Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 30, 2026 

Contact: press@michigan.gov 

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced appointments to the following boards and commissions: Michigan Veterans’ Trust Fund Board of Trustees; Michigan Board of Behavior Analysts;  Michigan Veterans’ Memorial Park Commission; Michigan Board of Physical Therapy; Michigan Board of Pharmacy; Michigan Board of Nursing; Michigan Dairy Market Program Committee; Michigan Appellate Defender Commission; Council on Climate Solutions; Elevator Safety Board; School Safety and Mental Health Commission; Michigan Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery; Michigan Board of Dentistry; Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice; Board of Law Examiners; Michigan Indigent Defense Commission; Governor’s Educator Advisory Council; Black Leadership Advisory Council; Governor’s Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect; Michigan Bean Commission; and Michigan Board of Chiropractic.  

Michigan Veterans’ Trust Fund Board of Trustees 

Ramiro “Ray” Lopez, of Harrison, is the former Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Michigan state commander and is a former electrician at the Ford Motor Company. Lopez holds an electrical certification from Henry Ford Community College. Ramiro Lopez is reappointed as an independent member who may or may not be a member of one or more congressionally chartered veteran’s organizations, but who shall not represent any congressionally chartered veteran’s organization of which they are a member for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring February 25, 2029.    

The Michigan Veterans’ Trust Fund was created in 1946 from $50 million in postwar reserve funds. In 1996, the Veterans’ Trust Fund was provided additional protection by being added to the State Constitution with voter approval of Proposal C. The Veterans’ Trust Fund was established to provide grants for the emergency needs of veterans. The Veterans’ Trust Fund, utilizing approximately $2 million in interest earnings from the trust, administers the Emergency Grant Program. Emergency Grants are available to honorably discharged war time service veterans and their dependents during times of unforeseen and short-term financial emergencies or hardships. Veterans’ Trust Fund grant policies and adjudication, county committee appointments and expenditure from trust earnings are governed by this board.   

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Michigan Board of Behavior Analysts 

Alexis Hassel, of Detroit, is an organizer at the Student Advocacy Center. Hassel was previously a behavior intervention assistant at the Lamphere Center. Hassel holds a Bachelor of Arts in interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in psychology from Lourdes University and a Master of Arts in industrial and organizational psychology from Grand Canyon University. Alexis Hassel is appointed as a general public member for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2029. Hassel succeeds Taylor Fasseel, whose term has expired. 

The Michigan Board of Behavior Analysts was created to assist the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs with the regulating and licensing of behavior analysts who utilize applied behavior analysis interventions that are based on scientific research and the direct observation and measurement of behavior and the environment.      

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Michigan Veterans’ Memorial Park Commission 

Floyd Crawford, of Baraga, is a Vietnam air veteran of the United States Marine Corps and an on-call elder nutritional program driver for the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. Floyd Crawford will be reappointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing December 19, 2026, and expiring December 18, 2029. 

Zachary Plotzke, of Washington, is a veteran of the Michigan Army National Guard and director of autonomy at Detroit Defense. Plotzke was previously a lead engineer at Booz Allen Hamilton. Plotzke holds a Bachelor of Science in engineering from Calvin College and a Master of Science in engineering from the University of Michigan. Zachary Plotzke is appointed as a general public member for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring December 18, 2028. Plotzke succeeds Andrew Cosgrove, whose term has expired. 

The Michigan Veterans’ Memorial Park Commission advises on the development, management, and maintenance of the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Park in Lansing, the operation of programs exclusive to the park, and the security services and enforcement of rules for the care and preservation of the park.  

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Michigan Board of Physical Therapy 

Kelsey Knie, of Canton, is an outpatient therapy administrator at Rivetus Rehabilitation. Knie was previously the director of clinical services at Oakland Home Care and a clinic director at ATI Physical Therapy. Knie holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Wayne State University and a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Tennessee State University. Kelsey Knie is appointed as a physical therapist for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2027. Knie succeeds Inder Thawani, who has resigned. 

The Michigan Board of Physical Therapy was originally formed with the enactment of Public Act 164 of 1965. The Public Health Code mandates certain responsibilities and duties for a health professional licensing board. Underlying all duties is the responsibility of the board to promote and protect the public's health, safety, and welfare. This responsibility is implemented by the Board by ascertaining minimal entry level competency of health practitioners. The Board also has the obligation to take disciplinary action against licensees who have adversely affected the public's health, safety, and welfare.   

