FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 17, 1996

Lowry names Judith Merchant to Personnel Appeals Board

OLYMPIA - Gov. Mike Lowry today named state Energy Office Director Judith Merchant to the Washington State Personnel Appeals Board. The three-member board deliberates appeals from employees of both state agencies and higher education systems.

Merchant has been director of the Washington State Energy Office since June 1993. The office is being dismantled as a result of legislation passed this year and its duties will be taken up by other agencies. Prior to heading the Energy Office, Merchant was deputy director of the state Department of Fisheries. She also has worked in the Department of Social and Health Services as director of the divisions of Alcohol and Substance Abuse, Income Assistance and Intergovernmental Relations.

"Judith is a devoted public servant," Lowry said. "Her judgment and understanding of the merit system and personnel principles will benefit state government and its employees."

Merchant has served on numerous state and national executive boards and committees, including the Pacific Fisheries Management Council and the Timber, Fish and Wildlife Policy Committee, which she co-chaired. She is currently a member of the Executive Committee of the Western Interstate Energy Board and serves as chairwoman of the National Association of State Energy Officials.

Merchant earned her bachelor of arts degree from the University of Iowa, graduating summa cum laude, and is a member of Phi Beta Kappa. She holds a master's degree in public administration and a graduate degree in education. In addition to her professional activities, Merchant is a member of the board of directors of the Washington State Employees Credit Union and volunteers for the American Cancer Society. She also was a charter member of the advisory board of the St. Peter's Hospital Community Care Clinic in Olympia.

Merchant will serve a six-year term beginning July 1, replacing Art Wang, who resigned from the board. She will earn $66,803 annually.

For more information, contact the Governor's Communications Office at 360-753-6790.