LANSING — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Wednesday appointed Bridget N. Summers of Baraga to the Northern Michigan University Board of Trustees.

“I’m focused on improving education for all Michigan students. Bridget Summers shares that focus,” Whitmer said in a news release. “Bridget brings experience and expertise to Northern Michigan University and I’m excited to work with the board towards providing exemplary educational opportunities to Northern Michigan University.”

Summers is the vice president of the Baraga County Chamber of Commerce and the director of the village of L’Anse Downtown Development Association. She is the former director of settlements and global operation at Chicago Mercantile Exchange Inc.

Summers was appointed to succeed the late Travis Weber for a term expiring Dec. 31, 2026.

“Education is empowering because it can be the canvas for meaningful debates surrounding a myriad of topics, critical thinking that leads to innovative and creativity solutions, or civic dialogue that influences policies, decisions and humanity,” Summers said in a news release. “I am looking forward to working with my fellow colleagues as we further Northern Michigan University’s mission to provide a high-quality education to people from all walks of life.”

The Northern Michigan University Board of Trustees has general supervision of the institution and the control and direction of all expenditures from the institution’s funds as prescribed by law. The board may hire and evaluate the university president, who reports directly to the board.

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Michigan Senate.