Honorable James J. Blanchard

James J. Blanchard has held several high-ranking government positions since obtaining an MBA from Michigan State University and a JD from the University of Minnesota Law School. Between 1975 and 1983, he served two terms in Congress before becoming governor of Michigan. His accomplishments during eight years in office led U.S. News and World Report to list him among the nation's best governors. Between 1993 and 1996, his work as U.S. ambassador to Canada earned him the Foreign Affairs Award for Public Service. His duties as ambassador concluded, he became chairman of the Democratic Governors Association.