Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a series of appointments to various positions within California's state agencies.

Rebecca Franklin, from Sacramento, has been appointed as the Chief Deputy Director of the California Housing Finance Agency. Franklin has served as the Director of Enterprise Risk Management and Compliance at the same agency since 2020. Her career includes roles such as Director of Innovation at the California State Compensation Insurance Fund and Enterprise Risk Manager at the California Public Employees’ Retirement System. She holds a Doctor of Education degree in Educational and Organizational Leadership from the University of the Pacific, among other qualifications. This position does not require Senate confirmation, with a compensation package set at $196,476. Franklin is registered without party preference.

Stephen Smith, from Gasquet, will take on the role of Warden at Pelican Bay State Prison, having served as Acting Warden since 2022. Smith's extensive experience includes various roles at Substance Abuse Training Facility over 25 years and service in the United States Army. His new role also does not require Senate confirmation and offers compensation of $187,884. Smith is affiliated with the Republican Party.

Stephanie Ruiz, based in Fresno, has been appointed to the San Joaquin River Conservancy. Ruiz has recently worked as a Climate Action Corps Fellow and held research assistant positions related to environmental science. She is involved with the Central Valley Latino Leadership Academy and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Sciences from California State University, Fresno. The position offers a per diem compensation of $75 and does not require Senate confirmation. Ruiz is identified as a Democrat.

These appointments reflect Governor Newsom's ongoing efforts to fill key roles within state agencies with experienced professionals.