Michigan Lottery Under New Leadership: Joe Froehlich Appointed Acting Commissioner

Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that Joe Froehlich will assume the role of acting commissioner of the Michigan Lottery, succeeding Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli, who has stepped down to pursue new opportunities. The appointment marks a strategic move to ensure stability within one of the state’s most significant revenue generators for public education.

“The Michigan Lottery helps us make record investments every year into our schools, and their success is supported by a team of professionals who ensure our games are run smoothly,” said Governor Whitmer. “I’m proud to announce Joe Froehlich as acting commissioner of the Michigan Lottery, ensuring a seamless transition as Suzanna Shkreli resigns effective today. The incredible team at the Michigan Lottery will continue working together to run our games effectively and with full integrity.”

A Veteran Leader with Deep Institutional Experience

Froehlich brings extensive experience to the role, having held multiple senior positions within the Lottery. He previously served as:

Chief Operating Officer

Deputy Commissioner of Legal Affairs and Charitable Gaming

Director of Compliance and Legal Affairs

Before joining the Michigan Lottery, Froehlich spent more than a decade at the Michigan Department of Attorney General in several staff and management roles. His background also includes work in the legal division of a Fortune 500 property and casualty insurance company, serving as an attorney at a Lansing-area law firm, and time as a law clerk and court officer for the Ingham County Circuit Court.

This wide-ranging legal and administrative experience positions Froehlich as a steady hand during the transition.

Recognizing Suzanna Shkreli’s Legacy

Governor Whitmer also acknowledged the significant achievements of outgoing Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli.

“I’m grateful to Suzanna for her service to the people of Michigan as Lottery Commissioner,” Whitmer said. “She’s led the commission through multiple record-breaking years, facilitating billion-dollar investments into Michigan’s public schools. She’s served in my administration in various roles since 2019, and I’m grateful for all her work to move our state forward.”

Shkreli’s tenure marked historic growth for the Michigan Lottery, with record contributions flowing into the School Aid Fund — a core mission that the Whitmer administration aims to uphold under Froehlich’s leadership.

Ensuring Stability Amid Growth

As acting commissioner, Froehlich steps in at a moment when the Michigan Lottery continues to grow both in retail and digital channels. His leadership is expected to reinforce the Lottery’s commitment to integrity, responsible gaming, and robust funding for education — areas that have defined its recent success.

The appointment signals continuity for Michigan’s gaming sector, reassuring stakeholders that the Lottery’s operations and long-term strategic vision will remain on course.