517 Magazine January/February 2022

517 11 B U S I N E S S

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LOCAL NEWS SNAPSHOT COVID dictates region’s future business landscape

NOTABLE NEWS

Professional highlights from the region

L I F E

WHYWOMEN LEADERS MATTER More voices at the table is important for any business

IN THE

517 WOMEN LEADERS WHO ARE REGIONAL TRAILBLAZERS

Jan/Feb 2022

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Contact our Business Services team today. msufcu.org/commercial I 517-333-2424, ext. 4848

Visit msufcu.org/commercial for full details.

WOMEN IN IBEW NECA 665

we WORK.

we TEACH.

we LEAD.

Women belong in the electrical trade.

IBEW NECA 665 celebrates women who've chosen a career in the growing electrical industry. From apprentices to master electricians to company presidents, these women make our industry stronger. ibewneca665.org

publisher’s note

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Leadership is Helping Others Obtain Success

he road to improvement and enrichment can, at times, be a steep one to travel.

That little platitude applies to everyone; however, it takes on a deeper and more profound truth when talking about women in the business world. The fabled glass ceiling may be cracked or weakened or even breached in some cases, but it still hasn’t shattered and remains intact in many respects — whether you’re talking about compensation, advancement or acceptance in the workplace.

Those who have made the climb and broken through are often held up — as they well should be — as examples of the strides that are being made and the changes for the better that are underway. Still, they aren’t typically heralded as leaders in business as much as they are identified as women leaders — and that simple qualifier is extremely important because it speaks to the fact that obtaining such levels of accomplishment remains far too rare an occurrence despite competencies and qualifications.

Yes, there is progress being made, but the wheels of that progress seem to be turning at an unacceptably slow pace. For that reason, the importance of today’s women leaders to serve as inspiration and reach down to help those still on that upward climb cannot be understated.

Female leaders deserve all the respect and recognition they receive, but they still have a responsibility to help those still on the climb reach the top — whatever or wherever that top may be. Mentorship cultivates confidence in others who are still finding their footing and striving to take that next step of ascension and find that next inroad to success. It’s also critical to patronize and recommend women-owned businesses. Reaching out to those organizations led by women helps build the cycle of support.

Success is an issue whose definition can’t be painted with a broad brush. It’s a personal goalpost that means different things to different individuals. Yet when we use our knowledge of the traps and pitfalls experienced on our own journey to provide safe passage to those still on theirs, we’re helping to ensure that the concept of “women leaders” more swiftly shifts from the outlier to the norm.

When we stand up, we can help others step up. Enjoy our combined January and February issues for 2022. Happy New Year!

517 Business and Life, Volume 3, Issue 1, January/February 2022.

Publisher Tiffany Dowling tiffany@m3group.biz

517 Business and Life (USPS#020-807) is published monthly by M3 Group at 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933. Periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Michigan.

Managing Editor Mary Gajda mary@m3group.biz

Subscriptions: Subscriptions are available at $22 per year for postage and handling or $38 for two years.

Call (517) 203-3333 or visit 517mag.com to subscribe.

Postmaster: Send address changes to 517 Business and Life, 221 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48933. Copyright @2021. 517 Business and Life. All rights reserved.

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517 | 1/2.22

Lead Editor Christopher Nagy Contributors Rich Adams Kyle Dowling Mary Gajda Christine MacIntyre Metro Melik Christopher Nagy Tedi R. Parsons Omar Sofradzija Jack Tany Graphic Designers Kathryn Aspin Audrey Spring Client Strategists Megan Fleming megan@m3group.biz Liz Reno-Hayes liz@m3group.biz Melissa DeMott melissa@m3group.biz Photographers Kathryn Aspin Kyle Dowling Mary Gajda Metro Melik Audrey Spring

Tiffany Dowling Publisher

2

Creative Visionary Chad Hussle chad@m3group.biz

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WE’RE MOVING SPRING 2022

The countdown is on.

In a few short months, McLaren Greater Lansing will open its doors to patients in a brand-new facility. The all-new health care campus, including a 240-bed state-of-the-art hospital, will advance patient care, comfort, safety, and convenience for our community. From the cancer-fighting expertise of Karmanos to a modern heart and vascular institute to luxurious labor and delivery suites to an ER that reinvents the patient experience, we’re bringing our best close to you.

Visit mclaren.org/lansing for a preview.

NEED TA L E N T M A N AG E M E N T STRATEGIES?

CONNECTING WITH BUSINESS. STRENGTHENING OUR WORKFORCE. camw.org

1-800-285-WORK

Capital Area Michigan Works! is a proud partner of the American Job Center network. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this piece will be made available in an alternative format upon request to Capital Area Michigan Works! Relay Center. Call 711 or 844-578-6563 (Voice and TDD). Funding for Capital Area Michigan Works! is received in part from the U.S. Department of Labor and the State of Michigan. An Equal Opportunity Employer/Center.

contents

Jan/Feb

2022

13 11 in the 517

Women leaders who are regional trailblazers

41 In Service of Others

Freeman finds enlightenment, empowerment in helping

1/2.22 | 517

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contents

lifestyle

business 11

AREA SNAPSHOT

34

PLACES

19

TRENDS

36

GOOD READS

20

NOTABLE NEWS

RECIPE

28

STATE/NATIONAL

37 38

HOME HELPERS

30

ON THE RECORD

POLL

31

PERSPECTIVES

40

32

BIZ TIPS

46

NONPROFIT

47

PLAY

A Snapshot of Local Business News Affecting the 517 Why Women Leaders Matter Professional Highlights from the 517 Region A Brief Look at State and National News Affecting our Region Career Changes, Cookies and Confections Working to Connect to Nonprofits From June Cleaver to the C-Level Suite

DEPARTMENTS

2 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 48 6

517 | 1/2.22

WRAP UP

A Cider House that Rules Boss Cider is worth the trip to Leslie Words of Wisdom 5 good reads for women in business leadership roles Floral White-Chocolate Bark Dodging the Draft 6 ways to keep your house warm this winter Best of the 517 Women leaders Giving Voice to a Medical Need Mark Foundation helps guide those on their health care journey Visit 517living.com for More Lansing-Area Activities

Our goal is to help you pursue yours.

It’s that simple.

At Merrill, we’ll help you get ready for the future with a financial approach that’s designed for you.

The BZEMS Group Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 2501 Coolidge Road Suite 500 East Lansing, MI 48823 517.324.4631 fa.ml.com/bzems_group

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.

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The Bull Symbol and Merrill are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. © 2021 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

May Lose Value MAP3494744 | AD-09-21-0405 | 470948PM-0421 | 10/2021

THE MOST TRUSTED NAME IN

HOME SERVICES HAS YOU READY FOR 2022

Call today to schedule your winter: • Furnace Maintenance Tune-up • Whole-house electrical inspection • Annual plumbing inspection • Kitchen & Bath remodel consultation for Spring 2022

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business

AREA SNAPSHOT p.11 TRENDS p.19 NOTABLE NEWS p.20 STATE/NATIONAL p.28 ON THE RECORD p.30 PERSPECTIVES p.31 BIZ TIPS p.32

WOMEN AND THE GREAT REEVALUATION Two years into a worldwide pandemic, the U.S. is experiencing the lowest labor force participation rates by women since the 1970s.

Many women were forced to choose between work and children when the pandemic disrupted school and forced in-home learning on families, but there’s another group that simply found themselves burnt out.

The question is: How long will this trend last? According to a MetLife survey, 2 in 3 women who were forced out of work say they plan to return. But they’ll be looking for employers to make it worth it — not just in pay, but in increased flexibility, through promotions, tailored benefits and seeing change from within a company, including equity and inclusion programs.

Also reported in the MetLIfe survey, of the women who felt pushed out of the workplace and are planning to make their comebacks, 8 in 10 report they want to return to work in a STEM job, making possible a transformation from the “Great Resignation” to the “Great Reevaluation.”

Sources: apnews.com, Wall Street Journal, MetLife.

1/2.22 | 517

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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT

BUY-SELL AGREEMENTS

Protecting the future of your business from the unexpected The fast-paced business world is always future-focused — the next move, the next deal, the next big thing — so it almost seems counterintuitive to look backward at the trail you have blazed to get to where you are today.

Yet doing so allows a wider perspective to come into view of exactly how much of your time, sweat equity, and determination have gone into building your life’s work as a businessowner.

It also provides an opportunity to consider how to preserve and protect your legacy from unforeseen circumstances. You provide insurance to safeguard the well-being of your employees and their families, but what shields the health of your business from the unexpected?

Buy-sell agreements are a common, yet often overlooked, insurance coverage that can protect your investment in the event that something happens to you or one of your business partners. Agents Tim Barry and Brian Songer, owners of the Barry Songer Agency of Farm Bureau Insurance in Lansing, have decades of combined experienced to assist businessowners and help ensure all that they’ve worked for remains secure now and well into the future.

