Following the resignation of Secretary of State Shemia Fagan under a cloud of ethical misjudgements, Deputy Secretary of State Cheryl Myers issued the following statement.

“This is a resilient agency, with strong division leadership and internal systems that can withstand change. We are ready to continue the important work of the Secretary of State’s office during this transition.

“My first priority is to make sure Oregonians receive the customer service they deserve. This agency does such critical work, and it’s our job to put Oregonians first during this transition.

“This is an unfortunate situation, but a change of leadership will allow agency staff to continue their good work with less distraction moving forward.”

The Secretary will continue in her official duties until Monday, May 8, at which point Deputy Secretary Cheryl Myers will take on oversight of the agency until a new Secretary is appointed by the Governor. The Deputy has the power to perform any act or duty of the Secretary of State pertaining to the office of the Secretary (ORS 177.040) and is well positioned to help the agency maintain stability and continuity of operations during this transition.

All SOS divisions have consistently reported to Oregon’s Deputy Secretary of State over the last two years. In her role, Deputy Myers will continue her oversight of the agency and will collaborate with the Governor’s Office on a plan to onboard the Governor’s appointment to replace the outgoing Secretary Fagan.

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Deputy Myers' professional background includes public policy, organizational leadership, economic development, public education/youth advocacy, and a history of assisting organizations to construct equitable cultures and embed collaborative practices. Her prior public service roles include Director of Economic & Business Equity in the Governor’s Office, Chief of Staff for the Higher Education Commission and as Operations & Engagement Director for Educator Advancement in the Chief Education Office and 8 years as an elected school board member. She is well positioned to help the agency maintain stability and continuity of operations during this transition. ​​​​​


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2023-05-02 13:19:46

Last Update: 2023-05-02 13:45:36