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Michigan Board of Pharmacy 

Mitchell Nelson, of Grand Rapids, is the Michigan state director for Humane World for Animals. Nelson was previously the mid-Michigan regional director for U.S. Senator Gary Peters. Mitchell holds a Bachelor of Arts in literature from the University of California, Santa Cruz and a Juris Doctor from Southwestern Law School. Mitchell Nelson will be reappointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring June 30, 2030. 

The Michigan Board of Pharmacy was enacted as part of the Public Health Code to oversee the practice of pharmacy as a health service, the clinical application of which includes the encouragement of safety and efficacy in the prescribing, dispensing, administering and use of drugs and related articles for the prevention of illness and the maintenance and management of health. The Public Health Code mandates certain responsibilities and duties for a health professional licensing board including promoting and protecting the public's health, safety, and welfare.  

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Michigan Board of Nursing 

Carolyn Clemons, of Grand Blanc, is a registered nurse at Covenant Medical Center. Clemons holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Ferris State University and a Master of Science in nursing from Walden University. Carolyn Clemons is reappointed as a registered professional nurse with a baccalaureate degree engaged in nursing practice or nursing administration for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring June 30, 2029. 

The Michigan Board of Nursing was created to establish qualifications for nurse licensure, to establish standards for education and approve nurse education programs, develop, and implement criteria for assurance of continued competency, and take disciplinary action against licensees when the health, safety, and welfare of the public has been adversely affected.  

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Michigan Dairy Market Program Committee 

BJ Eisenga, Jr., of Tustin, is the manager and owner of Midget Mountain Dairy, LLC. BJ Eisenga will be reappointed as a member nominated by the Dairy Farmers of America for a term commencing January 1, 2027, and expiring December 31, 2029. 

Bryan Hull, of Fenwick, is the owner of Hulls Dairy Farm, LLC. Hull will be reappointed as a member nominated by the Dairy Farmers of America for a term commencing January 1, 2027, and expiring December 31, 2029. 

The Michigan Dairy Market Program Committee works in conjunction with the United Dairy Industry of Michigan to promote the sale of dairy products and to educate consumers, health professionals, and educators about the dairy industry and the nutritional benefits of Michigan's dairy products.  

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Michigan Appellate Defender Commission 

Aaron Suganuma, of Ann Arbor, is a program operations coordinator at the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office. Suganuma holds an associate degree in general studies from Washtenaw Community College and a Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work, both from Eastern Michigan University. Aaron Suganuma is appointed as a general public member to represent the interests of individuals who have been impacted by the youth or adult justice system for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring May 24, 2028.  Suganuma fills a vacant seat.  

The Michigan Appellate Defender Commission is responsible for the development of a system of indigent appellate defense services which shall include services provided by the office of the state appellate defender and locally appointed private counsel. The Commission will be responsible for the development of minimum standards to which all indigent criminal defense appellate services shall conform and will compile and keep current a statewide roster of attorneys eligible for and willing to accept appointment by an appropriate court to serve as criminal appellate defense counsel for indigents.  

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Council on Climate Solutions 

James Harrison, II, of Port Huron, is the director of renewable energy for the Utility Workers Union of America. Harrison serves as a trustee on the UWUA Power for America Training Trust Fund, and as a board member on the Michigan AFL-CIO Workforce Development Institute Board of Directors and the 21st Century Workforce Advisory Board. Harrison is a graduate of Wayne State University’s Labor School and Cornell’s National Labor Leadership Initiative. James Harrison is reappointed for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring February 3, 2030. 

Kara Cook, of Lansing, is the legislative director in the Executive Office of the Governor. Previously, Cook was the chief climate and energy strategist at the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. Cook holds a Bachelor of Science in political science from Grand Valley State University.  Kara Cook is appointed for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring February 3, 2030.  Cook succeeds Kevin Kolevar, whose term has expired. 

The Council on Climate Solutions was created by Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order 2020-182. The Council acts in an advisory capacity to Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to formulate and oversee the implementation of the MI Healthy Climate Plan, which will serve as the action plan for this state to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition toward economywide carbon neutrality.  

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Elevator Safety Board 

Steven Stark, of Chesterfield, is vice president and elevator journeyperson at Lardner Elevator Company. Stark attended Lake Shore High School. Steven Stark will be reappointed as an elevator owner or lessee for a term commencing July 23, 2026, and expiring July 22, 2030. 

The Elevator Safety Board promulgates rules and prepares examinations in relation to contractor licenses. The Board also conducts hearings to determine whether an elevator contractor license or certificate of competency or commission should be suspended or revoked.        