“If Tim and I own a business together and I die, he may not want to be partners with my wife,” Songer said. “In a buy-sell agreement you buy life insurance on each other, so that the funds are there to pay the wife or the interested parties. In essence, it’s an avenue to have the funds to buy the other person out upon a death.

“I don’t think anybody goes into business with the idea that they’re going to be in business with someone else’s spouse or significant other or children unless that succession is already established and in place,” he added.

While part of a buy-sell agreement allows remaining partners to move forward with the business as originally envisioned, perhaps the more significant importance of the policy is that it ensures the business itself is able to continue.

“It makes sure the funds are there to buy out the other interested party.

It gives them the funds and the instant dollars to be able to take care of that,” Songer said.

“Often, when something like this happens, the business won’t survive, because because: 1) Who is going to do the work that the person was doing?, and 2) Who is going to pay his or her heirs? That’s where the insurance comes in.”

While buy-sell agreements are rare, they often remain unconsidered when a new business or partnership is getting off the ground.

“Many times, when we get the paperwork for an LLC, there’s already a page where they were supposed to have life policies on each other,” Barry said. “But nobody goes through with it. The attorney doesn’t do a good job of saying, ‘Hey, you need to think about this part of it.’”

That’s why the importance of having knowledgeable insurance agents who are looking out for your best interests is vital, and it’s why Farm Bureau believes that experience matters.

“If you deal with a Farm Bureau agent, you’re dealing with somebody that knows what they’re doing,” Songer said. “Experience matters — and with us, that’s exactly what you’re getting because we have over a half-century of experience between us.”

And if Barry and Songer need additional help or expertise, they noted that the larger Farm Bureau family has a deep well of expertise from which they can draw to best meet whatever individual needs a client may have.

“We don’t really care what the price is that comes out on the quote.

We’re going to do it right,” Barry said.

“We don’t sell based on price. We sell based on your needs,” Songer added.

6350 W. MICHIGAN AVE #300, LANSING, MI 48917

|

517-886-2260

business / AREA SNAPSHOT

A snapshot of local business news affecting the 517

A LOOK BACK: PANDEMIC DOMINATES HEADLINES IN 2021

BY RICH ADAMS

COVID-19. Pandemic. Delta variant. Omicron variant.

Schools reopening, then closing.

These virus-related issues dominated news headlines in 2021, stretching from mask mandates early in the year to a spike in cases at year’s end. The oddities associated with the COVID-19 pandemic were also numerous. But there was other news in the headlines during the year.

About 400 protesters assembled at the state Capitol to demand an audit of the 2020 election results.

When the year began, state officials activated the National Guard in anticipation of a large protest at the Capitol, but only a dozen marchers showed up.

Amazon announced plans to open a facility in Lansing, creating 250 jobs.

A new 122-room hotel opened in downtown Lansing. The site also included 40 apartments and a Meijer store.

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor announced he would seek a second term. He was successful in the November election.

A comprehensive post-election audit confirmed the results of Michigan’s 2020 election results.

Frank Kelley, who served as Michigan’s attorney general for 37 years, died at age 96.

A worldwide semiconductor shortage forced General Motors to shut down its Lansing assembly plants. Shutdowns would plague the automaker throughout the year.

Community activists demanded change at the Lansing Police Department after the April 11 death of Anthony Hulon in the city lockup.

Emergent BioSystems announced plans to build a plant in DeWitt Township, creating 328 jobs.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ended the indoor mask mandate for fully vaccinated people.

Lansing Police Chief Daryl Green announced his retirement.

The FBI was rebuked for its handling of sexual assault charges against Larry Nassar.

Dozens of people marched in south Lansing calling for action to end gun violence. Homicide levels would be shocking by year’s end.

Tailgaters gathered around Spartan Stadium for the first game in a year where fans could be in the stands.

DeLuca’s Restaurant was being sold after 60 years of serving the area.

East Lansing’s City Council elected Ron Bacon as the city’s first Black mayor.

Sparrow hospital halted elective surgery because of the number of COVID-19 cases in December.

1/2.22 | 517

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business / AREA SNAPSHOT

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COVID DICTATES REGION’S FUTURE BUSINESS LANDSCAPE

CONSUMERS DEDICATES TO A GREENER FUTURE

BY OMAR SOFRADZIJA

BY OMAR SOFRADZIJA

What Greater Lansing’s new business landscape looks like in 2022 greatly depends on how occupied downtown Lansing offices are in the new year in the wake of a coronavirus-driven dispersal of white-collar workers from the city’s center.

“The big thing for us in our region is what is downtown Lansing going to look like and what is the state of Michigan workforce going to look like as we get into 2022? I think it’s a question that has to be asked, and I think it’s one we have to figure out together,” said Tim Daman, president and CEO of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce.

State government employs nearly 15,000 people in Greater Lansing, many of whom have been ordered to work away from offices since the coronavirus pandemic started in 2020.

“It’s such a profound economic impact on our downtown that what that workforce looks like with a higher percentage remote in the future is going to have to change and dictate what our economic and business development strategies are for downtown Lansing,” Daman said.

Though events are slowly coming back to the Lansing Center, there is concern over how a fluctuating in-office workforce could affect visitor spending in the region.

“We need to have a consistent downtown workforce to make the restaurants viable and other amenities,” said Scott Keith, president and CEO of the Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority, which runs the Lansing Center, Jackson Field and Groesbeck Golf Course. “It does go hand in hand that we have a workforce downtown on a regular basis in order for those visitors to have the attractions and amenities they’re looking forward to.”

Quite a few New Year’s resolutions may be centered around being cleaner and greener. To that end, mid-Michigan businesses will have plenty of opportunities to fulfill that promise in 2022, thanks to local utilities.

“Consumers Energy’s business customers looking to be more efficient, costeffective and sustainable have a lot of options to help them achieve their goals,” said Terry DeDoes, senior public information director for the utility. “There are a lot of rebates for customers looking to make their facilities more energy-efficient.”

The utility’s business and residential customers have saved a cumulative $4 billion-plus through energy-efficiency measures since 2009, said DeDoes. The utility hopes to go coal-free by 2025, use 90% clean energy sources by 2040 and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by that same year.

Consumers Energy also offers its “Power My Fleet” program, which can help regional enterprises in transitioning their corporate fleets — such as delivery trucks, school buses and such — to emission-free vehicles, DeDoes said.

“Those are incentives we have for customers looking to be more sustainable to go with vehicles that don’t have emissions,” he said. “It’s a whole system that we’ll customize to make sure you have the energy you need, the equipment you need and the information you need to make that transformation to an electric vehicle fleet.”

The utility’s other offerings to business customers, according to DeDoes, include: • Free on-site energy assessments.

• A Michigan-generated renewable energy credit for relying on wind and solar facilities located in the state.

• Rebates for energy-efficient HVAC, mechanical, lighting and insulation products.

• A 15% rebate for using energy-efficient equipment manufactured in Michigan.

Go to consumersenergy.com/business for more information on options and benefits.

517 | 1/2.22

F E ATU R E

11

IN THE

517

WOMEN LEADERS WHO ARE REGIONAL TRAILBLAZERS

BY MARY GAJDA

There has never been a more tumultuous time for leadership in any business community: human resources departments turned on their heads, a hybrid workplace, difficulty retaining employees due to burnout — most all of it related to the ongoing pandemic. Those issues are layered on top of the systemic obstacles women in the workplace have faced for decades. Yet for 11 women in the 517, tenacity, focus and drive have allowed them to step up and stand out.

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LYNN GRIFFOR

NICOLE NOLL-WILLIAMS

BRANDIE EKREN

Vice President of Philanthropy: McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation

President and CEO: Capital Region Airport Authority

Having served as vice president of philanthropy for the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation since 2019, Lynn Griffor successfully led a $10 million capital campaign to support McLaren’s new health care campus, scheduled to open in March. As part of the senior leadership team at McLaren Greater Lansing, Griffor serves on the funding committee for the McLaren Center for Research and Innovation and is a founding member of the Women’s Giving Circle.

“I truly believe that approaching work with an open mind and the belief that we can figure anything out contributes to successful outcomes,” Griffor said.

On her journey to her current role, Griffor credits Jennifer Montgomery, former CEO of McLaren Port Huron, with encouraging her to take a risk when she was offered the opportunity to come to McLaren Greater Lansing.

“She … gave me the confidence I needed to step up to a new challenge,” said Griffor.

Asked how she’s built confidence and resiliency over the course of her career, Griffor is humble.

