyder said.
Parten is a social media intern for the Michigan Disability Rights Coalition, the project lead for Escobar Syndrome Outreach, and is a public relations and conference planning volunteer for Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita Support Inc. Previously, she interned for the chief executive of Arbor Hospice, the development and alumni relations office at the University of Michigan School of Social Work and for career services at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. In 2008, she founded the Alliance for Disability Awareness at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, where she held three major campuswide events, participated in Special Olympics campaigns, and held various fundraisers. Parten holds a bachelor’s degree in public communications and culture studies from the University of Michigan-Dearborn, and a master’s of social work from the University of Michigan. She will represent advocates of, and for, individuals with disabilities and replaces Sheila Ashcraft.
Parten will serve the remainder of a three-year term expiring Dec. 31, 2014 and her appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the state Senate.
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