FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 21, 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: State Police Retirement Board; Commission on Services to the Aging; Michigan Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education Advisory (MI-STEM) Council; Michigan Community Service Commission; Fire Safety Board; Michigan Board of Chiropractic; Michigan Board of Nursing; Correctional Officers’ Training Council; Public Health Advisory Council; Michigan Corn Marketing Program Committee; Agricultural Preservation Fund Board; Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards; Michigan Citizen-Community Emergency Response Coordinating Council; Barrier Free Design Board; Michigan Veterans' Facility Authority Board of Directors; Michigan Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee; and Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan.
State Police Retirement Board
Ret. Det. Sgt. Mitchell Stevens, of Gaylord, is a retired detective sergeant and methamphetamine regional coordinator for the Michigan State Police. Stevens holds a Bachelor of Arts in management and organizational development from Spring Arbor University and a Master of Business Administration from Lawrence Technological University. Ret. Det. Sgt. Mitchell Stevens will be reappointed to represent retirees for a term commencing January 1, 2027, and expiring December 31, 2029.
The Michigan State Police Retirement Board provides oversight of the Michigan State Police Retirement System.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Commission on Services to the Aging
Ayana King, of Wyandotte, is the founder and chief executive officer of Maximum Communications. King previously served as chairperson of the Senior Alliance Board of Directors and currently serves on the Wyandotte School Board. King holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications from the University of Michigan – Dearborn. Ayana King is appointed as Democrat for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring July 28, 2028. King succeeds James Bruce, who has resigned.
The Commission on Services to the Aging advises the Governor and Legislature on coordination and administration of state programs, changes in federal and state programs, and the nature and magnitude of aging priorities. The Commission also reviews and approves grants made by OSA and participates in development of the state plan and budget as required by the federal Older Americans Act of 1965, as amended.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education Advisory (MI-STEM) Council
Heidi Maltby-Skodack, of Traverse City, is an associate innovation and learning design specialist with Integrated Design Solutions (IDS). Maltby-Skodack also supports the Grand Traverse Local College Access Network (LCAN) for Traverse City Area Public Schools. Maltby-Skodack holds a Bachelor of Science in architecture from Lawrence Technological University, a Master of Science in career and technical education administration from Ferris State University, and an educational specialist leadership certificate from Oakland University. Heidi Maltby-Skodack will be reappointed to represent K-12 and postsecondary educational institutions involved with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics career preparation or education for a term commencing October 1, 2026, and expiring September 30, 2030.
Adam Zemke, of Detroit, is a partner at 1837 Partners and the president of Scooter Company. Zemke previously served as a State Representative for Michigan's 55th district in Washtenaw County from 2013 to 2018. Zemke has also served on the board of directors of New Detroit, Inc., the Michigan Afterschool Partnership, and the Michigan Education Corps Advisory Committee, and as a volunteer for the Society of Automotive Engineers Formula SAE Competition. Zemke holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in mechanical engineering from Michigan State University. Adam Zemke will be reappointed to represent nonprofit organizations that promote science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education for a term commencing October 1, 2026, and expiring September 30, 2030. Zemke will also be redesignated as vice chair for a term commencing October 1, 2026, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor.
Lee Graham, of Holly, is the executive director of the Operating Engineers 324 Labor Management Education Committee. Additionally, Graham serves as chairman of the Michigan Apprenticeship Steering Committee, Inc., on the advisory board for the Michigan Department of Transportation, and on the Michigan Workforce Development Board. Lee Graham will be reappointed to represent economic sectors of this state that rely upon a workforce with education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics for a term commencing October 1, 2026, and expiring September 30, 2030.