“Authenticity and vulnerability have helped me build confidence and resilience,” she said. “I embrace my shortcomings, I am open about my mistakes, and I never pretend to be the smartest person in the room. I also love to learn, which makes me comfortable taking risks.”

Griffor gives sage advice for women who want to grow into a leadership role.

“My advice is to support your team above all else,” Griffor said. “I made a promise to the MGL team that I would never ask them to do anything I wouldn’t do myself, and I try very hard to uphold that promise. I try every day to make sure my staff feels protected, supported and appreciated.”

Nicole Noll-Williams assumed the lead at the Capital Region Airport Authority after spending almost three years as the mid-Michigan regional director for U.S. Sen. Gary C. Peters. The move returned her to an area of extensive and familiar experience. Noll-Williams previously logged over 25 years in the aviation industry, with experience in air service development, airline management and contract management, and more recently as the director of marketing and passenger development for the Capital Region International Airport and Mason Jewett Airport.

She describes her leadership style as collaborative.

“I strive to create an environment that encourages sharing ideas and different viewpoints,” she said. “I wholeheartedly believe that the success of my organization requires looking outside my own thinking, leveraging the talent and creativity of my team. Surrounding myself with people who will work together and challenge the status quo is the way I can be an effective leader.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to have had wonderful mentors and role models who have inspired me throughout my career, but, without a doubt, my parents have been my biggest inspiration,” Noll-Williams said. “From a very young age, they instilled in me the values of a strong work ethic and a just-get-itdone attitude.”

When she first started in the aviation industry, Noll-Williams said, there were very few women in leadership roles, let alone as CEOs. “I’ve been blessed to have had men who have helped me navigate what was a male-dominated industry. In addition, I’m indebted to an amazing group of strong women in my life, who are fierce, who are brave and who support each other without hesitation.”

The importance of loving what you do has been one common mindset held by all who have inspired her. One of her favorite quotes by Winston Churchill states, “Those whose work and pleasure are one, are fortune’s favored children.”

“I believe that even through challenging times, you should love the work you do,” Noll-Williams said.

Executive Director of Strategic Planning and Development: Lansing Board of Water and Light

Pictured on the cover, Lynn Griffor visited the 517 Magazine office for this month’s photo shoot of 11 women leaders from the region.

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517 | 1/2.22

Brandie Ekren’s passion for the energy industry has helped her grow and advance her career at BWL for more than 17 years. She currently is responsible for overall organizational strategy, commercial and industrial business development, marketing, and real property management. Ekren joined BWL in 2004 as associate attorney and advanced to general counsel for BWL legal affairs in 2008.

She refers to her leadership style as transformational, adopting and practicing a mindset that includes passion, innovation and growth to yield the highest potential in all teams within her care.

“It’s fulfilling to encourage and witness my team going beyond their immediate self-interests to realize their full potential and exceed their perceived capabilities,” said Ekren, crediting her parents, colleagues and team members as sources for her own inspiration. “Additionally, the utility industry and its future potential are also inspiring. I like to think of our customers and how we as a utility can help positively influence their life.”

Ekren’s resiliency comes from within.

“I don’t originate from a background that involved a clearcharted course to success,” Ekren said. “As a matter a fact, my indigent upbringing did not always afford me basic utilities such as electricity, heat and running water. My parents did the best they could, and I learned at an early age to improvise, abandon pride, and be open to giving and receiving help. As such, I never believed I was limited by my circumstances.”

Her advice for women looking to lead: “Develop and continuously update your personal purpose and mission statement. Then apply your purpose and mission to everything you do.

F E ATU R E MARGARET TRIMER

LORI SIMON

CINDY KANGAS

Vice President of Strategic Partnerships: Delta Dental of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana

Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging; Civil Rights Coordinator and Human Resources Liaison for Caregiver Resource Groups: Sparrow Health System

Executive Director: Capital Area Manufacturing Council

Margaret Trimer guides marketing, public relations, company culture and the investment of more than $7 million dedicated to building healthy, smart, vibrant communities. Prior to joining Delta Dental in 2018, Trimer led Junior Achievement of Southeastern Michigan, founded and ran University Prep Science and Math schools in Detroit, and directed communications for the Michigan Education Association. While at the MEA, Trimer started a nonprofit called Your Child, which is credited with revealing Michigan’s lackluster culture of education and conducting a major public relations campaign designed to spur improvement.

“I lead by distributing power,” Trimer said. “I tell my team members they are the CEOs of their own jobs.

They must stay in their lanes, but they have decision-making power and are expected to be experts in their area of work. This requires them to know their jobs, be accountable and keep things moving.”

Trimer had several role models and critical friends along her journey but credits Beth Konrad, former editorial director at Detroit NBC affiliate WDIVTV 4 for mentoring her as a 17-year-old television intern. Her TV history has also led her to podcast.

“I have a podcast called Grit — MarGRIT Trimer,” she said. “It’s an appropriate title, as I’ve developed that trait over a lifetime. I’m a firstgeneration college graduate, raised by working-class parents who were from immigrant families. Nobody gave them anything. They were self-made and they taught me how to chase my dreams and make them real without any sense of entitlement.”

Her advice for future women leaders is simple: “Don’t be a mean girl; support your colleagues in their professional journey. If you do well, then turn around and do good for others. Be a learner. Be purpose-driven. Know your core values and your why and live them passionately.”

Lori Simon provides leadership and strategic direction to support Sparrow initiatives, and she has established a comprehensive diversity approach that supports an environment inclusive for all patients and caregivers. Through her extensive community outreach, Sparrow received the 2016 Diversity Star Award from the Lansing Economic Area Partnership. Among her many accomplishments, Simon was recognized

by MacDonald Broadcasting as a Lansing Legend and as a Woman of Achievement by the Lansing alumni chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. “I consider myself to be a servant leader,” Simon said. “My goal is to manage people up to reach their full potential and to ensure that they are fulfilled both personally and professionally. Being a servant leader is very important to me because it creates a work environment where employees at all levels feel respected and valued and are empowered to contribute to the organization’s success.”

Many women leaders throughout her career have inspired Simon on her journey to her current role, including family members, sorority sisters and leaders at Sparrow; “but the person that I must give credit to for setting me on this path is Jacqueline Thomas-Hall. She hired me in 2014 and saw something in me at that time I didn’t see in myself.

“My resiliency comes from knowing my worth and understanding my purpose,” said Simon. “I never allowed others to write my narrative or decide my worth. In all honesty, I’m where I’m today because someone else decided I couldn’t or shouldn’t lead their organization, which gave me the opportunity to lead another organization, which led me directly to my current leadership role. I’m an example of a woman who in many eyes may have lost a battle. But I won the war.”

A lifelong Lansing resident, Cindy Kangas is proud to have grown up with an appreciation for the community. Her experience includes nonprofit development, marketing and community relations. A key near-term priority for Kangas in her current role is to reach out to community stakeholders and explore partnerships that can help bring more awareness to the challenges and opportunities manufacturers face while operating in the capital region.

“I always look for leaders to coach, teach and mentor me,” Kangas said. “Similarly, I feel it’s important to coach, teach and mentor others. I’ve found great success in not only learning my job description but the job descriptions of those around me. It has taught me so many amazing skills and given me an appreciation for all aspects of the business.”

As a mom of four, Kangas has looked to women who have found the perfect work-home balance.

“I love when women make big things happen at work all day, then go home and drive the soccer car pool,” she said.

The confidence Kangas brings to the table has come with education.

“It’s important for me to be able to sit in a room full of people and not only listen to the conversation but contribute based on experience,” Kangas said.

“There will always be people who think your voice is not as valuable as others. Bless and release them.

“I have found great value in surrounding myself with other women who can lift me up when I’m struggling and be a sounding board when I have questions,” Kangas said.

1/2.22 | 517

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MICHELLE MASSEY

LISA CORLESS

SARAH ANTHONY

Vice President of Community Outreach and Customer Operations: TechSmith

President and CEO: AF Group

68th District Representative: Michigan Legislature

With over 25 years of information technology experience, Michelle Massey has extensive experience in community engagement, business operations, corporate planning, support and proposal development. Her current responsibilities include growing the philanthropic impact in K-12 education and engagement into science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields for underrepresented and underserved communities. In addition, she is responsible for TechSmith’s customer and technical support teams to maximize the impact of the customer support experience for clients.

“Seeking to understand is a key component of meeting people where they are at and leading in a manner that will get the most out of people and for them,” Massey said.

Prior to joining TechSmith, Massey worked at Dewpoint. A strong supporter of the Lansing region, Massey has sat on several boards and is currently on boards for the Lansing Art Gallery and Education Center, Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Wharton Center.

“My recent decision to leave my role after 15 years came from an evaluation and understanding of what was truly my passion and what I wanted to do in the next phase of my career,” she said.

Having a strong knowledge of self has been imperative.

