Governor Kehoe Announces Eleven Gubernatorial Appointments
NOVEMBER 24, 2025
Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced nine gubernatorial appointments to various boards and commissions and filled two county vacancies.
Robert Alpers, of Prairie Home, was appointed to the Clean Water Commission.
Mr. Alpers is the secretary and treasurer of Alpers Brothers Farms Inc. He is an active member of several agricultural boards and organizations, including the United Soybean Board, the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, Missouri Soybean Association, and Missouri Farm Bureau. He also serves as chairman of the Cooper County Ambulance District and is a member and past-president of the Prairie Home Lions Club. He is a graduate of the Syngenta Leadership and Agriculture Leaders of Tomorrow leadership programs.
Melissa Berger, of Qulin, was appointed as the Butler County Public Administrator.
Ms. Berger currently serves as the deputy public administrator for Butler County. She previously served as city clerk for the City of Qulin and worked as a title researcher and closer for Heritage Title. Berger holds a notary public license and is a graduate of Twin Rivers High School.
Michael Brown, of Concordia, was appointed as the Lafayette County Southern Associate Commissioner.
Mr. Brown specializes in technical services administration for the Trails Regional Library of Johnson and Lafayette Counties. He previously served as mayor for the City of Concordia. An engaged member of his community, he previously served as a member of the Missouri State Teachers Association and president of the Concordia Teachers Organization. Brown earned his bachelor's degree in education from the University of Central Missouri.
Brett Calhoun, of Columbia, was appointed to the Missouri Technology Corporation.
Mr. Calhoun is the managing general partner of Redbud VC and the managing director of Scale Accelerator. He previously worked as a valuation consultant for Stern Brothers. He holds certificates in business valuation, Security Industry Essentials, and the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice. Calhoun earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from Arkansas Tech University and a Master of Business Administration in Finance and Entrepreneurship from the University of Missouri–Columbia.
Allen Dillingham, of Kansas City, was reappointed to the Missouri Technology Corporation.
Mr. Dillingham is the director of government relations for The Builders, a chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America. He previously served as a division director for the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. He is an active member of his community, serving as vice chair for the St. Luke's Health System–Northland Hospital Board and the St. Luke's Foundation Board of Trustees. Dillingham earned his bachelor's degree in world political economy from Colorado College and an Executive Master of Business Administration from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. He will serve as the chair of the Missouri Technology Corporation.
Andrea Fischer, of St. Joseph, was appointed to the Missouri Veterinary Medical Board.
Ms. Fischer is a senior therapeutic specialist for Gilead Sciences and previously worked as an executive oncology account specialist for AstraZeneca. She is an active member of several organizations, including the Missouri Cattlemen's Association and the American Simmental Association. Fischer earned her bachelor's degree in animal science from the University of Missouri–Columbia.
Flint Fowler, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Harris-Stowe University Board of Regents.
Dr. Fowler is a retired executive who previously served as president of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater St. Louis. He remains an active member of his community, serving on the Board of Directors for the St. Louis Arch Park Foundation and BackStoppers. He previously served on the Board of Commissioners for the St. Louis Zoological Association and the Board of Education for St. Louis Public Schools. Fowler earned his bachelor's degree in psychology and black studies and master's degree in psychology from Washington University. He also earned a doctorate with an emphasis in higher education administration from St. Louis University.
Allen Kunkel, of Springfield, was appointed to the Missouri Technology Corporation.
Mr. Kunkel is an associate vice president of economic development and director of the Jordan Valley Innovation Center at Missouri State University. He serves on several boards, including the International Economic Development Council, the Heartland Economic Development Course Board, and the Missouri Economic Development Council. Kunkel earned his bachelor's degree in community and regional planning from Iowa State University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Missouri–Columbia.
Kara Lowe, of Kansas City, was appointed to the Missouri Technology Corporation.
Ms. Lowe is the president and chief executive officer of the KC Tech Council. She previously served as the director of marketing for Washington Prime Group. She currently serves on the Workforce Advisory Board for the University of Kansas–Edwards Campus and Tech Councils of North America. Lowe earned her bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Kansas.
Dr. Virginia Mennemeyer, of Troy, was reappointed to the Missouri Dental Board.
Dr. Mennemeyer is the private practice owner of Mennemeyer Orthodontics in Troy. She previously worked as an orthodontist for Hannibal Dental Group. Dr. Mennemeyer is currently a member of the Greater Saint Louis Dental Society, the Missouri Dental Association, and the American Dental Association. She also serves as Missouri’s Director for the Midwest Society of Orthodontists. Dr. Mennemeyer earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, where she also graduated from the orthodontic residency program.
Dorian Stuber, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Holocaust Education and Awareness Commission.
