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Michael D. Hayes

Chair

Commissioner Michael D. Hayes (I) of Midland was reappointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer effective March 5, 2021, and reappointed December 22, 2023.  Mr. Hayes was appointed chair for the Commission in Dec. 2023.

Mr. Hayes retired as president/CEO of the Midland Center for the Arts in 2015. He presently serves as vice president and secretary of the board of directors of the Michigan Baseball Foundation.

Mr. Hayes retired from the Dow Chemical Co. in 2008 as vice president of executive relations, where his responsibilities included managing community, business, and governmental relationships at the executive level for Dow's global headquarters in Midland. He joined the company in 1989 and rose through the ranks during his 20-year career. After retiring from Dow, he founded Main Street Consulting, specializing in community relations and economic development.

Prior to joining Dow, Mr. Hayes served four terms as a state representative in the Michigan Legislature, in addition to serving as the Midland County clerk. Mr. Hayes earned bachelor's and master's degrees at Central Michigan University. He currently serves on the International Authority for the Gordie Howe International Bridge by Gov. Snyder's appointment. He previously served on the board of directors of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and was chairman of the board of directors of the Midland Area Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. Hayes's commission will expire on Dec. 21, 2026.