“It is easier to evaluate situations and my response when I can keep the big picture in mind,” Massey said.

“Others may wonder why I choose not to engage, get riled up or become confrontational. It is because I have a deeper yes inside. So this requires a lot of confidence and being resilient.”

Massey’s advice for women in leadership roles is to be yourself.

“This doesn’t mean there aren’t areas to improve or lessons to be learned,” she said. “Don’t fundamentally change who you are in order to fit a mold of leadership.”

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Prior to her current promotion, Lisa Corless was a member of the AF Group executive team, serving as senior vice president, chief administration officer and chief of staff. Her impact and influence in insurance has earned her respect and several significant, professional honors, including the Woman of Influence Award from the Austin Business Journal and the 2017 Women to Watch Award from Business Insurance.

“My style has certainly evolved over the years, and the most important thing I’ve learned is to be authentic,” Corless said. “Early in my career, I tried to model my leadership after other leaders in an attempt to make their behaviors or style my own. But the feedback I got from my teams was, ‘Just be yourself.’

And this simple and obvious advice has really proven to be the best approach for me.”

Corless’ father served as her inspiration.

“He was the one who introduced me to the world of insurance many years ago,” Corless said. “He was caring, intelligent and was very good at connecting with others. But the single most important thing he taught me was the tremendous value of integrity.”

Corless gets her resiliency from experience.

“For me, confidence comes in the successes I’ve had, but also in the failures,” she said. “The successes have given me the assurance that my insights, intuition and decisions can result in great outcomes and progress; and the roadblocks and failures let me know that I need to keep trying and being creative.”

To women leaders, she said, “Don’t be afraid to take risks and put yourself out there. Be confident in your skills and experience, and embrace this confidence as you pursue the roles you really want.”

State Rep. Sarah Anthony is serving her second full term representing the 68th House District, which encompasses the city of Lansing and Lansing Township. In 2018, Anthony was sworn into a partial term after filling a special election, making history as the first African American woman to serve as state representative in Lansing’s history. She chairs the House Democratic Caucus and has been named Legislator of the Year

by Michigan Works! and the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association.

“I am a firm believer in servant leadership and try to empower those around me in any way I can — whether that is my team, community leaders or the residents I was elected to serve,” Anthony said. “Surrounding myself with a diverse array of voices and perspectives helps keep me informed and focused on serving my community above all else.”

Anthony’s first professional job was in the office of former state Rep. Joan Bauer.

“Watching her navigate a predominately male profession with strength, grace and effectiveness inspired me to explore a career in public service,” Anthony said. “I have also been inspired by the historic journey of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman to run for president of the United States. Her ability to build a coalition of women, working-class families and young people while emphasizing civility and consensus building is a blueprint I continue to follow today.”

She said she owes a great deal of her success to the wisdom and guidance of her mentors: “They’ve taught me to admit and accept my shortcomings and lean on the strengths and expertise of those around me when needed.”

Anthony said women should practice bringing all parts of themselves to the table.

“The world is best served when women lead with authenticity,” said Anthony.

F E ATU R E PAULA AUTRY

ORLENE HAWKS

Senior Vice President and CEO, Central Market: Henry Ford Health System; President and CEO: Henry Ford Allegiance Health

Director: Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

Paula Autry’s mission is to be herself and keep things real in her leadership style.

“I aim to always be myself and keep things real,” she said. “Trying to be someone else would be exhausting.”

When Autry began her journey with Henry Ford Health System in 2019, she took time to learn from the team and got to know local business, nonprofit, civic and faith-based leaders.

“I also listened to those we serve because our customers are at the heart of all we do,” Autry said.

Her interest in health care grew out of her early experiences with an older sister who had neurofibromas, a type of nerve tumor.

“I saw the strengths of the health care system, along with many opportunities for improvement,” Autry said. “From my parents, who were both educators, I was raised with an appreciation for the need to improve the health of our neighbors because the overall strength of a community depends on the health of its residents. That early understanding of the importance of community health helped to inform my career path.”

For Autry, confidence comes with experience and learning from mistakes.

“Resiliency is a product of having a deep understanding of your purpose — the ‘why’ behind what you do,” she said.

“When that why is your passion, it drives you to keep going. My why centers on a deep, personal sense of commitment and responsibility to my community.”

Autry said future leaders should study leaders they admire and aim to emulate them: “Be your authentic self, always. Ask questions. Become an excellent listener.”

Prior to joining LARA, Orlene Hawks led the state’s Operation Excellence project dealing with Child Protective Services investigations, served five years as the director of the Office of Children’s Ombudsman, and managed the quality and program services section in the Department of Community Health.

“I believe in being a servant leader,” Hawks said. “I want to empower the people around me to achieve their highest levels of success. I always encourage my team to prepare themselves for future opportunities that may arise during their professional career.”

Hawks has drawn inspiration from women and men who have enjoyed success.

“I appreciate leaders who have demonstrated unique qualities in seeking their goals,” Hawks said. “Leaders that I admire the most possess unbridled passion, determination, sincerity and focus in ways that inspire others to follow. The leaders that I respect the most possess an uncanny ability to balance the impulse to speak with their eagerness to learn through active listening.”

She achieved confidence by realizing the importance of being undeterred in pursuit of her professional and personal goals.

“As the saying goes: If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again,” said Hawks, who reminds future leaders not to be bashful in demonstrating the qualities, skills and confidence that have brought them to opportunity’s doorstep.

“As one of my mentors continues to remind me: ‘Act like you’ve been there,’” she said.

Leaders that I admire the most possess unbridled passion, determination, sincerity and focus in ways that inspire others to follow.

The leaders that I respect the most possess an uncanny ability to balance the impulse to speak with their eagerness to learn through active listening. ~ Orlene Hawks

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For the last 40 years, Children’s Trust Fund of Michigan has worked to give children across the state access to safe, bright futures by strengthening families.

As the only statewide organization solely focused on preventing child abuse and neglect across Michigan’s 83 counties, we have helped countless children by providing resources to help end a cycle of abuse. However, our goals are only reached through the caring support of residents like you. Every donation to CTF supports programs in your community that lift up local families and keeps children safer and happier.

Help champion your community this tax season by completing form 4642 and checking the box to Children’s Trust Fund — Prevent Child Abuse. Your actions inspire hope and health where you live.

Together, we can prevent child abuse and neglect.

We can make a difference.

business / TRENDS

WHY WOMEN LEADERS MATTER MORE VOICES AT THE TABLE IS IMPORTANT FOR ANY BUSINESS Despite growing public interest in seeing women advance in the workplace, they still remain underrepresented in the conference and board rooms across the United States. Just a few years back in 2019, women represented only 6.6% of Fortune 500 CEOs and 29% of senior management globally. Yet there are many reasons why it might be a good idea to keep those figures on a steady and steep incline.

IT’S GOOD FOR BUSINESS Deeper wells reach fresher waters.

Diversity in leadership is a key to good business because it allows a wider breadth in decision-making and relatability. One report from the Harvard Business School on the venture capital industry found that “the more similar the investment partners, the lower their investments’ performance.” Firms that increased their proportion of female partner hires by 10% saw, on average, a 1.5% spike in overall fund returns each year and had 9.7% more profitable exits.

THEY PUT OTHERS FIRST According to the Harvard Business Review, women are more likely to place the good of the team over their own selfinterests, allowing for higher performance and greater returns.

Where men are more prone to be more self-focused in their pursuits — be it a bigger paycheck, the corner office or higher social status — they tend to adopt a more self-centered style of leadership. Sometimes that comes at the sacrifice of the good of the team and the untapped potential of subordinates.

SUPERIOR LEADERSHIP VALUES In a survey of 2,250 adults by the Pew Research Center Social and Demographic Trends, women ranked better than or equal to men in seven of the eight primary leadership traits assessed throughout the survey.

Half of the respondents ranked women as more honest than men, with 20% saying that men are more honest than women. In terms of intelligence, 38% said they viewed women as smarter, with only 14% indicating men are smarter. Women also ranked as more compassionate, outgoing and creative.

FRESH OUTLOOKS AND PERSPECTIVES As noted, a diverse workforce opens doors to different thoughts and ideas, which means new levels of experience and perspective are coming to the conversation to contribute innovation into a business.

According to a blog from the software company Natural HR, “Women leaders will bring skills, different perspectives and innovative ideas to the table, but these three combined will help create new perspectives that lead to better decisionmaking as a whole for the business.”

WOMEN NEED ROLE MODELS Having more voices at the table is beneficial to any gender; however, women in leadership posts provide younger generations with the support they need to advance in careers. In a report by the Rockefeller Foundation, two-thirds of Americans said it’s highly important to them that younger women starting their careers have more women in leadership positions as role models. That desire was especially strong among millennial women, with 82% of women younger than 35 noting the significance.