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

School Safety and Mental Health Commission 

David Ceci, of Lake Orion, is the executive director of emergency services academies and dean of public services at Oakland Community College. Ceci was previously the director of the Oakland Community College Police Academy and a sergeant at the Lake Angelus Police Department. Ceci holds a Bachelor of general studies from Oakland University and Master of Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. David Ceci is appointed as a member who has a background in law enforcement submitted by the Speaker of the House of Representatives for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring April 9, 2029. 

Julian Petzold, of Harrison Charter Township, is the president and owner of Lion Safety Consulting. Petzold was previously the principal of Trinity Lutheran School and executive director at Valley Lutheran High School. Petzold holds a Bachelor of Arts in early childhood education and psychology from Concordia University, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Oakland University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in educational leadership from Concordia University. Julian Petzold is appointed as as a member who has experience with special education submitted by the Speaker of the House of Representatives for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring April 9, 2027. 

The School Safety and Mental Health Commission was established by the Michigan legislature in 2024 and modified by executive order 2025-1. The commission shall provide recommendations to reduce youth suicides and strengthen the mental health of school-age children, adolescents, and their families through a comprehensive, statewide approach. The commission may also review and make recommendations related to school safety measures including but not limited to: the development and evaluation of school safety model practices, the review of the statewide school safety information policy and the emergency operations plans, the role of school safety liaisons, the emerging trends in school safety technology and the baseline safety requirements for schools or baseline hardening measures for new and existing schools.    

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Michigan Board Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery 

Dr. Shane Patterson, of Oakland Township, is the owner of The Center for Osteopathic Health Care. Dr. Patterson holds a Bachelor of Science in biology and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Kansas City University. Dr. Shane Patterson will be appointed as an osteopathic physician for a term commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2030. Dr. Patterson will succeed Dr. John Everett, who will have resigned. 

Dr. Ashley Malliett, of Commerce Township, is a clinical coordinator and assistant professor at Michigan State University’s Department of PA Medicine. Malliett holds a Bachelor of Science in biomedical sciences from Central Michigan University, a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Wayne State University, and a Doctor of Medical Sciences from the University of Lynchburg. Dr. Ashley Malliett is appointed as a physician’s assistant for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2027. Dr. Malliett succeeds Samantha Danek, whose term has expired. 

The Michigan Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery regulates the practice of osteopathic medicine and surgery in the State of Michigan; provided for the examination, licensing and registration of osteopathic physicians and surgeons; and provided for the discipline of offenders against the Act. Underlying all duties is the responsibility of the board to promote and protect the public's health, safety, and welfare. This responsibility is implemented by the Board by ascertaining minimal entry level competency of health practitioners and verifying continuing medical education during licensure. The Board also has the obligation to take disciplinary action against licensees who have adversely affected the public's health, safety, and welfare.  

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Michigan Board of Dentistry 

Dr. Ashish Patel, of Woodhaven, is the owner of Grosse Pointe Dental Care and the clinic dean for operations at the University of Detroit Mercy. Dr. Patel holds a Master of Science in operative dentistry from Indiana University and a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Detroit Mercy. Dr. Ashish Patel will be appointed as a dentist who is a dental school faculty member for a term commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring June 30, 2030. Dr. Patel will succeed Dr. Shakeel Niazi, whose term will expire. 

The Michigan Board of Dentistry was formed to regulate the practice of dentistry and dental hygiene, authorize dental assistants, and certify specialists in the fields of orthodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and oral pathology.      

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice 

Jose Burgos, of Ecorse, is a policy advocate at the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth. Burgos will be reappointed as a member having lived experience with the juvenile justice system, either as a juvenile under the jurisdiction of the juvenile system, or as a parent or guardian of someone under the jurisdiction of the juvenile justice system for a term commencing August 3, 2026, and expiring August 2, 2030. 

Cameron Clark, of Honor, is a family court administrator at the 13th Circuit Court, Family Division. Clark holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Michigan. Cameron Clark will be reappointed as a member representing public agencies concerned with delinquency prevention or treatment for a term commencing August 3, 2026, and expiring August 2, 2030. 

Claudnyse Holloman, of Waterford, is the chief executive officer at Voices for Children Advocacy Center. Holloman holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and political science from Clarke University and a Juris Doctor from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Claudnyse Holloman will be reappointed as a member representing private nonprofit organizations for a term commencing August 3, 2026, and expiring August 2, 2030. 

Sarah Rennie, of Berkley, is the director of advocacy at the Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness. Rennie holds Bachelor of Arts in English literature from Eastern Michigan University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Toledo College of Law. Sarah Rennie will be reappointed as a member representing victim or witness advocacy groups for a term commencing August 3, 2026, and expiring August 2, 2030. 