Dr. Stuber is a retired professor of English at Hendrix College. He currently serves as an English Language Arts projects contractor for the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Stuber holds a master's degree in theory and criticism from Western University and a doctorate in comparative literature from Cornell University.
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Missouri Governor's Mansion to Host Tree Lighting Ceremony and Candlelight Tours
NOVEMBER 21, 2025
Jefferson City — Governor Mike Kehoe and Mrs. Claudia Kehoe invite families to join them for the first tree lighting ceremony and Candlelight Tours of the Kehoe Administration at the Missouri Governor's Mansion on Friday, December 5 at 6:00 p.m. The lighting of the tree will be followed by Candlelight Tours until 8:00 p.m. During the Candlelight Tours, visitors will be able to walk through the festively decorated first floor of the Governor's Mansion.
The Candlelight Tours will run again Monday, December 8 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Candlelight Tours are free and open to the public. Visitors will enter through the Madison Street gate.
This year's theme is, "Saint Nicholas: A Season of Giving." As part of Governor and Mrs. Kehoe's newly announced charitable initiative, Mansion on a Mission, mothers and children with St. Raymond's Society will join the First Family as special guests during the tree lighting ceremony.
Toys for Tots representatives will also be in attendance during the Candlelight Tours to accept donations of new, unwrapped toys or monetary contributions to support Missouri children this holiday season.
"Claudia and I look forward to welcoming Missourians to the People’s House this Christmas as we celebrate this season of giving," said Governor Kehoe.
In addition to the 36-foot Christmas tree on the Mansion lawn, foresters with the Missouri Department of Conservation sourced 10 Norway spruce trees to embellish the brick walkway leading to the Mansion. The 7-foot trees were selected from Pea Ridge Forest, a wholesale tree nursery and Christmas tree farm near Hermann, Missouri. The trees will be installed on the mansion lawn and decorated prior to the tree lighting and Candlelight Tours, beginning on Tuesday, November 25.
The Governor's Gardens and the Maus House will also be decorated, with the Governor's Gardens featuring a 28-ft Christmas tree. Santa and Mrs. Claus will greet families at the Mansion from 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. on December 5, and at the Maus House (115 Jefferson Street) from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. on December 8, 10, 12, and 15.
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Governor Kehoe Announces Two Judicial Appointments
NOVEMBER 21, 2025
Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced two judicial appointments to the 22nd Judicial Circuit.
Brooke Hurst, of St. Louis, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge in the 22nd Judicial Circuit.
Ms. Hurst is an assistant prosecuting attorney in St. Louis County. She is an active member of several organizations, including the Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater St. Louis, the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, and the Lawyers Association of St. Louis. She is also an adjunct professor at Washington University School of Law. She holds a bachelor's degree in liberal arts and sciences from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign and earned her Juris Doctor from Southern Illinois University School of Law. Hurst will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Barbara Peebles.
Patrick Richmond, of St. Louis, was appointed as Circuit Judge in the 22nd Judicial Circuit.
Judge Richmond currently serves as an associate circuit judge in the 22nd Judicial Circuit. He is an active member of his community, serving as a Catholic Youth Council (CYC) basketball and soccer official, as well as a CYC basketball, soccer, and softball coach. He also serves on the ABC Brigade for Stroke Victims. Richmond holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from St. Louis University and earned his Juris Doctor from St. Louis University School of Law. Richmond will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Bryan Hettenbach.
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Governor and Mrs. Kehoe Launch Mansion on a Mission Initiative
NOVEMBER 20, 2025
Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe and Mrs. Claudia Kehoe announced the launch of Mansion on a Mission, a community service initiative led by the First Family and the Missouri Governor’s Mansion.
The initiative’s first mission took place earlier today, Thursday, November 20, in Jefferson City, as the Governor and Mrs. Kehoe, along with the Governor’s Office and Mansion staff, delivered 100 Thanksgiving meals for families within the Jefferson City School District. Each meal kit included either a turkey or ham and ingredients to make traditional sides and a dessert.
"Mansion on a Mission is rooted in a simple belief: when we come together in service, we strengthen our state," said Governor Kehoe. "Claudia and I are proud to utilize the resources available to the Governor’s Mansion in a new way by making a direct impact on Missouri families. We look forward to using this initiative to highlight the good happening across Missouri, support families, and remind Missourians of the responsibility we all share to serve our neighbors."
Mrs. Kehoe said beginning the program in Missouri's capital city was a natural choice.
"Delivering these Thanksgiving meals was a meaningful reminder of how we can all put our Missouri values in action through care, generosity, and community," said Mrs. Kehoe. "We were excited to begin this effort here in Jefferson City, our state's capital city and the home of the Governor's Mansion. As this initiative grows, we look forward to seeing its positive impact spread across our state as we reach new communities and continue serving Missourians who may be in need of a helping hand."
