August 30, 2010
Gov. Nixon appoints Mary E. Nelson Administrative Hearing Commissioner
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - Gov. Jay Nixon today announced his appointment of Mary E. Nelson, an attorney from St. Louis, to a six-year term on the Missouri Administrative Hearing Commission. Since January 2009, Nelson has served as Director of Boards and Commissions for the Governor's office.
"Throughout her career, Mary has demonstrated a sharp legal acumen and an extraordinary commitment to public service," Gov. Nixon said. "I know she will bring that same dedication to her new role on the Administrative Hearing Commission, and the people of Missouri will continue to benefit from her work."
Prior to joining Gov. Nixon's administration, Nelson was an officer in the firm of Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C., working in the construction and corporate practice groups. From 2006 until March 2008, she was General Counsel for The Kwame Building Group Inc., a major construction management firm based in St. Louis.
In addition to positions with other private firms, Nelson served as General Counsel and Legislative Director for the Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives from 1996 to 1997; was General Counsel for the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) from 1993 to 1996; and was Director of Small and Minority Business Development for the SLDC's predecessor organization from 1982 to 1986. She also served as president of the St. Louis City Board of Police Commissioners from 2002 to 2004. Ms. Nelson earned a bachelor's degree from Princeton University in 1977 and her juris doctorate from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1980.
The Administrative Hearing Commission is a neutral, independent administrative tribunal that decides disputes involving state agencies and another party, usually a private person or corporation. The Commission typically decides the cases after a trial-type hearing. The commissioners do not sit as a body; instead, each commissioner hears evidence and arguments from the state agency and from the other party and decides a case as an individual. Any party, including the state agency, may seek review of the Administrative Hearing Commission's decision from the judicial branch.
The Governor's appointment will be subject to confirmation by the Missouri Senate.