Jason Smith, of Ann Arbor, is the executive director of Michigan Center for Youth Justice. Smith holds a Bachelor of Arts in interdisciplinary studies from Michigan State University and a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan. Jason Smith will be reappointed as a member representing private nonprofit organizations for a term commencing August 3, 2026, and August 2, 2030. 

Carol Jackson, of Mount Pleasant, is a magistrate at the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe Tribal Court. Jackson received her educational training from 1994-1998 from Mid-Michigan and Bay Mills Community College and the Michigan Judicial Institute. Carol Jackson will be reappointed as a tribal representative or other individual with expertise in tribal law enforcement and juvenile justice in tribal communities for a term commencing August 3, 2026, and expiring August 2, 2030.  

The mission of the Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice is to advise the Governor on matters related to juvenile justice legislation and administration, mobilize communities to develop and implement comprehensive, data driven prevention services, and create a strategic plan that sets standards, determines priorities, and allocates funds for successful delinquency prevention and rehabilitative programs that promote stronger families, healthier youth, and safer communities.  

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Board of Law Examiners 

Michael Fawaz, of Royal Oak, is a commercial litigation and appeals attorney at Howard and Howard Attorneys, PLLC. Fawaz was previously an adjunct law professor at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. Fawaz holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Michigan and a Juris Doctor from the Michigan State University College of Law. Michael Fawaz will be reappointed as the nominee of the Michigan Supreme Court for a term commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring June 30, 2031. 

The Board of Law Examiners is responsible for investigating and examining all persons who initially apply for admission to the Michigan bar. The Board may adopt suitable regulations, subject to approval by the Supreme Court, concerning the performance of its functions and duties.  

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Michigan Indigent Defense Commission 

John Hays, of Jackson, is the president of Judicial Services Group and JSG Monitoring, and the president and founder of the National Association of Service Providers. Hays holds a Bachelor of Arts in business administration and management from Spring Arbor University. John Hays is appointed as a member submitted by the Speaker of the House of Representatives for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring April 1, 2029. Hays succeeds Thomas McMillen, whose term has expired. 

Robert VerHeulen, of Walker, is chair of the Kent County Road Commission, the John Ball Zoo Board of Directors, and is a member of the City of Walker Planning Commission. VerHeulen is a former state representative for the 74th House District. VerHeulen holds a Bachelor of Arts in economics from the University of Michigan and Juris Doctor from Wayne State University. Robert VerHeulen is appointed as a member submitted by the Speaker of the House of Representatives for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring April 1, 2029. 

Sofia Nelson, of Detroit, is a program director of the MDefenders Program and a lecturer at the University of Michigan Law School. Nelson previously served as a staff attorney at the Neighborhood Defender Service and as an assistant appellate defender at the State Appellate Defender Office. Nelson holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and women and gender studies from Tufts University and a Juris Doctor from Yale Law School. Sofia Nelson is appointed to as a member submitted by the State Bar of Michigan for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring April 1, 2030. Nelson succeeds David Jones, whose term has expired. 

James Samuels, of Mecosta, is the owner of Samuels Law Office. Samuels was previously the prosecuting attorney in Mecosta County. Samuels holds both an associate of applied science in legal assisting and a Bachelor of Science in business administration from Ferris State University, and a Juris Doctor from Cooley Law School. James Samuels is appointed as a member submitted by the Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring April 1, 2028. Samuels succeeds Glenn Simmington, who has resigned. 

The Michigan Indigent Defense Commission was created as a result of efforts to improve legal representation for indigent criminal defendants. The Commission develops and oversees the implementation, enforcement, and modification of minimum standards, rules, and procedures to ensure that indigent criminal defense services providing effective assistance of counsel are delivered to all indigent adults in this state consistent with the safeguards of the United States Constitution, the State Constitution of 1963, and with the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission Act.   

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Governor’s Educator Advisory Council 

Jeffrey Whittle, of Eastpointe, has been a paraprofessional with the Macomb Intermediate School District for nearly 30 years. Whittle also served as a member of the Michigan Department of Education “The Path Forward” Special Education Subcommittee. Whittle attended Macomb Community College and holds certificates in paraprofessional education from Macomb ISD. Jeffrey Whittle will be reappointed as support staff for a term commencing May 10, 2026, and expiring May 9, 2030. 

