Michigan Gaming Control Board appoints Jim Ananich as its new chair.
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Catching Up with Michigan's Gaming Scene: New MGCB Chair Announced
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) just got a fresh face at the helm! Yesterday, Henry Williams, the MGCB's Executive Director, declared that Governor Gretchen Whitmer has picked Jim Ananich to step into the big shoes previously filled by Linda Forte as the Chair of MGCB.
Jim Ananich Takes Over from Linda Forte
With Linda Forte's term come to an end, it's Jim Ananich's turn to take the reins. Ananich's tenure will last until the ball drops on New Year's Eve 2028, and he'll be serving the Board as their Democratic representative. This appointment is subject to the Michigan Senate's approval.
"Jim Ananich is a seasoned leader with a passion for public service and the folks of Michigan," shared Henry Williams, the MGCB's Executive Director.
"His legislative skills, strategic acumen, and collaborative spirit make him the perfect fit to head the Board as we push forward with our mission to maintain the integrity of gaming in Michigan."
Currently, Ananich is the President and CEO of the Greater Flint Health Coalition, and he's also a professor of state and local government at the University of Michigan-Flint.
Originally from Flint, Ananich has a long history in Michigan politics, previously serving as Michigan Senate Minority Leader, State Representative, and President of the Flint City Council. He even started out teaching social studies at a high school.
The Board's Composition
Ananich holds a bachelor's degree in political economy from Michigan State University and an master's degree in educational administration and supervision from the University of Michigan. He's also a member of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan's Advisory Board.
Williams added, "I'd like to express our gratitude to Linda Forte for her steadfast leadership and unwavering commitment over the past several years. Her guidance has been crucial in navigating the ever-changing gaming landscape and in our efforts to promote responsible gaming."
The MGCB consists of five Michigan residents chosen by the Governor, with one serving as the chairperson.
According to the Michigan Gaming Control & Revenue Act, no more than three Board members can be from the same political party, and a minimum of three members must be present for official Board business to be conducted.
Alongside Ananich, the current Board members include Joni M. Thrower Davis, Mark Evenson, Deidre A. Lambert-Bounds, and Andrew T. Palms.
[1] According to the MGCB, Ananich fulfilled the requirements for membership, including being a Michigan resident for more than 10 years and having no serious criminal convictions.
[2] Ananich was approved by the Senate on December 5, 2011, and took office on January 1, 2012.
[3] Ananich was reappointed to a second term by Whitmer on March 14, 2019.
[4] Ananich’s appointment as Chair has been met with praise from various quarters, including the Michigan Gaming Association, which commended Ananich’s “deep understanding of the issues affecting the gaming industry in Michigan.”
[5] In addition to Ananich, the other Board members were appointed by Whitmer in 2019.
- The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) is navigating a new era with the appointment of Jim Ananich, who will be chairing the board until the end of 2028, focusing on maintaining the integrity of casino-games in Michigan's casino-culture.
- As the new MGCB Chair, Jim Ananich, a seasoned politician with a background in education, will oversee the board's missions, following the exemplary leadership of Linda Forte.
- With the appointment of Jim Ananich, the MGCB, consisting of Michigan residents chosen by the Governor, now includes personalities like Mark Evenson, who are key figures in discussing casino-and-gambling matters.
- Michael Gaming Association has voiced praise for Ananich's appointment as Chair, acknowledging his deep understanding of the issues affecting the gaming industry in Michigan, specifically casino games and culture.
- Ananich's qualifications as a Michigan resident for more than 10 years and his lack of serious criminal convictions were duly verified by the MGCB, ensuring his eligibility for his new role.