The MI-STEM Advisory Council is tasked with recommending measures to ensure effective communications, collaboration, and joint objectives among state departments and agencies with responsibilities relating to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Community Service Commission
Alisande Shrewsbury, of Okemos, is the chief of staff to the State Superintendent of Public Instruction at the Michigan Department of Education. Shrewsbury serves on the Meridian Township Planning Commission and the Michigan Youth in Government Advisory Board, and previously served on the Children Trust Michigan Board of Trustees. Shrewsbury holds a Bachelor of Arts in public policy and political science from Michigan State University. Alisande Shrewsbury is appointed as the designee of the superintendent of public instruction for a term commencing September 22, 2026, and expiring October 1, 2027. Shrewsbury succeeds Sue Carnell, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Community Service Commission strives to build a culture of service by providing vision and resources to strengthen communities through volunteerism. The Commission develops a three-year comprehensive national and community service plan for the state that shall be updated annually, oversees and submits the state's applications to AmeriCorps and other public and private funding sources, establishes policies and procedures for the use of federal funds, and develops initiatives to promote community service in coordination with existing programs.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Fire Safety Board
Esther Heerema, of Grand Rapids, is the executive director of Edison Christian Life Services. Heerema holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Calvin University and Master of Social Work from Western Michigan University. Esther Heerema is appointed as a representative of the nursing home industry for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring July 15, 2029. Heerema succeeds Richard Prestage, whose term has expired.
The State Fire Safety Board assists in the development of fire safety rules covering the construction, operation, and maintenance of schools, health care facilities, penal facilities, and state-owned and leased facilities. The Board assists in the operation and maintenance of public assembly and other buildings, oversight of delegation of fire inspection responsibilities, and serves as an administrative hearing body on decisions made by the Bureau of Fire Services.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Board of Chiropractic
Reem Samhat, of Northville, is the owner of NuSpine Chiropractic & Wellness Center. Samhat holds a Bachelor of Science in biology from Wayne State University and a Doctor of Chiropractic from the National University of Health Sciences. Reem Samhat is appointed as a chiropractor for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2027. Samhat succeeds Patricia Odette, who has resigned.
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.
Michigan Board of Nursing
Tarita Dooley, of Gowen, is the executive director of Priority Life Care. Dooley holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in health administration from the University of Phoenix. Tarita Dooley is appointed as a licensed practical nurse for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring June 30, 2027. Dooley succeeds LeQuay Brown, who has resigned.
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.
Correctional Officers’ Training Council
Amy Cahoon, of Holt, is the office director for the Michigan Civil Service Commission. Cahoon holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Michigan and a Master of Public Administration from Michigan State University. Amy Cahoon is reappointed as the designee of the State Personnel Director for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring March 29, 2029.
Bryan Morrison, of Saranac, is a warden at the Lakeland Correctional Facility. Morrison holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in occupational studies from Sienna Heights University. Bryan Morrison is appointed as a member representing the Department of Corrections for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring March 29, 2029. Morrison succeeds Sherman Campbell, whose term has expired.
The Correctional Officers’ Training Council establishes standards regarding training and education as prescribed in the Correctional Officer's Training Act. The Council develops, approves, and updates course content for the vocational certificate program, minimum requirements for recruitment and selection for new state corrections officers, and standards for the certification, recertification, and decertification of state corrections officers.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Public Health Advisory Council
Dr. Adenike Shoyinka, of Novi, is the chief medical health officer for Ingham County. Shoyinka practiced infectious disease consulting in Southeast Michigan at Henry Ford Allegiance Health System. Dr. Shoyinka holds a Bachelor of Medicine in surgery from the University of Ibadan and a Master of Public Health with a concentration in healthcare management and policy from the University of Michigan. Dr. Adenike Shoyinka will be appointed to represent local public health officials for a term commencing November 2, 2026, and expiring November 1, 2030. Dr. Shoyinka succeeds Denise Razo, whose term will expire.
Dr. Kaitlin Liroff, of Birmingham, is an infectious disease physician and assistant professor of clinical medicine at Hurley Medical Center. Dr. Liroff holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology and a Master of Public Health in population and health sciences from the University of Michigan and a Doctor of Medicine from the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine. Dr. Kaitlin Liroff will be appointed to represent physicians for a term commencing November 2, 2026, and expiring November 1, 2030. Dr. Liroff will succeed Sarju Shah, whose term will expire.