Sources: weforum.org/agenda/2020/03/more-women-in-leadership-shouldnt-matter-but-it-really-does/, hbr.org/2020/04/7-leadership-lessons-men-can-learnfrom-women, pewresearch.org/social-trends/2008/08/25/men-or-women-whos-the-better-leader/, naturalhr.com/2021/03/23/10-reasons-why-the-world-needsmore-women-in-leadership-roles/ and rockefellerfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/Women-in-Leadership-Why-It-Matters.pdf.

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PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 517 REGION Ele’s Place is a nonprofit, communitybased organization dedicated to creating awareness of and support for grieving children and their families.

Paul Kearney

Kearney Appointed to Ele’s Place Board Paul Kearney, chief claims officer for AF Group, was recently appointed to the community board of Ele’s Place Capital Region.

“As Ele’s Place celebrates 30 years of serving grieving children and teens in the capital region, I am very honored to have the opportunity to serve on Ele’s Place Capital Region community board,” Kearney said. “With more than 31,000 individuals having received grief support at no cost to them, I know that Ele’s Place has had a significant impact on our community and will continue to do so for many years to come. I look forward to being able to assist in this endeavor.”

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Arts Council Announces Grant Recipients The Arts Council of Greater Lansing announced grant funding totaling $22,900 for Greater Lansing artists and arts organizations.

Each fall the arts council administers the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs Professional or Organizational Development and Arts Projects Mini-grants to area artists and arts organizations.

Additionally, the Lansing arts council awards its own cycle of grants, including the Young Creatives Grants, which are funded by the Arts Advancement Endowment Fund and Michigan State University Federal Credit Union. The local grants provide funding and scholarships for youth arts programming in the region. This year, the Chris Clark Fellowship Program for Creative Professionals grants were established through a legacy gift from Lansingarea native Chris Clark.

“We are so pleased to award these grants to our area artists and arts organizations,” said Meghan Martin, Lansing arts council executive director. “They have had many challenges since the beginning of the pandemic, and these funds will allow them to grow in their work and in their offerings to the community while giving them some financial breathing room.”

The grants assist in covering costs for projects, supplies, conference and workshop fees, and other support for work. Grants were awarded through each of the following program initiatives: • The MCACA POD Mini-grant funding totaling $3,750 for was awarded to Amber Sheerin of the Michigan Library Association, the Lansing Art Gallery and Olivia Furhman.

• The MCACA Arts Project Mini-grant funding totaling $7,400 was awarded to Peckham Vocational Industries and the Lansing School District.

• The Young Creatives Grant funding totaling $7,500 for was awarded to Allof-us Express Children’s Theatre, the Lansing Art Gallery and Education Center, the Lansing Children’s Choir, the Lansing Symphony Orchestra, the Michigan State University Writing Center, and REACH Studio Art Center.

• The Chris Clark Fellowship funding totaling $8,000 was awarded to Hrant Bagrazyan, Michelle Carlson, Seth Ebersole, Sam Gould, Keyonie James, Mike Marriott and Masaki Takahashi.

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McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation

McLaren Receives $2,500 from Conquest Fitness Conquest Fitness recently presented a check for $2,500 to the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation. The funds were raised during Cancer Awareness Month to support cancer care at McLaren Greater Lansing Hospital.

“Cancer is a vicious disease, and nearly all of us are affected by it at some point in our lives,” said Lynn Griffor, vice president of the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation. “We’re touched Conquest Fitness and its patrons so generously came together to bring hope to the lives of over 1,000 people McLaren Greater Lansing treats in our Karmanos Cancer Institute each year.”

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Griffor said the gift would help the hospital provide financial assistance, gas and groceries to those being treated at McLaren. This gift will allow patients to receive care packages as they begin their journey toward survivorship.

“My partners and I are always looking for ways to help people in the Lansing area become life-ready and improve their health and wellness beyond the doors of Conquest Fitness,” said Andre Hutson, co-owner of Conquest Fitness.

“As a member of the McLaren Greater Lansing Hospital board, I hear about the health care battles people are fighting every day. Cancer is one of the most devastating diseases there is. We raised this money to help make the fight against cancer as painless and hopeful as possible.”

Granger Promotes Anderson to COO Granger Waste Services promoted Paul Anderson to chief operating officer.

Paul Anderson Anderson joined the company in 2002.

“Paul has been a steady leader at Granger for many years,” said Keith Granger, CEO. “He has played a critical role in our operations throughout our most significant period of growth. His leadership style, knowledge and experience, as well as his relationships with our associates, will help guide our company forward.”

As chief operating officer, Anderson will collaborate with the CEO in setting and driving organizational vision, operational strategy and future direction of the company; take the lead on expansion activities; and oversee and coordinate the entire operation of the organization toward the achievement of established policies, goals and operating objectives.

“Leadership happens at every level of the company,” said Anderson. “I was given the chance to start on the front line and learn all aspects of the organization. Granger supported my growth professionally and academically to shape me into the leader I am today. I look forward to working with Keith and the leadership team to drive the company’s vision and commitment to being Michigan’s most reliable trash and recycling provider.”

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SEEING IN THE MOUTH WITH SUPER-POWERED EYES Your Preventive Dental Visit is Taking on New Level of Importance Have you noticed that when your physician looks in your mouth, he or she looks right past your lips to the back of your throat? Even if he scans your mouth, chances are he can’t recognize the early signs of periodontal disease, caries disease (decay), oral cancer, or occlusal disease (wear, cracks, fractures, or tooth mobility). Your dentist, on the other hand, looks in your mouth with trained eyes and sees it all. Both your physician and your dentist, as is human nature, see only what they expect to see!

But what if we could look in your mouth with super-powered eyes and immediately see an array of other signs—signs of early systemic diseases/disorders such as diabetes, sleep apnea, heart disease, acid reflux, food sensitivities, fungal infections, drug/alcohol dependency, multiple drug interactions/side effects, vitamin deficiencies, cancer-causing viruses, or depression? The good news is, we can!

Oh, what the mouth can tell us about the body! By discovering early signs of systemic conditions, we can predict negative outcomes and help you preempt major disease—at every age.

Today the new patient exam begins under 1 year of age, because 2 is too late. Eight percent of 2-year-olds and 33% of 3-year-olds already have active decay, and many are well on their way toward a lifetime of obstructed breathing.

The infant oral exam includes a significant dialogue with your child’s caregivers, helping you understand up-to-date concepts on raising healthy children. For example, most don’t know that caries is 100% preventable if we can prevent saliva transmission. So is childhood obesity if we can give you a few learnable food rules.

Child exams might now include a summary of growth and behavior change: home care skills/ habits, posterior airway and lip closure analysis, diet/nutrition counsel, early signs of depression, and even a letter of information and/or advocacy to your child’s physician.

An adult new patient visit should begin with a significant dialogue, which helps your dentist to learn your personal story of dental and medical history, current frustrations, imagined solutions, and what level of systemic health/oral health/ function/esthetics you are personally seeking.

When you’re finally examined, ask your dentist to help you recognize all that the head/ face/mouth is telling you. We now have a plethora of advanced technologies to help—for example, salivary diagnostics. From a single drop of saliva, we can detect bacteria that travel to nest in blood vessels and vital organs, genetic biomarkers of periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, acid output of the bugs that make cavities, underlying fungal infections, and HPV—the leading cause of oral cancer. We can also monitor pre-diabetes and diabetes from a single drop of blood in less than five minutes.

Make sure you don’t miss a checkup … your dental exam has never been more valuable.

Dr. Susan Maples is a dentist in Holt.

She is also a speaker, health educator and author of “BlabberMouth!”, “Brave Parent”, and President of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health. Reach her at Susan@ DrSusanMaples.com

Our Mission Is:

• To treat each person with integrity, respect, and kindness.

• To help each person take a significant step toward his or her desired oral and systemic health.

• To serve as leaders in our community in the quest towards total-health promotion and the partnership between all health professionals.

www.Total-Health-Dentistry.com

(517) 694-0353

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board meeting materials, saving the college time and money. She has actively served on many college committees, personnel search committees and interview panels.

Benita Duncan

Duncan Leads Professional Board Staff Network The Professional Board Staff Network has elected Benita Duncan, executive assistant and board liaison for Lansing Community College, as president. She is the first Black woman to ascend to the position of president for the executive committee of the ACCT Professional Board Staff Network.

The network is a national-level resource for those who support governing boards or presidents of community colleges.

“Behind every great CEO there is an exceptional executive assistant serving — but, more importantly, leading and working confidently with their CEO and peers with diplomacy and influence,” said Duncan. “I am extremely humbled and honored to serve as the first Black president. Being the president of the PBSN allows me to serve my peers on a national level. Part of my responsibilities will include leading our team with the planning for our upcoming conference in New York City next year.”

