LANSING, Mich. — Following an extensive nationwide search, the Michigan Association for Pupil Transportation (MAPT) named Gary Bubar to its executive director position.

Bubar, who started in the role last month, is a former consultant of transportation safety for the state of Michigan.

He succeeds Karen Losch, who retired from the association. But MAPT President Darryl Hofstra told SBF he expects that “ she will stay involved in the industry independently and we will still see and hear from her.”

Aiding in the process of finding a new executive director was the Michigan Society of Association Executives (MSAE).

“We contracted with MSAE to do the search and guide our board and our own search committee through the process,” said Hofstra, who is supervisor of transportation for Forest Hills Public Schools in Grand Rapids.

Hofstra chaired the search committee, and the MAPT board of directors made the decision to hire Bubar. Hofstra said it was a difficult task, with many qualified applicants to choose from.

“We are grateful to everyone who applied for the position, and we’re confident that we had a dedicated committee and a number of wonderful applicants,” Hofstra said. “Gary will help our members to work collaboratively to serve the needs of pupil transportation providers.”

As MAPT’s executive director, Bubar oversees the day-to-day operations of the association, implements policies set by the board of directors, and directs the efforts of the MAPT staff. He also creates and executes strategy, builds partnerships and creates new revenue streams to increase member value.

Bubar, a Michigan native, obtained his master’s degree in administration from Central Michigan University. As a member of teaching agencies in a number of intermediate school districts across the state, he has helped thousands of drivers better understand the benefits and requirements of continuing education and the critical role drivers play in not only getting students to and from school, but also positively beginning the school day for every student they interact with.