October 02, 2015
Friday, October 2, 2015
LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Rick Snyder today announced the appointments of Karen McPhee of Lowell, Eileen Weiser, of Ann Arbor, and Brian Whiston, of Okemos, to the Education Commission of the States.
The Education Commission of the States was created in 1965 to improve public education by facilitating the exchange of information, ideas, and experiences among state policymakers and education leaders. Forty-nine states, three territories and the District of Columbia constitute the commission's current membership. Each member state or territory is represented by seven commissioners -- the governor and six other individuals.
"I am grateful that these dedicated public servants will be representing Michigan on this important commission," Snyder said.
McPhee is currently Governor Rick Snyder’s senior education policy advisor. She previously served as superintendent of the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District, the sixth-largest in the state, supporting 55,000 students in 11 school districts, six charter schools and 18 parochial schools. McPhee has more than 30 years of education experience. She earned a bachelor’s degree in broadcast communications and public relations from Central Michigan University and a master’s degree in management from Aquinas College.
Weiser previously served as executive director of the McKinley Foundation and is a member of the State Board of Education. She also served on the National Assessment Governing Board. Weiser earned a bachelor's degree in music from Michigan State University and a master's degree in music from the University of Michigan, both in piano performance.
Whiston is currently state superintendent of schools. He previously served as superintendent of Dearborn Public Schools, the state’s third largest school district, and spent 10 years as director of government and community services for the Oakland County ISD. He also served as a local school board member for 17 years and held the position of President of the Michigan Parent Teacher Student Association. Whiston earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in political science from Wayne State University.
Appointees serve terms expiring at the pleasure of the Governor. Their appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
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