The Lansing native and Howard University graduate manages the day-to-day operations of the LCC board of trustees office and is the primary contact person for individuals seeking to communicate with the board. She led the effort to transition to a paperless system for

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CASE Makes Donation to Youth Haven As part of its community outreach and giving efforts, CASE Credit Union recently presented Youth Haven with a check for $5,028. The funds were raised by credit union employees throughout the third quarter of 2021.

Youth Haven’s mission is to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of disadvantaged children. That includes boys and girls living in foster care, single-parent families or low-income homes, as well as children who have experienced abuse, neglect, gang violence or even a parent in prison.

“The continued support from our staff demonstrates our commitment to improving our communities in which we live and work,” said Jeffrey Benson, president and CEO of CASE Credit Union.

Warner Ranked Top-Tier Law Firm Warner Norcross + Judd LLP has been ranked one of the 2022 “Best Law Firms” by Best Lawyers and U.S. News and World Report.

The firm was recognized for its litigation work in the areas of regulatory enforcement and environmental law. Additionally, six of its offices received top-tier ratings in multiple practice areas. The rankings are based on an evaluation process that includes the collection of client and lawyer evaluations; peer reviews from leading attorneys; and other criteria, such as firm practice areas, expertise, responsiveness, integrity, litigation and major legal matters, cost-effectiveness, civility, pro bono commitment, and diversity.

Best Lawyers, which produces an annual peer review of attorneys, has teamed with U.S. News and World Report for nine years to conduct extensive surveys of attorneys

included in the rankings and gather feedback from clients on the evaluation criteria.

Mercantile Expands Commercial Lending Team Mercantile Bank added a team of commercial lenders to its Grand Rapids and Lansing markets as well as expanded its footprint with the addition of a northern Michigan commercial lending team.

Leading the expansion to the Traverse City/northern Michigan area as vice presidents and commercial lenders are Aaron Davenport and Jason Schramski.

Bringing additional talent to the Grand Rapids/Lansing area are Mike Bishop, senior vice president and commercial lender; Brian Campbell, first vice president and commercial lender; Steve Bosscher, first vice president and commercial lender; and Greg Adkins, first vice president and commercial lender.

Hesse Named Chief Nursing Officer at Sparrow Clinton Sparrow Clinton Hospital has named Mariah Hesse as chief nursing officer.

Mariah Hesse She has provided compassionate nursing care and leadership for nearly three decades at Sparrow Clinton.

“I have been very fortunate to serve our community at Sparrow Clinton Hospital for the past 29 years,” Hesse said. “I am proud to work with such an outstanding group of caregivers in our organization, and I look forward to continuing to support quality, compassionate care in my new role.”

Hesse’s most recent leadership role has been interim chief nursing officer and community hospital representative for the Sparrow COVID Incident Command Center.

2. Review your budget and loan rates Take a look at your budget and see if you need to make any adjustments, such as reducing your gas budget because you’re working from home a few days a week. Also, you may be able to save money by refinancing your car or home loan to a lower interest rate.

3. Maximize your credit card rewards

A new year offers new possibilities. You can make 2022 a better year for you financially with these five financial New Year’s resolutions.

Maximize the rewards from your credit card by using it to pay for monthly expenses. Then, pay it off each month with funds set aside for these expenses, and reap the rewards without adding to your debt. Cash back is the most flexible rewards option as you can use it to purchase whatever you’d like.

1. Pay yourself first

4. Pay down your debt

Accomplish this by contributing to your 401(k) or IRA, savings accounts, or an emergency fund before you pay other expenses. If your employer offers a match for its 401(k), make sure you contribute enough to qualify.

Create a plan to reduce your debt.

To accomplish this, you could make an extra payment each month, consolidate the debt into a

Five Financial New Year’s Resolutions You Can Keep

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Having a will ensures your assets are distributed to the people you choose.

Once your will is created, review it periodically to make needed updates.

MSUFCU is here to help you with your financial resolutions. Our mobile app, low-interest rate loans, and our Visa Signature® cash back credit card are some of the many options we offer to assist you with your financial goals.

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Chief Marketing Officer MSU Federal Credit Union deidre.davis@msufcu.org | 517-333-2424 Headquarters: 3777 West Rd., East Lansing, MI 48823

and it shows in everything we do.

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5. Create or update your will

WE’RE PROFESSIONALS —

By Deidre Davis, MSU Federal Credit Union’s Chief Marketing Officer

lower-interest rate loan, or reduce spending on other items and apply those funds to the debt.

Ownership. Pride. Responsibility.

Your job. Done right.

S P E C I A L A DV E R T I S E M E N T

VOICES, VIBES & VISION: RADIO BUILDS COMMUNITY AT LANSING’S COLLEGE

BY ANDY BRENT

Community radio is a powerful resource. It communicates through broadcast the thoughts and feelings of neighbors who are otherwise unknown to us, and in so doing creates a bond of shared knowledge and experience. Community radio has the power to unite, because all may hear it, equally.

Since 1994, WLNZ has made community radio possible in Lansing. The station’s diverse voices created original shows featuring local music, cultural conversations and opportunities for dialog about issues intimately relevant to those listening. From its broadcast, WLNZ established a community in and of itself, consisting of dedicated broadcasters and engaged volunteers dedicated to telling Lansing’s story through Lansing’s sound.

On January 8, LCC Radio begins a new chapter in its existence. Michigan Radio, a public radio station licensed to the University of Michigan, has formalized a management and programming agreement with LCC that will expand Michigan Radio’s coverage to include WLNZ. Because WLNZ is vital to local news and culture, the agreement assures LCC will continue to produce and air local programming on WLNZ each week, at 1 p.m. on Saturdays and 6 p.m. on Sundays.

This programming, called LCC Connect, spotlights college academic programs and events, with news, information and interviews relevant to the community at large.

Photography by Kevin Fowler

Michigan Radio’s agreement with LCC makes WLNZ the first Lansing-area radio station to include Michigan Radio programming.

“Michigan Radio is excited to expand our presence in the Greater Lansing area with the addition of WLNZ 89.7 FM,” said Steve Schram, Executive Director and General Manager of Michigan Radio. “This innovative partnership with LCC will allow more people to have access to news and information on a clear and local FM signal.”

In presenting the voices, vibes and vision of LCC through original content and engaging conversations, LCC Connect links the educational mission of LCC with its mission of diversity and service by exploring LCC’s efforts to forge a more inclusive and welcoming world. Collaborating with Michigan Radio’s comprehensive news network, WLNZ seeks to provide a uniquely local option for radio listeners.

“This is an exciting new chapter for WLNZ,” LCC Broadcast Services Manager Daedalian Lowry said.

“Not only will Michigan Radio provide the Lansing community with an additional reliable news source, but this transition also provides LCC with an opportunity to develop some incredible informational programs that we otherwise wouldn’t have the ability to create.”

Michigan Radio has been on the air since 1948, and was one of the first radio stations to be administered by a college or university. Michigan Radio programming includes local, national and international news from American Public Media, National Public Radio and the BBC. Additionally, Michigan Radio produces and distributes its own local journalism content with an awarding-winning team of journalists based at news bureaus in Ann Arbor, Detroit, Flint, and Grand Rapids.

“Not only will Michigan Radio provide the Lansing community with an additional reliable news source, but this transition also provides LCC with an opportunity to develop some incredible informational programs that we otherwise wouldn’t have the ability to create.”

LCC’s original programming is robust, ambitious, and dedicated to topics that matter to people and students in Lansing. Individual time slots – hosted by LCC staff, faculty and students – will explore cohesive subject matter through accessible conversations.  “Community Conversations” explores economic, business and community development. Hosted by Bo Garcia, LCC’s dean of community education and workforce development (CEWD), the program’s content is specific to Lansing and Tri-county area employers and employees, and aspects the region’s business development that can positively impact their lives.  From a more academic perspective, “Galaxy Forum,” is a program focused on academic programs at LCC and their real-life impact in terms of citizenship, economics, community-building and the realization of students’ dreams.

Host Melissa Kaplan discusses topics ranging from climate change to cybersecurity as “Galaxy Forum” seeks to explain how what we learn today affects our collective future.  Continuing the theme of community conversations is “Shining Stars,” an interview-based program highlighting connections between LCC and individuals creating positive change within our local world. Hosted by Daedalian Lowery, “Shining Stars” focuses on positive interactions and good done in Lansing, and serves to remind Lansing there is a lot of good in the world, often right on our own doorstep.  Additionally, LCC Connect provides the community a chance to hear from the employees of LCC about how the college moves Lansing forward. “Who’s That Star?” is hosted by LCC CEWD’s Julianna Blain and connects listeners with LCC employees’ lives and important work within Lansing’s communities.

