Indianapolis, January 3, 2026
Governor Mike Braun has announced significant appointments to various state boards and commissions, aiming to enhance governance in Indiana. The new appointees include members of the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, the Board of Trustees for Indiana University, and the re-established State Workforce Development Board. These changes reflect a focus on reliable utilities, workforce development, and supporting local businesses as they seek to grow and innovate.
Indianapolis, Indiana – On January 2, 2026, Governor Mike Braun announced significant appointments to various state boards and commissions, aligning with his administration’s goal of enhancing the efficiency of governance in Indiana. These strategic moves come at a time when local entrepreneurs and businesses seek a regulatory environment that encourages growth and innovation.
Choosing the right individuals for key positions can drive substantial economic progress. Governor Braun’s appointments prioritize not only effective governance but also the needs of Indiana’s citizens, focusing particularly on reliable utilities and workforce development. As small businesses make strides toward recovery and expansion, supportive leadership can provide the necessary momentum for sustained growth.
The latest appointments reflect a proactive approach to policy-making by the Governor’s office. Essential state institutions such as the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC), the Indiana University Board of Trustees, and the recently revitalized State Workforce Development Board play critical roles in supporting the economic ecosystem across the state.
Key Appointments
- Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC): Governor Braun appointed State Senator Andy Zay, Anthony Swinger, and Bob Deig as new commissioners. These appointments are part of the Governor’s commitment to ensuring reliable and affordable utilities for Hoosiers. The new commissioners will begin their terms on January 12, 2026.
- Indiana University Board of Trustees: The Governor appointed Marilee Springer, Dr. David Hormuth, and Isaac White to the Board of Trustees. Springer and Hormuth’s terms will expire on June 30, 2028, while White’s term will expire on June 30, 2026.
- State Workforce Development Board: Governor Braun signed an executive order to re-establish the State Workforce Development Board, which had been dissolved in July 2025. The board will serve as a central coordinating body to align employers, education and training providers, and state agencies around measurable workforce outcomes.
Background Context
Governor Mike Braun has been actively reshaping Indiana’s state boards and commissions to align with his administration’s priorities. In December 2025, he appointed three new commissioners to the IURC, emphasizing the need for affordable energy. In June 2025, he replaced three elected members of the Indiana University Board of Trustees with his own appointees, a move that has faced legal challenges. Additionally, in January 2025, he re-established the State Workforce Development Board to comply with federal law and improve workforce initiatives.
Implications
These appointments and actions reflect Governor Braun’s ongoing efforts to influence key state institutions and policies. The re-establishment of the State Workforce Development Board indicates a renewed focus on workforce development and economic growth in Indiana. This board will be crucial in bridging the gaps between education, training providers, and employers, enhancing the quality of the workforce and ultimately benefiting Indiana’s economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the recent appointments made by Governor Mike Braun?
Governor Mike Braun announced several appointments to various state boards and commissions, including the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC), the Indiana University Board of Trustees, and the re-establishment of the State Workforce Development Board.
Who are the new commissioners appointed to the IURC?
The new commissioners appointed to the IURC are State Senator Andy Zay, Anthony Swinger, and Bob Deig. Their terms will begin on January 12, 2026.
What is the role of the re-established State Workforce Development Board?
The re-established State Workforce Development Board will serve as a central coordinating body to align employers, education and training providers, and state agencies around measurable workforce outcomes, aiming to improve workforce development and economic growth in Indiana.
Why were the previous members of the Indiana University Board of Trustees replaced?
Governor Braun replaced the previous members of the Indiana University Board of Trustees with his own appointees as part of his administration’s efforts to reshape state institutions. This move has faced legal challenges and controversy.
Key Features of the Appointments
| Board/Commission | Appointees | Term Start Date | Term End Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) | State Senator Andy Zay, Anthony Swinger, Bob Deig | January 12, 2026 | Not specified |
| Indiana University Board of Trustees | Marilee Springer, Dr. David Hormuth, Isaac White | Immediate | June 30, 2028 (Springer, Hormuth); June 30, 2026 (White) |
| State Workforce Development Board | To be appointed | Not specified | Not specified |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
