Gov. Rick Perry has named Suzy Whittenton of Austin director of administration for the governor’s office. Whittenton has served as chief financial officer for the governor’s office since November 2011.

Perry also reappointed Cydney C. Donnell of Fredericksburg to the Employees Retirement System of Texas Board of Trustees. Donnell is an executive professor, associate department head of finance and director of real estate programs at the Texas A&M University Mays Business School.

Becky Walker, formerly chief of staff to Railroad Commissioner Buddy Garcia, has been named policy analyst and media relations specialist for Sen. Kel Seliger. Betsy Bird will now serve as legislative director.

Greg Smith, chief executive of Clear Creek ISD in League City, was named superintendent of the year by the Texas Association of School Boards.

Tristan “Tris” Castañeda, previously the government relations manager at Baker Botts, has joined Longbow Partners, LLP as principal.