Michigan Radio is already broadcasting on WLNZ’s airwaves, and will be joined by LCC Connect on January 8. Stories, host information and more is available at lcc.edu/connect.

Visit lcc.edu/connect in the new year, and treat yourself to the voices, vibes and vision of Lansing Community College.

business / STATE/NATIONAL

A BRIEF LOOK AT STATE AND NATIONAL NEWS AFFECTING OUR REGION

HUMAN FACTOR STILL DRIVES BUSINESS GROWTH

BY RICH ADAMS

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every aspect of our lives. Now, as a new normal begins to materialize, companies are striving to accomplish a business-as-usual stance.

The pandemic has forced businesses to depend more on robotics, according to Reuters. Automation keeps factories running without compromising the health and safety of workers.

Yet the human factor will be dominant as businesses ramp up, according to an IBM report on post-coronavirus businesses. The largest parts of an organization’s expected growth are those centered around employees and customers, the report concludes.

That human aspect is at the forefront for Bissell Homecare Inc., headquartered in west Michigan. To address the need to work differently, the 145-year-old vacuum cleaner and home care company has shifted its recruiting system to focus on three pillars, with the people factor among them.

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That has resulted in a new approach to hiring, which has seen the talent pool grow.

“We have been hiring more than ever. Bissell has seen a 96% increase in hiring globally in 2021 over 2020,” said Wendy Mazoway, head of Bissell’s global talent acquisition “How did we do it? We looked at how we had been interacting with talent, and recognized we had to adjust our approach to be successful in the dynamic global marketplace.

“We moved from generalized roles to specialized roles — letting people focus on subject matter expertise and to realize efficiencies in focused work,” she said.

While technology has played a role in recruiting workers, Mazoway said success is still focused on people.

“No matter how technology and automation change, successful recruiting never does — it is always human,” she said.

GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS REFLECT DIVERSITY INEQUITY

CREATING BETTER SALES THROUGH OMNICHANNEL

BY CHRISTINE MACINTYRE

BY JACK TANY

Diversity is instrumental in substantial growth; yet while recognized among communities and even in the business sector, inequity muddies the waters for businesses seeking government contracts.

Among the businesses that receive $660 billion in government contracts each year, the distribution of contractual awards reflects a sharp contrast in equitable distribution.

The most common ethnicity of government contractors is white (77.4%), followed by Hispanic or Latino (14.4%) and Black or African American (3.5%).

LGBT government contractors only make up 8%.

Further, female government contractors earn only 89 cents for every $1 earned by males.

The benefits of government contracts for private businesses include securing more work and bolstering revenue. However, the bidding process is not always cut and dry, especially for members of marginalized business groups.

Nazeera Dawood, cofounder and CEO of Vendorship Inc., which specializes in assisting businesses to identify and secure government contracts, is a proponent of equal rights.

“That means helping our diverse group of talented clients win lucrative opportunities as government contractors,” she said.

The company advocates for clients and guides them through the maze of red tape.

The lack of equity among government contract awardees stems from factors including unfamiliarity of the process of doing business with the government, cultural inhibitions, absence of a competitive proposal and no track record.

Additionally, small businesses belonging to minorities often lack the in-house resources, hindering their response to government contracting opportunities.

“We want to live in healthy, thriving and vibrant communities run by informed, efficient government entities on all levels, enabled by local and hyperlocal talent and innovation,” Dawood said. “All ethnicities, genders and geographies must be championed for resulting in collaborations with qualified, educated professionals and companies to secure these lucrative opportunities.”

Remember that old business adage that sales is simply a numbers game? Omnichannel marketing is set to take that adage to an entirely higher level.

Omnichannel is the practice of using various types of channels to serve customers and prospects. It is built on the premise that underlying data is automatically updated, triggering messaging across all channels.

It is a multichannel approach to sales that focuses on providing seamless customer experience whether the client is shopping online from a mobile device or a laptop, or in an actual brick-and-mortar store. Omnichannel enables business operations such as: • Both in-person and online point-of-sale transactions.

• Customer support through digital channels, such as live chat or email, phone and face to face.

“We’re a full-service marketing business, and we develop integrated marketing plans and ideas for our customers,” said Marisa Horak Belotti, president of Saginaw-based F.P. Horak Co., a print and marketing solutions organization in the Great Lakes Bay Region of Michigan that offers a wide variety of technologically advanced print and marketing services aimed at providing solutions to challenges clients face in today’s marketplace.

Belotti explained that when you are leveraging data, you’re being more relevant — and the end result is that your customer is going to have a better return on investment.

“Omnichannel, or integrated marketing, provides data from customers and leverages that pointed data when making marketing decisions,” she said. “It boils down to precision targeting where customers live, work, where they shop, etc.”

According to the Harvard Business Review, 73% of all customers use multiple channels during their purchase journey.

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business / ON THE RECORD

CAREER CHANGES, COOKIES AND CONFECTIONS ON THE RECORD WITH COURTNEY GORDON OF COCO’S CONFECTIONS

BY MARY GAJDA

Like many, DeWitt resident Courtney Gordon was happy enough in her job, having been the event director at The MTG Space, a Lansing meeting facility, for seven years. When the pandemic struck, Gordon, a wife and mother to 17-year-old twins, found she had more downtime on her hands and searched for things to fill her time.

“I spent most of 2020 (at home) baking bread, growing basil, practicing my guitar, knitting and watching ‘Hamilton,’” Gordon said. “In the fall, I took an online cookie decorating class with a friend, just for something to do. I discovered I have a knack for baking and decorating sugar cookies, and have been hooked ever since.”

The cookies Gordon had a knack for are the very popular cookies that are technically frosted with royal icing. Her steady hand and creative prowess allowed her to progress quickly in her new skill. Gordon began sharing photos of cookies she made for friends and family, and she began getting cookie requests from people she didn’t even know. After some research, she adopted a side hustle called Coco’s Confections that eventually grew exponentially. In August, Gordon left her fulltime job to focus on her new business.

“It was, and still is, scary to give up my guaranteed salary and benefits, but so far things are going great,” Gordon said.

Currently, Gordon follows state regulations to work from her own space, but a brick-and-mortar Coco’s Confections could happen someday.

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BATTER UP

DEWITT RESIDENT COURTNEY GORDON TURNED A PANDEMIC HOBBY INTO A BUDDING BAKING BUSINESS WITH COCO’S CONFECTIONS.

“That’s definitely a goal of mine,” Gordon said, “but not in the immediate future. Right now, I’m working on figuring out exactly what I want Coco’s Confections to be. I enjoy making custom orders because helping people celebrate their special occasions is why I started. I have also found that I love teaching cookie decorating classes. And having my own booth at local small-business markets has been really rewarding. There’s such an amazing community of small-business owners and makers in our area, and I love being a part of it.”

Beyond royal-icing skills, Gordon has spent countless hours researching and learning different techniques and skills over the past 10 months. You can find her creations throughout the area.

“I’ve been a vendor at all of the Bridge + Main outdoor markets in DeWitt this year, which has been amazing,” Gordon said.

She has also held pop-up shops at Twiggies in Old Town as well as Ham Sweet Farm in Williamston and Twisted Craft Cocktails in DeWitt.

“I’m hoping to be able to add a few of the other larger local markets to my calendar in 2022,” she said.

Gordon also plans to offer more than sugar cookies in her repertoire.

“Meringue pops are quickly becoming a crowd favorite, and I’m excited to be adding macarons to my menu in 2022,” she said.

Find Gordon on Facebook at @CocosConfections517 and on the web at cocosconfections517.com.

business / PERSPECTIVES PERSPECTIVE

WORKING TO CONNECT TO NONPROFITS

BY KYLE DOWLING

A Q & A WITH KIRSTYN WALDRON, CORPORATE PHILANTHROPY MANAGER AT JACKSON

Q& A

Tell me a little bit about your passion for giving back.

Growing up, I spent a lot of time volunteering. I learned from a young age that I was really fortunate and not everyone had the same opportunities as me. As I grew older, I found I became more and more motivated to help people, and my work at Jackson has only served to further strengthen that motivation.

It is so incredibly fulfilling working day in and day out with nonprofits in the community to further their important work. I am so lucky.

How do you personally give back to your community and what groups are you involved with?

Through my work at Jackson, I have had the opportunity to volunteer with so many different nonprofits supporting the Lansing community. This has led to longstanding personal volunteer roles such as serving on event committees for Big Brothers Big Sisters and Junior Achievement, helping plan and execute their annual fundraising events. I have also served on the Ele’s Race committee for seven years, helping raise money to support the important mission helping grieving families in our community.

