June 02, 2014
The 15-member council was established in1992 and works to improve lives and strengthen communities by supporting healthy eating and physical activity.
"Good general health and fitness is an integral part of our reinvention of Michigan," said Snyder. "I look forward to the work of these individuals to help improve quality of life of our citizens."
Appointed:
Scott Przystas, of Grand Haven, is a teacher and coach with Grand Haven Area Public Schools, where he works to transform Peach Plains Elementary School into a health-oriented school. He serves as the head coach for middle school track and girls cross country. He has also had various coaching positions for girls varsity basketball. Przystas earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology with health promotion and coaching specializations, and a master’s degree in education, with a sport leadership and coaching concentration, both from Michigan State University. He will replace Terence Thomas.
Johnny Scott, of Coldwater, is the superintendent of Holt Public Schools, where he oversees 13 schools and more than 5,800 students. He previously served as the principal of Holt Junior High School. Scott earned a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in education administration, both from Florida A&M University. He also earned a Ph.D. in educational administration from Michigan State University. He will replace Cinthia VanderSloot.
Reappointed:
Paul Barbeau, of Midland, is the president and general manager of the Great Lakes Loons and ESPN 100.9 FM, where he leads all strategic planning and operations of the Single A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers and ESPN affiliate radio station. He previously served as vice president and general manager of the Spokane Indians Baseball Club. He serves as a board member for the Midland Community Center and Midland Area Chamber of Commerce. Barbeau earned a bachelor’s degree in history and government from Georgetown University and is currently enrolled in the MBA program at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.
Lila Lazarus, of Orchard Lake Village, is the president and CEO of Lila Productions. LLC. She reported on health and fitness on ABC, NBC and FOX before starting her own company devoted to health. Lazarus earned a bachelor’s degree in German and political science from Kalamazoo College, a master’s degree in political science from University of Freiburg, a master’s degree in political science from University of Massachusetts and a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Michigan.
Tom Minter, of Okemos, served as assistant to the director of the Michigan High School Athletic Association for more than 15 years. He was elected as the Meridian Township treasurer from 1977- 95 and as Ingham County commissioner from 1999-2005. He previously worked in the Ingham County Department of Drain Commissioner and Public Works. Minter has been a sports official and referee in high school and college since 1965. He is an Army veteran and earned an associate degree in business from Jackson Community College and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Michigan State University.
Jim Pivarnik, of East Lansing, is a professor of kinesiology and epidemiology at Michigan State University where he studies the role of physical activity and fitness on health and risk factors for chronic disease. Pivarnik earned a bachelor’s degree in recreational and park administration from Indiana University, a master’s degree in physical and health education from James Madison University, a Ph.D. in human performance from Indiana University, and a master’s in epidemiology from Michigan State University.
Anuja Rajendra, of Ann Arbor, is the founder and CEO of BollyFit, a global wellness movement that draws together a diverse and inclusive community. Started as a Michigan-based business, it has expanded to have an international presence. Rajendra holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial and operations engineering and an MBA in entrepreneurship and international relations, both from the University of Michigan.
Ron Winter, of Kalamazoo, is an official for the National Football League and a volunteer course rater for the Golf Association of Michigan. He previously served as the director of campus recreation activities and worked as a faculty member in the department of health, physical education and recreation, both at Western Michigan University. He served as a registered official of MHSAA, Big Ten Football official, official of the Rose Bowl, and referee of the Orange Bowl National Championship. He was named a professor emeritus at Western Michigan University in 2008. Winter earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education and a master’s degree in intramural administration, both from Michigan State University.
Members serve two-year terms expiring April 30, 2016. Their appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
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