Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a series of appointments to various positions within California's state government. Kimberly Rutledge has been named Director of the Department of Rehabilitation. She has held the role of Deputy Director of Legislation and Communications at the department since 2022. Her previous roles include positions at the California Department of Social Services and United Domestic Workers of America, AFSCME Local 3930.

Gloria Earl has been appointed as Deputy Secretary of Administrative Services at the California Health and Human Services Agency. Earl is the Principal and Founder at Endurement, LLC, and an Executive Project Manager at the Department of Social Services.

David Swanson Hollinger will serve as Chief Deputy Director, Children and Families Programs at the Department of Social Services. He has experience as a consultant and held several roles within Ventura County Human Services Agency.

Dr. Hernando Garzon is appointed Chief Medical Officer at Emergency Medical Services Authority, having served as Interim Chief Medical Officer since 2021.

Jon Lamirault takes on the role of Deputy Director of the California African American Museum. Previously, he was Operations Manager there and held roles with Target Corp.

Lindsay Buckley becomes Director of Communications at the California Air Resources Board after serving as Deputy Executive Director for Strategic Planning and Media at the California Energy Commission.

Marvin Southard joins the Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission. He previously worked as a Professor of Practice at USC and directed mental health services in Los Angeles County.

Michael Bernick also joins this commission. His background includes special counsel work with Duane Morris LLP and previous directorial roles in state employment development.

Karen Larsen is appointed to this commission too, bringing her experience from Steinberg Institute where she serves as CEO.

Pamela Baer will serve on this commission with her extensive experience in brand strategy through Markitlink.

Gayle Miller has been appointed to the Milton Marks “Little Hoover” Commission on California State Government Organization and Economy. She currently works with Brookfield Asset Management as Managing Director for Transition, Institutional Relationships, and Investments.

These appointments reflect Governor Newsom's continued efforts to fill key roles within his administration with experienced professionals from various fields across California's public service sectors.