Additional changes include new staff promotions and hires within the executive office  

LANSING, MI - On February 14, 2025, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced additional promotions and hires within the Executive Office of the Governor (EOG).   

“Kara’s been on my team since day one, and I am excited to welcome her back in this critical role as we keep working with our partners in the legislature to get things done for the people of Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. “I’m also excited to formally promote Zoe and Emma and look forward to all the good work ahead. Together, we’re going to deliver another balanced, bipartisan budget, keep lowering costs for Michigan families, and create more good-paying jobs. Let’s go.” 

“I am thrilled to welcome and continue working with these dedicated public servants who help us get things done and make a difference for every Michigander,” said Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “We have an ambitious agenda to lower costs, grow Michigan’s economy, and help more Michigan families achieve health and wealth right here in our state. I know these individuals are the right people for the job.” 

Executive Office Staff 

Governor Whitmer announced promotions and hires within the legislative affairs, and policy divisions within the EOG. 

LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS 

Kara Cook, Director of Legislative Affairs

Kara Cook has returned to the Executive Office of the Governor as the Director of Legislative Affairs. Cook most recently served as the State of Michigan's Chief Climate and Energy Strategist after holding the role of the Chief of Staff at the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. A day one member of the Whitmer Administration, Cook was a key member of the executive office policy team and a Senior Advisor on energy, natural resources, and environmental protection. In these roles, she helped deliver a bold policy agenda, managed special projects including the effort to restart Palisades, and more.  

“Kara is an incredible advocate and proven leader who brings a dedication and relentless work ethic to every challenge she's taken on," said House Minority Leader Ranjeev Puri. "I have no doubt she will continue to make a positive impact as the Legislative Director in the Executive Office of the Governor." 

POLICY 

Zoe Ahlstrom, Policy Director

Zoe Ahlstrom has been promoted from interim to policy director. She was hired as a policy advisor in 2023 and became Deputy Policy Director in 2024. In the past, she worked with Consumers Energy and was Deputy Chief of Staff for Sen. David Knezek and an aide for Reps. Terry Brown and Frank Liberati.

Emma Young, Education Policy Advisor

Emma Young has been promoted to education policy advisor. She has been with the executive office for over three and a half years, previously serving as a policy analyst. Prior to this she worked as an issue specialist in the Governor’s Constituent Services Division. Young earned a bachelor’s degree in social relations and policy and international relations with a minor in Arabic from Michigan State University.