FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 07-006

Governor Palin Appoints Three More to Administration
Names Leaders for Departments of Education
Environmental Conservation
Deputy Communications Director & Deputy Press Secretary

January 10, 2007, Juneau, Alaska – Governor Sarah Palin today appointed three more members to her administration, including: Education and Early Development Commissioner Roger Sampson; DEC Commissioner Larry Hartig; and Deputy Communications Director & Deputy Press Secretary Charles Fedullo.

“I am thrilled these fine Alaskans will be serving in my administration,” said Governor Palin. “They each bring a wealth of knowledge, an impeccable work ethic, and a high level of commitment to the State.”

Education and Early Development Commissioner Roger Sampson

Roger Sampson will remain in his position as Commissioner of Education and Early Development. Sampson was appointed Commissioner on May 9, 2003, by the former administration.

He has had a distinguished career spanning more than 20 years in Alaska.

“Roger has shown incredible leadership during his tenure as Education Commissioner,” said Palin. “I appreciate his commitment to all students across our great state. Roger will continue to bolster student achievement and find innovative teacher incentives.”

"I’m pleased to be able to move forward with Governor Palin's vision, which strongly supports the mission of the State Board of Education and the department to improve academic achievement for all students,” said Sampson. “It's time to move above and beyond No Child Left Behind mandates. We're positioned well for the next step: to connect core academic skills to the world of work and postsecondary education."

Roger has received many honors including Alaska Principal of the Year, and National Rural Superintendent of the Year.

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Larry Hartig

Larry Hartig has accepted the position of DEC Commissioner.

“Larry is the perfect Alaskan for this position,” said Governor Palin. “His deep Alaska roots coupled with in-depth experience with environmental issues in the private sector will serve Alaskans well. I have complete confidence that Larry will serve the best interests of the state, protecting our environment, as we enter this crucial period of resource development. Larry wants to get a gasline for Alaskans and his oil and gas experience which dates back to the early 70’s will add to the solid foundation of this administration.”

Hartig is an attorney who actively practices law in the areas of environmental, natural resources, and real estate law matters. His professional legal experience includes the acquisition of exploration and mineral rights for mining and oil and gas companies, purchase agreements, leases and other transactional agreements. Additionally, Hartig has provided legal guidance relating to environmental compliance and cleanup of contamination and assisting clients in obtaining air, water, and other permits for natural resource development. He has been in private practice in Anchorage since 1983.

“I was very pleased to get the Governor’s call,” said Hartig. “I look forward to serving Alaskans and combining my experiences to further help guide the state in its resource development.”

Hartig is an actively involved member of the Alaska community as a member of the State Board of Forestry since 1994, a current member of the Alaska Mining Association, present Director of the Resource Development Council, and active Board Member of the Alaska Mineral and Energy Education Fund.

Juneau Deputy Communications Director/ Deputy Press Secretary Charles Fedullo

Charles Fedullo has been named Deputy Communications Director / Deputy Press Secretary. Fedullo is no stranger to state government. He previously served the state for three years as Outreach Administrator and Public Information Officer for the Department of Environmental Conservation under Governor Knowles. Fedullo most recently worked an Assistant Professor and Chair of the Journalism Department for the University of Alaska, Fairbanks.

“I am thrilled to have Charles as part of my team,” said Palin. “Charles brings with him contagious enthusiasm, solid work ethic, a wealth of institutional knowledge, and a commitment to excellence.”

Fedullo is a graduate of the University of Alaska, Fairbanks and holds a Master of Arts Degree in Northern Studies.  He will serve in the Governor’s Juneau office.

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