Sandoval promotes from within to fill final four cabinet posts

Gov.-elect Brian Sandoval on Wednesday announced promotions to fill cabinet-level jobs directing the departments of corrections, cultural affairs, information technology and public safety.

James "Greg" Cox will be acting Director of the Department of Corrections. Cox is currently deputy director of the department and based in Las Vegas. He was formerly warden of the High Desert State Prison and the Southern Desert Correctional Facility. He replaces outgoing director Howard Skolnik who previously announced he would retire because he was doubtful Sandoval planned to retain him.

Michael Fisher will be appointed acting director of the Department of Cultural Affairs. Fisher was already the director of the department, which oversees the Nevada State Library and the state archivist office.

Fisher is a dentist by trade, having practiced in Gardnerville for 31 years. He is formerly a Douglas County Commissioner and has served on the board of directors for the Western Folklife Center and the Douglas County Historical Society.

David Gustafson will be appointed acting Director of the Department of Information Technology. Gustafson is currently the deputy director of the department. He replaces Daniel Stockwell, who retired in November following a 47-year career in technology.

Chris Perry will be acting Director of the Department of Public Safety. Perry is currently deputy director of the department and started his law enforcement career as a Nevada Highway Patrol trooper in 1982. He will replace current director Jearld L. Hafen.

Sandoval administration officials say salaries for cabinet-level positions will be announced following the Jan. 3 inauguration.