This month’s Thanksgiving meal mission was also made possible by the generous donations of Cargill, Butterball, Central Dairy, the Missouri Pork Association, and the assistance of The Poultry Federation and the Missouri State Milk Board, as well as the collaboration of the Jefferson City School District.
Mansion on a Mission will continue to partner with local and statewide organizations to serve Missourians and strengthen communities across the state. Future missions will take place in various regions across the state and will be promoted by the Governor’s Office. Photos from the Thanksgiving meal packing and deliveries are available on the Governor’s Flickr page.
ABOUT MANSION ON A MISSION
Mansion on a Mission is a community-based initiative dedicated to serving Missourians. In partnership with the Missouri Governor's Mansion, the First Family leads efforts to provide resources and support to those in need of a helping hand. We are committed to strengthening communities and enhancing the well-being of Missourians across the state through compassion and service.
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Governor Kehoe Orders Capitol Dome Lighted Red, White, and Blue in Honor of the U.S. Marine Corps' 250th Birthday
NOVEMBER 7, 2025
Jefferson City — In celebration of the U.S. Marine Corps' 250th birthday, Governor Mike Kehoe has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine red, white, and blue, beginning at sunrise on Monday, November 10, 2025, until sunrise on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. The lighting pays tribute to generations of Marines who have served our nation with courage, honor, and unwavering commitment to the United States of America.
"For 250 years, the United States Marine Corps has stood as a symbol of unmatched courage, discipline, and devotion to our nation," said Governor Kehoe. "Lighting the Capitol dome red, white, and blue is a promise that Missouri will never forget the valor of this elite force whose courage and character have shaped the very course of our nation's history."
Events commemorating the Marine Corps' 250th birthday will take place statewide, including gatherings hosted by veterans' organization and community partners. Missourians are encouraged to participate in these celebrations to honor past, present, and future Marines.
Photos of the Capitol lighted red, white, and blue will be available on Governor Kehoe’s Flickr page.
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Governor Kehoe Announces Three Gubernatorial Appointments
NOVEMBER 7, 2025
Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced three gubernatorial appointments to various boards and commissions.
Stephanie Dooley, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Missouri Ethics Commission.
Ms. Dooley has served as the director of admission and placement at City Academy Elementary School for over a decade. In addition to her professional career, she is also a member of the regional disciplinary committee for the Supreme Court of Missouri. Dooley earned her bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and a Master of Business Administration from Webster University.
Melinda Robertson, of Bolivar, was appointed to the Missouri Ethics Commission.
Ms. Robertson is a seasoned government professional with nearly 30 years of experience serving as county clerk and south associate commissioner for Polk County. After retiring in 2024, she now works as a part-time tax and bookkeeping clerk at Winfield Tax Service. Robertson previously served on the Missouri Judicial Finance Commission.
Erwin "Erv" Switzer, of St. Louis, was reappointed to the Missouri Technology Corporation.
Mr. Switzer is a partner and assistant general counsel at UB Greensfelder. He previously served on the advisory board for former Attorney General Josh Hawley's Military Legal Assistant Team. He is a member of several organizations, including the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, the American Bar Association, and FOCUS St. Louis. Switzer earned his bachelor's degree in political science and his law degree from St. Louis University.
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Governor Kehoe Announces Judicial Appointment
NOVEMBER 7, 2025
Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced a judicial appointment to the 25thJudicial Circuit.
Zachary Armfield, of Rolla, was appointed as a Circuit Judge in the 25th Judicial Circuit.
Mr. Armfield currently serves as the assistant prosecuting attorney for Pulaski County, handling assault, domestic assault, and other kinds of violent crime cases. He previously worked as a senior public defender for the State of Missouri in Rolla. In addition to his professional career, he is an active member of the Rolla Lions’ Club. He earned his bachelor’s degree in history from Duke University and his law degree from Washington University School of Law in St. Louis. Armfield will fill a new position created by the General Assembly.
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Governor Kehoe Announces Submission of Missouri's Rural Health Transformation Plan
NOVEMBER 5, 2025
Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe and the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) announced the State of Missouri has submitted its Rural Health Transformation (RHT) plan to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
Missouri's bold, transformative plan for rural healthcare, completed in coordination with the Governor's Office, state agencies, and key healthcare stakeholders, is designed to increase access, improve quality, enhance care coordination, and incentivize long-term sustainability to create a healthcare ecosystem that will support Missouri's rural communities for generations to come.
