Governor Ryan Announces Board Appointments

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today announced the appointment of Cynthia A. Panayotovich to the Chicago Transit Authority Board. The governor also announced several other board appointments.

"Cindy has been a valued contributor throughout her career in state government especially as part of our economic development team at the Department of Commerce and Community Affairs," Governor Ryan said. "I know she will bring the same dedication and enthusiasm to her work for the CTA."

Panayotovich, 52, of Lansing, has held many positions in her 33 years working in state government. She also currently serves as a Council Member of the Illinois Women's Business Ownership Council.

"I am excited to be bringing my many years of government experience to the CTA Board and continuing that public service," Panayotovich said. "I especially look forward to applying my DCCA experience in infrastructure and economic development to my leadership post on the CTA."

Governor Ryan made several other appointments to Boards and Commissions today:

To the Illinois Liquor Control Commission:

• Steve Schnorf, 58, of Springfield, an appointment for a term ending February 1, 2008. The position, effective January 1, 2003, is paid $28,924.00 and fills the position formerly held by Myrna Pedersen. Schnorf will retire as the Director of the Department of Central Management Services and formerly served as Director of the Bureau of the Budget under Governors Edgar and Ryan. The appointment requires Senate confirmation.

To the Illinois Labor Relations Board; State Panel:

• Thaddeus S. Lechowicz, 63, of Chicago, a temporary appointment for a term ending January 27, 2003. The position, effective December 3, 2002, is paid $79,779.00 and fills the position formerly held by Sandra Tristano. Lechowicz is a Cook County Commissioner and a former member of the Illinois General Assembly. The appointment requires Senate confirmation.

To the State Board of Education:

• Joyce E. Karon, 63, of Barrington, an appointment ending January 14, 2009. The position, formerly held by Marilyn McConachie, is effective January 8, 2003 is reimbursed for expenses. Karon is a professor at Northern Illinois University and is a consultant for both in school and public libraries. The appointment requires Senate confirmation.
• Gregory N. Kazarian, 40, of Lake Forest, an appointment ending January 14, 2009. The position, formerly held by Connie Rogers, is effective January 8, 2003 and reimbursed for expenses. Kazarian is a partner at the law firm of Pedersen & Houpt, P.C. The appointment requires Senate Confirmation.

Panayotovich will serve a seven-year term effective December 2, 2002. She will be paid $25,000 a year and will fill the position of Alan Drazek whose term expired September 1, 2002.