Saint Paul -- Governor Tim Pawlenty today announced the appointment of Susan Larson to the Governor's Residence Council.

Larson, of St. Paul, is executive director of the Swedish Council of America in Minneapolis and previously was executive director for the Center of Scandinavian Studies at the University of Minnesota. Larson replaces Alexandra Fisher as a public member for a four-year term that expires on January 7, 2008.

The Governor's Residence Council develops and implements an overall restoration plan for the governor's residence and surrounding grounds and solicits contributions to restore, maintain, improve and furnish the building. The council consists of 19 members, including 13 appointed by the Governor.