[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced appointments to the Governor’s Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota. The Governor’s Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota, established by Executive Order 19-38 , will coordinate state and private-sector partners’ efforts to work across sectors, including state government, non-profits, communities, tribes, businesses, and others, to ensure Minnesota is an age-friendly state.

“As Minnesota’s population ages, we must face the opportunities and challenges this demographic shift presents,” said Governor Walz. “The Governor’s Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota will help us fulfill our vision of building communities that are respectful, inclusive, and supportive of everyone’s needs at every age.”

“The elders in our lives are a critical part of the fabric of our communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “Whether they are grandparents or neighbors, mentors or volunteers, they are essential to our shared success. When we lift up the older adults in our communities, we lift up all Minnesotans.”

Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan appointed the following individuals:

Anthony Taylor – St. Paul, MN
Member
Effective: February 16, 2020
Term Expires: January 1, 2022
New Seat

Jocelyn Ancheta – St. Paul, MN
Member
Effective: February 16, 2020
Term Expires: January 1, 2022
New Seat

Chairman Faron Jackson, Sr.– Cass Lake, MN
Member
Effective: February 16, 2020
Term Expires: January 1, 2022
New Seat

Debra Howze – St. Paul, MN
Member
Effective: February 16, 2020
Term Expires: January 1, 2022
New Seat

Rajean Moone – Woodbury, MN
Member
Effective: February 16, 2020
Term Expires: January 1, 2022
New Seat

Dian Rae Lopez – Alexandria, MN
Member
Effective: February 16, 2020
Term Expires: January 1, 2022
New Seat

Governor Walz today also designated Sherrie Pugh as Chair. Sherrie Pugh has been designated to serve as the Minnesota Board on Aging’s representative on the Governor’s Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota. The Council’s membership also includes leaders representing nine state government entities.