Lansing, Mich — Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports pursuant to Executive Order No. 1992-05.

“We look forward to working with our new council members and welcome back those who have been reappointed” shared CEO and President Amy Ghannam, Michigan Fitness Foundation and the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports. “Together, we will continue our mission to inspire active lifestyles and healthy food choices through education, environmental change, community events, and policy leadership across Michigan.”

Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports

Kattie M. Carpenter, of Wayland, is an adjunct professor and the head women’s triathlon coach at Calvin University. She is also a USA Triathlon Level I Certified coach, personal trainer and triathlon coach at Beyond Tri, and a former ELA and physical education teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Cornerstone University.  Ms. Carpenter succeeds Edwin Kornoelje whose term expired.

Armond R. Harris, of Detroit, is the co-owner of Jabs Gym Eastern Market and the owner of POC Real Estate Investment Group, LLC. He is a former football player for Wayne State University and a member of the Eastern Market Partnership Board of Directors. Mr. Harris succeeds Brigitte LaPointe whose term expired.

Florine Mark, of Farmington Hills, is an ambassador and the former president and CEO of The WW International. She is the board chair for The Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit and a member of the Detroit Regional Chamber Board of Directors Executive Committee. Ms. Mark is reappointed.

Tony Moreno, Ph.D., of Okemos, is a professor of biomechanics, athlete development, and fitness management at Eastern Michigan University. Dr. Moreno is also an instructor and consultant with the Michigan High School Athletic Association and the owner of Atletika USA, LLC. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from California State University, a Master of Science in Physical Education from the University of Nevada, and a Ph.D. in Kinesiology from Michigan State University. Dr. Moreno succeeds Dexter Mason whose term expired.

Mary E. Patay, Ph.D., of Mackinac Island, is the recreation director for the City of Mackinac Island. She is also a soccer, girls basketball, and golf coach for Mackinac Island Public Schools. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Psychology from Miami University, a Master of Science in Physical Education from the University of North Dakota, and a Ph.D. in Sport and Exercise Science from the University of Northern Colorado. Dr. Patay is reappointed. Governor Whitmer has also designated Dr. Patay to continue serving as Chair of the Council.

Todd Turner, of Berkley, is the co-founder and owner of Team GUTS, Inc. Team GUTS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of the special needs community. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from University of Michigan. Mr. Turner is reappointed.

The Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports was established in 1992 to improve the health of, and increase physical activity among, Michigan residents. The Council is comprised of representatives from across the state, appointed by the current governor to two-year terms. The Council’s vision is that the state and its communities embrace and support physical activity and health education. In conjunction with the Michigan Fitness Foundation Board of Directors, they play a vital role in the promotion of health, wellness, and physical activity throughout the state of Michigan.

All terms commence May 1, 2021 and expire April 30, 2023. Council appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

For more about the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports, visit michiganfitness.org.