Saint Paul – Governor Tim Pawlenty today announced the appointment of Michael Fosnot and Pat Wright, and the reappointment of Barb Chromy, Roberta Cich, and Hulet Sherry to the Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC).

Chromy, of Austin, is reappointed as a parent member of the SILC to a three-year term that expires January 2, 2012.

Cich, of Duluth, is the Duluth branch office director of the Center for Independent Living of Northeastern Minnesota. She is the current chair of the SILC and is reappointed as a representative of centers for independent living to a three year term that expires January 2, 2012.

Fosnot, of Hibbing, is a disabled veteran and Hibbing Community College student. He is appointed as a public member to a three-year term that expires January 2, 2012. Fosnot replaces Mary Pennington on the council.

Sherry, of Rochester, is reappointed as an advocate member of the SILC to a three-year term that expires January 3, 2012.

Wright, of Minneapolis, is a teacher for St. Paul Public Schools. She holds bachelor of science and master of education degrees from the University of Minnesota. She is a member of the National Alliance for Mental Illness. Wright is appointed as an advocate member to a three-year term that expires January 3, 2012 and replaces Larry Lura on the council.

The Statewide Independent Living Council advises state agencies on issues related to independent living for persons with disabilities. The Council consists of 21 members, including 16 appointed by the Governor.