Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a slew of new appointments for various positions within state agencies. The positions cover a range of sectors, including business, environmental protection, education, and communications.

Claire Cullis of Carmichael has been appointed as the Deputy Secretary of Business and Consumer Relations at the California Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency. Previously, Cullis served as Chief of Staff to the First Partner in the Governor’s Office and has a diverse career history that includes founding her consulting firm and working with the United Nations Foundation. Her compensation for the role is set at $195,564.

Sophia Carrillo from Santa Monica has been named Assistant General Counsel of Enforcement at the California Environmental Protection Agency. Carrillo previously served as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Central District of California.

Iris “Marlene” De La O will take the role of Deputy Secretary of Public Policy at the California Environmental Protection Agency. Her past roles include leadership positions at Chemonics International and the Department of Housing.

Adam Ebrahim has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Ebrahim has served in various education-related roles and was previously the Senior Director of Policy and Continuous Improvement at the Commission.

Vanessa Ejike has been appointed to the State Board of Education. Ejike held roles such as National Partnerships Director for the High School Democrats of America and other youth leadership positions.

Niki Woodard will take the role of Deputy Director of Communications and External Affairs at the California Energy Commission after serving as the Senior Communications Officer at Resources Legacy Fund.

Lastly, Lee Herrick has been reappointed as California’s Poet Laureate. Herrick has been connected with Fresno City College and has had a longstanding involvement with various literary and writing programs.

All positions, except for that of Poet Laureate, do not require Senate confirmation.