A former ASMSU official is returning to the organization to temporarily fill the post left vacant by the June death of the group’s association director.

Social relations senior Joe Mignano, who served as Student Assembly’s 2001-2002 vice chairperson of external affairs, was appointed the interim head of the undergraduate student government’s staff. He replaces Charles Beachnau, who died of a heart attack June 29.

Mignano will hold the position until a new association director is hired in early fall semester. The association director is the organization’s chief of staff, working with Academic and Student assemblies and running the group’s office staff. The person also serves as the chairperson of ASMSU’s Steering Committee, which sets the government’s agenda.

“We needed somebody in there to continue the work Charles had started,” Student Assembly Chairperson Matt Weingarden said. “He was already aware of both (Academic Assembly Chairperson) Matt Clayson and my agenda items, and it wouldn’t take much time for him to adjust.”

Mignano, who was a friend of Beachnau, said the transition into the job has been a little difficult. In addition to establishing contacts with the staff, Mignano must pick up the projects Beachnau started.

“It’s been tough times because of the circumstances,” he said. “Right now is just seeing what Charles was doing and what he was thinking.”

Mignano, who was appointed Monday, said he spent his first week trying to get up to speed.

Jeanette Lantzy, Academic Assembly’s vice chairperson for external affairs, said Beachnau left big shoes to fill, but she said she has confidence in Mignano.

“He’s going into it blind,” Lantzy said. “But Joe’s very capable and will do a wonderful job.”

Amy Bartner can be reached at bartnera@msu.edu.