Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan on Wednesday announced new cabinet members, including replacements for outgoing Commissioner of Education Heather Mueller and retiring Commissioner of Health Jan Malcolm.
Willie Jett II was appointed as the new commissioner of the Department of Eduation. He currently works as an instructor in the Education Administration Licensure program in the Department of Organizational Leadership, Policy, and Development at the University of Minnesota.
“Willie Jett understands the shared challenges and diverse needs of schools across our state,” said Gov.
Walz in a press release. “I look forward to working together to ensure every child in Minnesota receives a world-class education, no matter their race or zip code.”
The administration also named Dr. Brooke Cunningham as the new commissioner of the Department of Health. Dr. Cunningham currently is an assistant commissioner within the agency, working in the is the assistant commissioner of the Health Equity Bureau.
"Dr. Brooke Cunningham’s passion and expertise for health equity will help us build a more affordable, equitable health care system that serves all Minnesotans,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan in the press release.. “With her leadership, we will continue to address the health inequities underlying our state and work to ensure Minnesota remains one of the healthiest states in the nation.”
Ida Rukavina was nominated as Commissioner of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation. She is the executive director of the Range Association of Municipalities and Schools (RAMS).