Janet Olszewski, of Bath, is retired, and was previously a senior fellow with the Michigan Health Endowment Fund. Olszewski also served as the director of the Michigan Department of Community Health under Governor Jennifer Granholm. Olszewski holds a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from Boston University and a Master of Social Work in administration and policy development from the University of Michigan. Janet Olszewski will be reappointed to represent the general public for a term commencing November 2, 2026, and expiring November 1, 2030.
LaShaya Darisaw, of Mount Morris, is a behavioral monitor and data analyst at Sparks Behavioral Services and the executive director if TNT Consulting and Contracting. Darisaw was previously the Flint operations director at Kolehouse Strategies. Darisaw holds an associate of arts, associate of social work, and an associate of applied science in sociology from Mott Commnity College and a Bachelor of Applied Science in sociology and Master of Public Administration from the University of Michigan. LaShaya Darisaw will be appointed to represent the general public for a term commencing November 2, 2026, and expiring November 1, 2030. Darisaw will succeed Eric Adelman, whose term will expire.
The Public Health Advisory Council was created within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services at the recommendation of the Public Health Advisory Commission. The Council will develop an action plan for implementing the recommendations of the Commission and is tasked with providing advice about emerging issues in public health, monitoring the effectiveness of Michigan's public health response system, and reviewing multiagency efforts to support collaboration and a unified approach on public health responses.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Corn Marketing Program Committee
Matthew Holysz, of Vicksburg, is the owner of J & H Farm. Holysz holds an associate of art and associate of applied science in business management from Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Matthew Holysz is reappointed to represent District 1 growers for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring March 5, 2029.
Stephanie Smith, of Waldron, is the co-owner of Creek Valley Farm. Smith was previously an eastern U.S. agronomy manager at Syngenta and an agronomic sales manager at 360 Yield Center. Smith holds a Bachelor of Arts in biology and environmental sciences from Olivet College and a Masters in crop and soil sciences from Michigan State University. Stephanie Smith is appointed to represent District 2 growers for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring March 5, 2029. Smith succeeds Ned Wyse, whose term has expired.
David Rupprecht, of Vassar, is the owner of A. Zwerk & Sons, Inc. David Rupprecht is reappointed to represent District 7 growers for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring March 5, 2029.
The Michigan Corn Marketing Program Committee enhances the economic position of Michigan corn growers by providing for the growth and expansion of the corn industry in Michigan through foreign and domestic market development, promotion, and research that will stimulate the demand for corn.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Agricultural Preservation Fund Board
Brian Bourdages, of Kalamazoo, is a Michigan farmland protection specialist at the American Farmland Trust. Bourdages also has a decade of experience as the Farmland Program Manager for the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy. Bourdages holds a Bachelor of Science in philosophy from Western Michigan University. Brian Bourdages is reappointed for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring June 10, 2030.
Gwyn Atkinson-Lewis, of North Street, is the co-owner of Lewis Farms, LLC, alongside her husband. Atkinson-Lewis was previously a certified court recorder for the 72nd District Court. Atkinson-Lewis holds a dual Bachelor of Arts in political theory and constitutional democracy and in international relations from Michigan State University. Gwyn Atkinson-Lewis is reappointed to represent agricultural interests for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring June 10, 2030.
Mark Zacharda, of Owosso, is the manager of Zacharda Farms II, LLC. Zacharda holds a Bachelor of Science in agriscience from Michigan State University and a certificate to practice teaching in secondary education from Saginaw Valley State University. Mark Zarcharda is appointed as a member at-large for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring June 10, 2030. Zacharda succeeds Mary Ann Heidemann, whose term has expired.
The Agricultural Fund Board was created to manage the distribution of grants to preserve farmland and help conserve Michigan's agricultural heritage.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards
Sheriff Scott Stephenson, of Barton City, is the Alcona County Sheriff and has served in the Alcona County Sheriff’s office since 1997. Sheriff Stephenson holds a Bachelor of Arts in parks, recreation and tourism resources with an emphasis in law enforcement and management from Michigan State University and is a graduate of the Kirtland Community College police academy. Sheriff Scott Stephenson will be appointed as an individual nominated by the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association for a term commencing January 1, 2027, and expiring December 31, 2030. Sheriff Stephenson will succeed Sheriff Gregory Zyburt, whose term will expire.
The Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) executes its statutory responsibility to promote public safety in Michigan by setting standards for selection, employment, licensing, license revocation, and funding in law enforcement and criminal justice, in both the public and private sectors.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Citizen-Community Emergency Response Coordinating Council (MCCERCC)
Karen Kudelko, of Canton, is the director of Federal Affairs in the Executive Office of the Governor. Kudelko holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and international relations from Brown University and a Juris Doctor from Yale Law School. Karen Kudelko is appointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2030. Kudelko fills a vacant seat.
The Michigan Citizen-Community Emergency Response Coordinating Council (MCCERCC) assists in developing, maintaining, implementing and supporting and promoting emergency response principles, strategies, and practices within governmental agencies and private sector organizations in Michigan.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Barrier Free Design Board
Randy Hargraves, of Taylor, is the chief building inspector for the City of Detroit. Hargraves holds a Bachelor of Science in military science and a Bachelor of Arts in social work from Michigan State University. Hargraves is appointed as a building inspector for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring October 31, 2028. Hargraves succeeds Sean Haskin, whose term has expired.
The Barrier Free Design Board has the responsibility to receive, review, and process requests for exceptions to the barrier free design specifications, and requires appropriate equivalent alternatives when exceptions are granted. The Board receives, processes, and makes recommendations for barrier free design rules.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Veterans' Facility Authority Board of Directors
Eric Wallis, of Orchard Lake, is a senior vice president and the system chief nurse executive at Henry Ford Health Systems. Wallis also serves as an adjunct associate dean for nursing practice at Michigan State University. Wallis holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Bowling Green State University, a Master of Science in health care administration from Central Michigan University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Texas Christian University. Wallis is appointed to represent members with professional knowledge, skill, or experience in long-term care, health care licensure or finance, or medicine for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring April 15, 2029. Wallis succeeds Amanda Shelast, who has resigned.
The Michigan Veterans’ Facility Authority Board of Directors governs the Michigan Veterans’ Facility Authority and consists of the Director of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and nine members appointed by the Governor who have professional knowledge, skill, or experience in long-term care, health care licensure or finance, or medicine.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee
Dr. Katie Axford, of Rockford, is a licensed pharmacist and professor at Ferris State University. Axford holds a Bachelor of Science in chemistry from Hope College, and both a Master of Public Health and Doctor of Pharmacy from Ferris State University. Katie Axford will be reappointed as a pharmacist whose business includes prescriptions from individuals who are eligible for Medicaid for a term commencing October 2, 2026, and expiring October 1, 2028.
Dr. John Hopper, of Ann Arbor, is the department of medicine system chair at Trinity Health Ann Arbor and Livingston Hospitals. Hopper holds a Bachelor of Science in cellular and molecular biology from the University of Michigan and Doctor of Medicine from Wayne State University. Dr. John Hopper will be appointed as a physician whose practice includes patients who are eligible for Medicaid for a term commencing October 2, 2026, and expiring October 1, 2028. Dr. Hopper will succeed Dr. Kaitlin Liroff, whose term will expire.
The Michigan Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee advises the Department of Health and Human Services on issues affecting prescription drug coverage for its various health care programs. The Committee shall recommend to the Department guidelines for prescription drugs covered in its various health care programs.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan
Steve Benavides, of Detroit, is a strategy manager at Ford Credit. Previously, Benavides was a brand advertising manager and marketing chief of staff at Cadillac and product marketing manager at General Motors. Benavides holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Michigan. Steve Benavides is appointed for a term commencing September 21, 2026, and expiring December 10, 2027. Benavides succeeds Jose Sanchez, who has resigned.
The Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan was created to develop a unified policy and plan of action to serve the needs of Michigan's Hispanic and Latino people. The law directs the Commission to advise the Governor, the Legislature, and the office concerning the coordination and administration of state programs serving the Hispanic and Latino population.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
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