Governor’s Statement on Confirmations of Superior and Family Court Nominees

Dover, DE – The Delaware Senate today confirmed the nomination of Abigail Legrow to serve as Judge on the Superior court, filling the vacancy that was created by the retirement of the Honorable Fred S. Silverman as well as Kim DeBonte to serve as Commissioner of the Delaware Family Court, filling the vacancy that was created as a result of the retirement of the Honorable Pamela Holloway. The Governor issued this statement following the confirmations:

“Abigail Legrow will be a great addition to the Superior Court where I know she will continue to be an outstanding public servant to Delawareans. I appreciate the Senate showing their support and confirming her.”

“Kim DeBonte is a strong and dedicated advocate for Delaware families.  I thank the members of the Senate for showing their support and confirming such an experienced attorney to the Family Court.”

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Senate Confirms Jim Mosley as Safety & Homeland Security Secretary

Dover, DE – The Delaware Senate today confirmed the nomination of Jim Mosely to serve as Secretary of the Delaware Department of Safety and Homeland Security, succeeding Lew Schiliro, who announced his plans to retire earlier this month.Mosley

“With over 40 years of experience, Jim has established a distinguished career of public service in both the military and law enforcement sectors,” said Governor Markell. “He has the knowledge, passion and fortitude to lead the department as we continue to strengthen public safety throughout Delaware. I appreciate the Senate’s consideration and support.”

Though he most recently served as Wilmington’s Public Safety director, Mosley has also worked with local, state, federal and international agencies in a variety of code and law enforcement environments including overt and covert operations. During his career as an officer in the Military Police Corps, he served throughout the United States, Cuba, Honduras and Europe as a law enforcement officer and liaison between U.S. and Allied Country Law Enforcement and Security personnel. While assigned to NATO Headquarters in Belgium, he coordinated the security for the Supreme Allied Commander and commanded his personal security team.

“I’m honored and grateful for the opportunity to join the team of dedicated men and women who protect our state,” Mosley said. “I thank Governor Markell and members of the Senate for their vote of confidence and assure them I will work hard every day to maintain the level of professionalism and commitment our citizens deserve.”

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Senate Confirms Dr. Steven Godowsky as Delaware’s Education Secretary

Dover, DE – The Delaware Senate today confirmed the nomination of Dr. Steven Godowsky to serve as Secretary of the Delaware Department of Education, succeeding Mark Murphy, who ended his tenure last month.

“Steve is a leader with the experience and respect necessary to build on the tremendous progress we’ve made over the past seven years,” said Governor Markell. “There is still more work to be done, but today’s vote by the Senate underscores their confidence in Steve’s ability to advance our efforts. I look forward to our work together and I appreciate the Senate’s consideration and support.”

Godowsky led the New Castle County Vo-Tech District for eight years beginning in 2003. That followed two decades working in the district as an assistant principal at Delcastle Tech, principal at Hodgson Vo-Tech, and assistant superintendent. During his time as superintendent, he served a term as President of the Delaware Chief School Officers Association for the 2007-08 school year. He also spent time earlier in his career as a special education teacher in the Alfred I. DuPont School District.

“I am proud of the hard work of the educators and students in schools across the state that has led to the learning gains and other progress our schools have experienced in recent years,” Dr. Godowsky said. “Yet more work remains. I appreciate the Senate entrusting me with this challenge. I look forward to working with our teachers, principals, district and charter leaders, legislators and partners to continue to support our schools to ensure every child has the opportunity to graduate prepared for success in their next steps in life.”

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Governor’s Statement on Confirmation of Bernice Whaley as Next DEDO Director

Dover, DE – The Delaware Senate today unanimously confirmed the nomination of Bernice Whaley to serve as Director of the Delaware Economic Development Office, succeeding Alan Levin, whose last day is June 30, 2015. The Governor issued this statement following the confirmation:

“Bernice has a proven track record of successfully supporting and growing businesses in Delaware. Equally important, she is committed to strengthening the state she feels has given her so many opportunities, both professionally and personally. Today’s unanimous vote by the Senate affirms her efforts. I look forward to our work together and I appreciate the Senate’s consideration and support.”

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Governor’s Statement on Confirmation of Jennifer Cohan as Next DelDOT Secretary

Dover, DE – The Delaware Senate today unanimously confirmed the nomination of Jennifer Cohan to serve as Secretary of the Delaware Department of Transportation, succeeding Secretary Shailen Bhatt, who will accept a nomination by Governor John Hickenlooper to serve as Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Transportation at the end of this month. The Governor issued this statement following the confirmation:

“With over 25 years of experience in State public service, Jennifer has developed the knowledge and forged the relationships necessary to continue strengthening Delaware’s transportation network.  Today’s unanimous vote by the Senate affirms her efforts.  I look forward to our work together and I appreciate the Senate’s consideration and support.”

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