California Governor Gavin Newsom appoints experienced leaders to key state agencies, advancing California’s efforts in transportation, communications, film, and environmental conservation

Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a series of new appointments to key state agencies, bringing in experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds to help drive California’s transportation, communications, film, and environmental policies forward.

A Vision for Mobility Innovation

Emily Warren of Orinda has been named Deputy Secretary for Innovative Mobility Solutions at the California State Transportation Agency. With a career spanning the private and public sectors, Warren has built an extensive background in transportation policy, sustainable mobility, and emerging technologies. She most recently served as an Advisory Venture Partner at Fontinalis Partners, LLC, a firm focused on mobility investments. Prior to that, she led public policy initiatives at EverCharge and Embark Trucks, two companies at the forefront of electric vehicle infrastructure and autonomous trucking.

Warren’s extensive experience includes time at Amazon, Lime, and Lyft, where she played a pivotal role in shaping transportation policies that balance innovation with public interest. A recognized leader in mobility solutions, she currently serves on the National Center of Sustainable Transportation Leadership Council and the UCLA Institute of Transportation Studies Advisory Board. With a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor’s in Political Science and Critical Gender Studies from UC San Diego, Warren is well-positioned to guide California’s evolving transportation landscape.

Her new role will focus on expanding sustainable mobility initiatives, integrating new technologies into transportation infrastructure, and ensuring that innovation aligns with the state’s long-term environmental goals. She will receive an annual salary of $176,004, and the position does not require Senate confirmation.

Strengthening Communications at the DMV

In another key appointment, Eva Spiegel of Davis has been selected as the Deputy Director of Communications at the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Spiegel brings a strong background in public affairs and strategic communications, having served as a Senior Communications Specialist at Kearns & West and previously leading her own firm, Spiegel Communications. Her 12-year tenure at the League of California Cities further cemented her expertise in public sector messaging and policy advocacy.

Spiegel holds a Master’s degree in Broadcast and Electronic Communication Arts from San Francisco State University and a Bachelor’s in Political Science from UC Davis. With her deep understanding of media strategy and public engagement, she will play a critical role in enhancing the DMV’s outreach efforts, improving public communication on policies, and addressing consumer concerns. The position does not require Senate confirmation and comes with a salary of $150,000 per year.

A New Voice for the Film Industry

Governor Newsom has also appointed Suzy Shuster of Beverly Hills to the California Film Commission, reinforcing the state’s commitment to supporting film and television production. Shuster is a well-known sports journalist, producer, and broadcaster, currently serving as the Co-Host and Executive Producer of Women’s Sports Now on RokuChannel and a Guest Host on The Rich Eisen Show.

With experience at ABC Sports, Fox Sports, and ESPN, Shuster brings valuable media industry insight to the commission. She has been deeply involved in sports broadcasting for decades, and her addition to the Film Commission signals an emphasis on expanding media representation and industry development in California. While her position is unpaid and does not require Senate confirmation, her influence in the entertainment sector is expected to contribute to policies that keep California at the forefront of film and media production.

Protecting California’s Natural Resources

Lastly, Tom Huntington of San Francisco has been appointed to the State Park and Recreation Commission, bringing decades of experience in environmental advocacy and nonprofit leadership. Huntington has worked as a consultant for nonprofit and foundation management since 2013 and previously spent nearly 30 years with the Environmental Defense Fund as the Western Regional Development Director.

His extensive conservation work dates back to the 1970s and 1980s, when he served as Executive Director for the Friends of the River Foundation and worked as a river guide and campaign coordinator for water conservation efforts. Huntington earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Teaching from the University of Oregon, and his appointment will focus on ensuring California’s parks and natural landscapes remain protected for future generations. This position requires Senate confirmation and offers a compensation of $100 per diem.

A Focus on Expertise and Leadership

With these new appointments, Governor Newsom continues to prioritize experienced leadership across critical state agencies. Each appointee brings a unique skill set tailored to their respective fields, helping advance California’s goals in transportation, public communication, entertainment, and environmental conservation.

As these professionals step into their new roles, Californians can expect continued efforts to modernize infrastructure, enhance public engagement, and strengthen key industries, all while aligning with the state’s broader commitment to sustainability, innovation, and public service.