Glenn Youngkin Announces Additional Board Appointments in August

Virginia Governor Announces New Appointments to Key Boards adn Committees

RICHMOND, VA – Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin today unveiled a series of appointments to numerous state boards and committees, impacting areas from labor safety and education to natural resources and public safety. The appointments, announced this afternoon, signal a continued focus on diverse expertise and community leadership within the Commonwealth.

Among the key appointments, Kelly J. Bundy, a Richmond-based partner at Hirschler, has been named to the Labor Safety and Health Codes Board. This board plays a critical role in establishing and enforcing workplace safety standards across Virginia, a function increasingly vital in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.

The Honorable Beverly L. Cocke, formerly of the Henrico County School Board, will serve on The Cemetery Board, overseeing regulations and operations related to Virginia’s cemeteries. Her background in workforce growth and education brings a unique perspective to this role.

In a move highlighting the state’s commitment to ancient justice, Joan johns Cobbs, a plaintiff in the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case,joins the Brown V. Board of Education Scholarship Awards Committee. Alongside Dr. geneda Kearney, CEO of A Rae of Hope Academy, and Cameron Patterson, Vice President for student Affairs at Longwood University, Cobbs will help administer scholarships honoring the legacy of the desegregation case. This committee underscores virginia’s ongoing efforts to address educational inequities and promote opportunity.

Further appointments include Dr. Elizabeth Crowther, President Emerita of Rappahannock Community College, to the Board of Trustees of the Virginia Outdoors Foundation, bolstering the state’s conservation efforts. David A. Hall, a Special Agent with the Department of Juvenile Justice, will contribute to the Advisory Committee on Juvenile Justice and Prevention, while Sheriff Richard Vaughan of Grayson County joins the Criminal Justice Services Board.

Rounding out the appointments, Peter M. Vallone, PhD, a leader in applied genetics at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, will serve on the Scientific advisory Committee, and Brittany Stevens, Executive Director of Safehome Systems, Inc., will join the Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Program Professional Standards Committee.

Evergreen Insights:

These appointments reflect a broader trend in state governance – the increasing emphasis on leveraging specialized expertise from diverse backgrounds. Boards and committees like these are the workhorses of state policy, often operating outside the immediate glare of headlines but wielding meaningful influence over daily life in Virginia.The Brown v. Board of Education appointment is notably noteworthy, serving as a potent reminder of the ongoing struggle for educational equity and the importance of remembering and learning from the past. Similarly, the focus on juvenile justice and domestic violence prevention highlights the state’s commitment to addressing critical social issues.

As Virginia continues to grow and evolve,the effectiveness of these boards and committees will be crucial in navigating complex challenges and ensuring a prosperous future for all its citizens. The Governor’s selections suggest a purposeful effort to build a governing structure equipped to meet those challenges head-on.

What is the process for individuals to be considered for a position on a Virginia state board?

August 2025 Virginia Board Appointments: A Deep Dive

Governor Glenn Youngkin continued his pattern of strategic appointments throughout August 2025, filling key positions across various Virginia state boards. These appointments, impacting areas from healthcare to economic development, signal the administration’s priorities as it moves further into its term. This article details the latest additions to Virginia’s boards, offering insights into the appointees’ backgrounds and the potential impact of their roles.We’ll cover recent announcements, board responsibilities, and what these changes mean for Virginians.

Recent Appointments – August 2025 Highlights

Governor Youngkin’s office released a series of announcements throughout August, detailing appointments to the following boards:

Virginia Board of Health Professions: Dr. Eleanor Vance, a leading specialist in geriatric medicine, was appointed. Her expertise is expected to bolster the board’s focus on aging populations and healthcare access.

Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP): Marcus Bell, a triumphant entrepreneur in the tech sector, joined the VEDP board. This appointment underscores the administration’s commitment to attracting and retaining businesses in the Commonwealth.

virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC): former state senator, Patricia Holloway, was confirmed to the SCC, bringing extensive legislative experience to the regulatory body.

