Great Lakes Wire

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) began her second term in office by announcing her selections to lead state departments and state agencies for the next four years.

According to a news release from the governor’s office, Dan Eichinger was selected as acting director of the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE); Michelle Lange as director of the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget (DTMB); Adam Hollier as director of the Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA); Brian Hanna as executive director of the Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA); Brad Wieferich as acting director of the Department of Transportation (MDOT); Kathy Angerer as acting director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and Shannon Lott as acting director of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

“When we took office four years ago, we set out to make Michigan a home for opportunity for everyone. None of us could’ve anticipated the challenges thrown our way, but our team stood Michigan strong and never gave up doing what was right for Michiganders. For that, I’m grateful to the entire cabinet for their service during our first term," said Whitmer in the release. “With a new term, comes new opportunities and challenges. Today’s appointments and promotions will only build on the work that we’ve done over the last four years. We know it won’t be easy, but it will be gratifying when we build a state that enables every Michigander to succeed."

 “The work of everyone at EGLE can positively impact every citizen in this state and the natural resources we hold dear,” said incoming Acting EGLE Director Dan Eichinger. “I appreciate Governor Whitmer’s confidence in me to work with the talented and innovative team here as we build programs and systems that protect the wellbeing of our state and citizens today and into the future. I am personally grateful to Director Clark who is a positive, people-first leader and a first-class friend who has accomplished a great deal during her tenure.”

“As someone who has taken the call to serve my country in the armed services, I feel blessed to answer this call to serve my state and my fellow servicemembers at the same time,” said incoming

MVAA Director Adam Hollier said that he was honored to serve in a capacity that will serve veterans.  

“I am excited to make Michigan the most inviting and supportive state for service members and their families,” he said. “We want to make sure every person is able to receive the benefits they have earned.”

“I am excited for the opportunity to continue leading this team of experienced and dedicated professionals who work to help, connect, and solve the issues of the day,” said DTMB Director Michelle Lange. “Michigan's families, communities, and small businesses are counting on us to provide top-notch administrative services to state departments, ensuring they can keep getting the job done for all.”

CRA Executive Director Brian Hanna said she was ready to bring her expertise to the state’s cannabis industry.

“I am excited to serve the residents of Michigan in this role and am honored to work with Governor Whitmer during her next term,” said Hanna. “My commitment to the CRA, and its many stakeholders, is to stay laser-focused on establishing Michigan as the national model for cannabis regulations. I am lucky to lead such a fine team that works very hard to serve this legitimate industry and its consumers.”