“We appreciate the Trump Administration's focus on strengthening rural communities and creating this historic funding opportunity through the One Big Beautiful Bill,” said Governor Kehoe. “Missouri's Rural Health Transformation plan is a collaborative effort that will be embedded into every facet of our healthcare system, creating a lasting impact for future generations of rural Missourians.”
Key elements of Missouri's RHT plan include:
- Improving healthcare access for rural Missourians by connecting providers, pharmacies, public health agencies, at-home resources, and digital health tools through a unified, regional network.
- Expanding access to primary care, behavioral health, and maternity services in rural communities while strengthening specialty and complex care through telehealth and patient-focused technology.
- Enhancing rural provider sustainability by increasing collaboration among local partners to advance technology, operations, and care delivery, and incentivizing better health outcomes through shared savings of avoidable healthcare costs.
DSS, through its MO HealthNet Division, is leading the state's application effort in close collaboration with the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and the Department of Mental Health (DMH).
“Our department was proud to collaborate across state agencies and with key stakeholders to craft this bold plan,” said Director Jess Bax, Missouri DSS. “We look forward to continuing our work to support Missourians with this historic funding opportunity that will change the landscape of healthcare access and outcomes for rural Missourians.”
CMS will review each state's proposal and notify awardees by December 31, 2025. The funding will be distributed in the form of a cooperative agreement over the next five years.
Governor Kehoe's letter to CMS Administrator Dr. Oz in support of Missouri's plan can be read at this link. For more information on Missouri's RHT plan, please visit DSS's website.
For more information on CMS' Rural Health Transformation Program, visit this link.
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Governor Kehoe Orders Flags to Fly at Half-Staff in Honor of Former U.S. Vice President Richard "Dick" Cheney
NOVEMBER 4, 2025
Jefferson City — Today, in honor of former U.S. Vice President Richard "Dick" Cheney and in accordance with 4 U.S. Code §7, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered that U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in the State of Missouri, beginning today and continuing through the day of the former vice president's interment, which has yet to be announced.
"Vice President Cheney devoted his life to serving our nation with honor and distinction," Governor Kehoe said. "Throughout his decades of public service, he exemplified unwavering commitment to the United States' security and prosperity. In recognition of his long and distinguished career, we honor his life of service by lowering the flags across Missouri."
Cheney’s career in public service spanned more than four decades. He served as White House Chief of Staff under President Gerald Ford, represented Wyoming in the U.S. House of Representatives, and later served as Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush. From 2001 to 2009, he was Vice President of the United States under President George W. Bush.
On November 3, former Vice President Cheney, 84, passed away due to complications of pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease.
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Governor Kehoe Announces Expedited Appropriations for Food Assistance as Democrat-led Federal Government Shutdown Continues
OCTOBER 29, 2025
Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced additional steps his administration is taking to expedite food assistance for at-risk Missourians, given the impending loss of November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the Democrat-led federal government shutdown.
SNAP benefits are 100 percent federally funded, with each recipient receiving benefits from the federal government via their Electronic Benefit Transfer card. There is no mechanism for state appropriations to be transferred to cover this funding. The Missouri Department of Social Services stands ready to issue November SNAP benefits as soon as possible once the federal government is reopened.
“Democrats in Washington continue to hold the federal government hostage for political leverage, leaving Missouri's most vulnerable uncertain if they will have food on the table next month,” said Governor Kehoe. “While the State of Missouri cannot fully replace federal SNAP benefits for those who rely on them, we are working to expedite additional funding sources to assist Missouri's senior population and food banks.”
Governor Kehoe has directed a full $10.6 million fund transfer from the Senior Services Growth and Development Fund to Missouri Area Agencies on Aging. This funding will be critical in supporting Missouri’s Area Agencies on Aging in providing meals to seniors.
Additionally, Governor Kehoe has ordered a $5 million distribution to Missouri food banks using Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funding. This action takes the place of a regular appropriation typically issued later in the year but is being issued now given an increase in need due the loss of SNAP benefits.
Missourians in need of food assistance or looking to volunteer or donate are directed to Feeding Missouri – a coalition of six Missouri Food Banks working to provide hunger relief to every county in the state.
WIC Program Update
WIC benefits will be available for redemption in Missouri into November. WIC is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, administered in Missouri by the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and federally funded by the USDA, Food and Nutrition Service. WIC provides quality nutrition education, breastfeeding promotion and support, nutritious foods, and referrals to health services to qualifying individuals.
WIC families are encouraged to continue to attend appointments and redeem benefits using their WIC cards until further notice.
Missouri WIC will continue to monitor funding availability each day as the federal government shutdown continues. Retailers and participants will be notified should a pause in benefit redemption become necessary in the latter half of the month. Visit wic.mo.gov for updates.
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