When Governor Bredesen took office in January 2003, he invited the Economic Council on Women to submit names of qualified women to be considered for vacancies on state boards and commissions. The Council has established a process whereby capable, skilled female candidates are recommended for administrative board and commission posts.

Early success in this Council initiative included the Governor’s appointments of Sue Braly to the Land Surveyors Examiner Board and Elaina Spann to the Home Improvement Commission Licensing Board. Both women are the first females ever appointed to either board, fulfilling the mission of the Council in introducing strong female candidates to the application process so that qualifications are recognized regardless of gender.

More women have followed Board members Braly’s and Spann’s leadership in public service; recent appointees include

• Tommie Morton-Young, TN Judicial Council
• Janna Herbison, Suicide Prevention Advisory Council