Marcus Walton, of Highland, is a special education teacher at Detroit Public Schools. Walton serves on the DFT231 Executive Board and the AFT Michigan Administrative Board. Walton holds a Bachelor of Science in special education from Wayne State University. Marcus Walton will be reappointed as a teacher for a term commencing May 10, 2026, and expiring May 9, 2030. 

Lisa Rivard, of East China, is a K-12 outreach specialist at Michigan State University and is a K-12 literacy consultant with the Macomb Intermediate School District. Rivard holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and business administration and a teaching certification from Michigan State University, an Education Specialist degree in with a specialization educational leadership from Oakland University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in instructional technology from Wayne State University. Lisa Rivard will be reappointed as a specialist for a term commencing May 10, 2026, and expiring May 9, 2030. 

The Governor’s Educator Advisory Council was created by Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order No. 2019-9. The Council will review and make recommendations regarding legislation relevant to this state’s public education system, identify and analyze issues impacting the effectiveness of Michigan’s public education system, identify best practices in public education and recommend corresponding changes and improvements to Michigan’s public education system, and provide other information or advice relevant to public education.   

These appointments are not subject to advice and consent of the Senate. 

Black Leadership Advisory Council 

Yvette Anderson, of Detroit, is the executive director of government relations at Wayne County Community College District, where she previously served as a campus vice president. Anderson holds a bachelor's degree in public administration, a master's degree in educational technology and instructional design, and a Doctor of Philosophy in educational leadership and policy studies from Wayne State University. Yvette Anderson is appointed to represent Black leadership in education for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2027. Anderson succeeds Christopher Burtley, who has resigned. 

The Black Leadership Advisory Council is housed in the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and will act in an advisory capacity to the Governor and develop, review, and recommend policies and actions designed to eradicate and prevent discrimination and racial inequity in this state. The Council will also work to identify state laws, or gaps in state law, that create or perpetuate inequities, collaborate to promote legislation and regulation that ensures equitable treatment of all Michiganders, serve as a resource for community groups, and promote the cultural arts in the Black community.    

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.    

Governor’s Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect 

Jessica Curry, of Laingsburg, is a stay-at-home mom and a former teacher at Laingsburg Community Schools. Curry is a former board member of Small Talk Children’s Advocacy Center and the founder of #MeTooMSU. Curry holds a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from Ferris State University and a Master of Education in educational leadership and administration from Grand Canyon University. Jessica Curry is appointed to represent adult former victims of child abuse and neglect for a term commencing April 30, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028. Curry succeeds Charles Ellias, whose term has expired. 

The Governor's Traffic Safety Advisory Commission shall identify traffic safety challenges and develop, promote, and implement strategies to address those challenges. The Commission shall develop comprehensive solutions to traffic safety challenges through partnerships with all levels of government and the private sector, while maximizing and coordinating the use of existing financial resources.    

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.    

Michigan Bean Commission 

Steve Ewald, of Unionville, is the president and owner of Ewald Farms, Inc. Ewald is the treasurer of the United States Dry Bean Council. Steve Ewald will be reappointed to represent member at large for a term commencing January 1, 2027, and expiring December 31, 2029. 

Ted Bauer, of Reese, is a co-owner and member of Laracha Farms. Bauer holds an associate degree in agribusiness from Michigan State University. Ted Bauer will be reappointed to represent District 2 growers for a term commencing January 1, 2027, and expiring December 31, 2029. 

The Michigan Bean Commission is headquartered in Frankenmuth, the heart of the growing area. The primary objectives of the Commission are research and promotion. There are more than 2,300 growers registered with the Michigan Bean Commission who are dedicated to bringing consumers the highest quality dry beans and are recognized worldwide as industry leaders.   

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

Michigan Board of Chiropractic 

Dr. Rachel Sullivant, of Davison, is the director of chiropractic at Insight Hospital Systems. Sullivant holds a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience from the University of Michigan and a Doctor of Chiropractic from Life Chiropractic College West. Dr. Rachel Sullivant will be appointed as a chiropractor for a term commencing January 1, 2027, and expiring December 31, 2030. Dr. Sullivant will succeed Dr. Milton Lynes, whose term will expire. 

The Michigan Board of Chiropractic was originally formed with the enactment of Public Act 145 of 1933. On September 30, 1978, this authority was transferred to the Public Health Code, Public Act 368 of 1978, as amended. The "practice of chiropractic" means that discipline within the healing arts that deals with the human nervous system and the musculoskeletal system and their interrelationship with other body systems. The Board also has the obligation to take disciplinary action against licensees who have adversely affected the public's health, safety, and welfare. The board works with the department to oversee the practice of approximately 2,863 chiropractors.  

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. 

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