Gov. Whitmer Makes Appointments to Michigan Women's Commission, Announces New Executive Director

LANSING – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to the Michigan Women's Commission and the selection of Cheryl Bergman to serve as the Commission's Executive Director. Ms. Bergman serves as an advisory board member and chair of the external relations subcommittee for the Potter Park Zoo in Ingham County. She earned her bachelor's degree in journalism from Michigan State University.
"When women in Michigan thrive, all Michiganders thrive. We must continue to work towards Michigan becoming a model state for equality," Whitmer said. "The Michigan Women's Commission addresses critical problems that women face every day while enabling women to develop skills and recognize their accomplishments and contributions towards our state. I'm confident that Cheryl has the experience and vision to lead this commission."
"I'm honored and thrilled to promote and celebrate the women of Michigan," Bergman said. "I'm dedicated to engaging in discussions with women all across our state about how they're able to fully participate in Gov. Whitmer's vision for Michigan's economy and way of life."
Originally from East Lansing, Bergman is currently the owner of the Bergman Inc fundraising consulting firm, and she is the senior advisor for Whitmer for Governor. Her clients have included Gov. Jennifer Granholm, Sen. Debbie Stabenow, The White House Project, Communities in Schools of Michigan, Michigan's Children and Children's Trust Fund. Prior to starting her own consulting business, Bergman served as the agency relations director for the St. Vincent and Sarah Fisher Center. She also served as the program administrator for the Michigan Political Leadership Program at Michigan State University.
The other appointees include JoAnn Chavez, Charity R. Dean, Whitney B. Gravelle, Muna Jondy and Geneva Williams.
The Michigan Women's Commission was created by statute in 1968. The Commission's duties include reviewing the status of women in Michigan, directing attention to critical problems confronting women, recommending ways of overcoming discrimination, enabling women to develop skills, conducting surveys, and recognizing women's accomplishments and contributions to Michigan.
Appointments to the Michigan Women's Commission are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
TAGLINE Visit Michigan.gov to see full bios for each of the appointed officials.