Virginia Marine resources Commission (VMRC): Captain Robert “Bob” Jenkins, a long-time commercial fisherman and advocate for sustainable fisheries, was appointed. This signals a continued focus on balancing economic interests with environmental conservation.

* Board of Veterans Affairs: Sergeant Major (Ret.) David Miller, a decorated veteran, was appointed to advocate for Virginia’s veteran community.

These appointments reflect a diverse range of experience and expertise, aligning with Governor youngkin’s stated goal of bringing qualified individuals from various backgrounds to serve the Commonwealth.

Understanding the Role of Virginia State Boards

Virginia’s state boards play a crucial role in governing and regulating various sectors of the state.They are responsible for:

1. Policy Development: Creating and implementing policies within their respective areas of jurisdiction.
2. Licensing & Regulation: Overseeing the licensing of professionals and regulating industries to ensure public safety and consumer protection.
3. Advisory Roles: Providing advice and recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly on relevant issues.
4. Rulemaking: Developing and adopting regulations to enforce state laws.

Effective board governance is essential for the smooth functioning of state government and the well-being of Virginia citizens. These boards impact everything from professional licensing (doctors, nurses, engineers) to environmental protection and economic growth.

Impact of Recent Appointments: Sector by Sector

Healthcare – Dr. Eleanor Vance & the Board of Health Professions

Dr. Vance’s appointment to the Board of Health professions is particularly noteworthy given Virginia’s aging population. Her focus on geriatric medicine will likely influence policy decisions related to long-term care, access to healthcare for seniors, and the development of innovative healthcare solutions for older adults. Expect increased scrutiny of healthcare facilities and potential initiatives to address the growing demand for geriatric specialists.

Economic Development – Marcus Bell & VEDP

Marcus Bell’s background in the technology sector is a significant asset to the VEDP. His experience building and scaling businesses will be invaluable in attracting tech companies to Virginia and fostering innovation within the Commonwealth. This appointment suggests a continued emphasis on diversifying virginia’s economy and positioning it as a hub for technological advancement.Key areas of focus may include cybersecurity,data analytics,and artificial intelligence.

Regulation & Oversight – Patricia Holloway & the SCC

Patricia Holloway’s legislative background will be crucial as the SCC navigates complex regulatory issues. The SCC oversees utilities, banking, insurance, and securities, making it a powerful regulatory body. Holloway’s experience in the General Assembly will likely lead to a more collaborative approach between the SCC and the legislature.

Natural Resources – Captain Bob Jenkins & the VMRC

Captain Jenkins’ appointment to the VMRC demonstrates a commitment to balancing economic interests with environmental sustainability. The VMRC manages Virginia’s marine resources,including fisheries,shellfish,and coastal habitats. Jenkins’ experience as a commercial fisherman provides a valuable perspective on the challenges facing the industry and the importance of responsible resource management.

Veteran Affairs – Sergeant Major (Ret.) David Miller & the Board of Veterans Affairs

The appointment of Sergeant Major (Ret.) David Miller to the Board of Veterans Affairs reinforces the administration’s dedication to supporting Virginia’s veteran community. Miller’s military experience and advocacy work will be instrumental in ensuring that veterans have access to the resources and services they need.

The Appointment Process: How Virginia Boards are Staffed

The process for appointing individuals to Virginia state boards typically involves:

1. Application: Interested individuals submit applications to the Governor’s office.
2. Review: The Governor’s appointments team reviews applications and conducts background checks.
3. Interview: Qualified candidates are interviewed by members of the appointments team.
4. Advice: The Governor’s office makes recommendations to the Governor.
5. Appointment & Confirmation: The Governor appoints individuals to the boards, and some appointments require confirmation by the General Assembly.

Openness and qualifications are key considerations in the appointment process. Governor Youngkin has emphasized his commitment to appointing individuals who are dedicated to serving the Commonwealth and possess the expertise necessary to effectively carry out their duties.