In addition to the work I do with local nonprofits, I also served on the Central Michigan Public Relations Society of America board of directors as a director at large and as membership chair. Finally, I have been given the opportunity to serve as a creative strategist for Lansing 5:01, helping to showcase the opportunities Lansing has to offer and retain young talent here — something I am particularly passionate about. All these roles have allowed me to better connect with the Lansing community while meeting other like-minded mid-Michigan enthusiasts. I look forward to continuing to get involved with more organizations and initiatives in the future.

How do you feel about winning a 10 Over the Next Ten Award?

Winning 10 Over the Next Ten was truly an honor. There are so many incredible young people doing amazing work in the Lansing community, including my fellow award recipients. To have even been nominated is an achievement, but to actually win is really exciting and motivates me to contribute even more in the community.

What plans do you have for the future?

I look forward to continuing to support the Lansing community through both my work at Jackson and also personally through service. I am eager to continue to integrate into the Lansing community and become more involved.

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business / BIZ TIPS

FROM JUNE CLEAVER TO THE C-LEVEL SUITE The Journey for Gender Equality Continues

BY TEDI R. PARSONS PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE PROFESSIONALS FORUM LLC

In the 1950s and 1960s, June Cleaver was the epitome of the modern housewife. She vacuumed while wearing heels and pearls and was forever tending to the needs of Ward, Wally and the Beaver. The days of June Cleaver have long passed, and women are taking the C-level suite by storm. But has the journey for gender equality changed much over decades?

According to a 2020 report by McKinsey & Co., since 2015, progress toward gender equality has been marginal, and the pandemic has forced women around the globe to step back and reexamine their roles, both at home and in the workplace. In the report, McKinsey & Co. found that women in the United States still do almost twice as much unpaid care work as men (54% of women and 22% of men report doing all or most of the housework) and 43% of women who are the primary household earners continue to do all or most of the housework.

The pandemic has impacted us all — but women are not only working full time, they are

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also juggling day care issues and serving as their children’s education provider.

When it comes to the gender pay gap, the trend has remained relatively the same in the nation over the past 15 years, with women earning 84% of what men earned, as reported by the Pew Research Center’s 2020 analysis of median hourly earnings of women who work both full and part time. The report found that it would take an extra 42 days of work for women to earn what men did in 2020. Additionally, current research has found that 41 out of 500 (or 8%) CEOs are women. These blatant disparities exist even with women earning degrees at a higher rate than men, yet they are largely still barred from breaking the glass ceiling and making it to the C-suite.

“Over the last 10-25 years, more women have had the opportunity to step into leadership roles and have their hard work and perseverance recognized,” said Carrie

Rosingana, CEO of Capital Area Michigan Works! “These women leaders highlight that workplace success is achievable for everyone and serve as an inspiration of future generations of leaders to come. I am proud as a woman leader regionally to continue the momentum of this shift in leadership culture, to have a place at the table to share my input and ideas, and to have an opportunity to use my skills to help shape opportunities that better the community I’m so fortunate to be a part of.”

Although outdated stereotypes of women are rightfully assigned to the past, women continue to fight for their rightful place at the top in today’s workplace. It’s imperative that we all support the journey to equality, ensuring that young girls and women have equal pay and fair opportunities for generations to come. Join us at theprosforum.com to learn more about how we can help you grow, prosper and succeed.

lifestyle

PLACES p.34 GOOD READS p.36 RECIPE p.37 HOME HELPERS p.38 POLL p.40 NONPROFIT p.46 PLAY p.47

BLACK HISTORY HAPPENS YEAR-ROUND For any group that has felt marginalized, it feels like the immediate solution is education. That may come in the form of a month or a special day. But is that enough? We know it’s not. When we talk about Black history, sure, it’s great that there is a focus on the accomplishments of Black pioneers. The icons that made change, inspired change and ultimately affected the course of history should be recognized and remembered. But truth be told, history is made every day and should be recognized every day. While we honor and celebrate Black History Month in February, we invite our readers to immerse themselves in Black history daily.

An inclusive society is one that recognizes we all belong, and we each can play a role in empowering one another not just during a special month, but 365 days a year.

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lifestyle / PLACES

A CIDER HOUSE THAT RULES

BOSS CIDER IS WORTH THE TRIP TO LESLIE PHOTOS AND ARTICLE BY METRO MELIK

t ent a cont more G.COM A 517M

did you know?

• • •

Cider is made in 60 to 90 days.

Cider has more options for gluten-free and sugar-free.

Boss Cider was awarded three medals in the 2020 U.S. Open Cider Championships: gold for Going North, an apple cherry hard cider in the cherry category; silver for Satine, a cranberry hard cider in the cranberry category; and bronze for Full Auto, an apple jalapeno hard cider in the anything-goes category.

There’s a homeyness upon arrival. You might forget this is a place of business, instead mistaking it for the welcoming space hosted by a family member or friend.

Entering Boss Cider Co., 139 S. Main St. in Leslie, is like entering a living room in a home that is prepared to entertain dozens of people. The decor is bright without being overbearing. I half expected a grandmotherly person to gently suggest for me to take off my hat and coat and place myself wherever I felt comfortable — and if you arrive during open hours, that just may happen.

Boss Cider is a family business. Founded

by Jim and Megan Every, Jim Every’s mother, a retired schoolteacher and a former General

Motors employee, is a co-owner and one of the managers of the establishment.

Jim Every has 20 years of experience making wine and beer, and he often frequented wine tours. When talking with people, he noticed a common thread: Everyone was happy. That emotion serves as the cornerstone for Boss Cider.

The name comes his desire to have a business that encourages people to be their own boss in life. He wants his business to empower people to do what they do well. Although the atmosphere is wonderfully welcoming, the magic can be found in the cider.

There are 14 ciders on tap that are done in-house. One of the first things visitors may notice is the effervescence of the cider. Ciders

often have big bubble carbonation, but Boss Cider’s offerings cascade throughout the mouth with a velvety flavor that explodes in the most pleasing of ways.

Boss uses all-natural ingredients, which means much more than using natural flavorings.

The products distinctively have no aftertaste.

There’s only the natural flavor of goodness.

Yet all that refreshment needs to wash something down, which is why there is a diverse menu of snacks, shareables, salads, sliders, burgers, pasta and pizza.

Be your own boss and treat yourself to a trip to an oasis that uses the magic of alchemy to satisfy your cravings in the most delightful of ways.

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lifestyle / GOOD READS

WORDS OF WISDOM 5 GOOD READS FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS LEADERSHIP ROLES

BY 517 STAFF

Times have changed and good leaders increasingly must work on their skills, from understanding social skills, making quick decisions with authority, mastering delegation and adapting to ever-changing human relations, to name a few.

If you’re climbing the corporate ladder but need support or guidance, a good read can help you set goals, reconnect with values you may have lost along the way and remind you how to keep momentum on your career track.

WE FOUND FIVE GOOD READS FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS LEADERSHIP ROLES WE BELIEVE CAN BE HELPFUL.

1. “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance” by Angela Duckworth

Using case studies and interviews with high achievers, “Grit” is a guide to increasing resilience in any field with passion and perseverance — and a little bit of neuroscience thrown in for good measure.

2. “How Remarkable Women Lead: The Breakthrough Model for Work and Life” by Joanna Barsh and Susie Cranston

What drives and sustains successful women leaders? Personal stories and insights are part of this good read, which also shares the links between joy, happiness and distinctive performance.

3. “Lead from the Outside” by Stacey Abrams There are plenty of challenges that hinder women, especially if they are Black, members of the LGBTQ community, etc. Abrams breaks

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down how things like fear and failure function within leadership and shows you that you are indeed enough for your leadership role.

4. “The Likeability Trap: How to Break Free and Succeed as You Are”

by Alicia Menende

This one really hits home for women in an impossible position at work. If they are strong-willed, they are called cold and calculating.

If they have a softer approach, they are seen as pushovers. This book empowers women leaders to let go of old roles and own their own management style.

5. “The Little Black Book of Success: Laws of Leadership for Black Women” by Elaine Meryl Brown

True leadership requires self-confidence, communication, collaboration and courage — and Elaine Meryl Brown dives in with advice on playing and winning the game in whatever career you’ve chosen.

lifestyle / RECIPE

FLORAL WHITE-CHOCOLATE BARK BRING A LITTLE SWEET ROMANCE TO THE TABLE WHAT YOU NEED:

INSTRUCTIONS:

• 1 pound of white melting chocolate • Lay out parchment paper on a baking sheet.

• Oil-based food coloring • Slowly begin to melt your chocolate in the microwave. Start with 15-second intervals so it doesn’t burn. Stir, and repeat until melted.

• Edible flowers • Mix in color until you get the desired shade or tone.

• Colored sugar • Evenly spread the chocolate over the parchment paper in the baking pan.

• Sprinkle colored sugar gently all over the chocolate, followed by

• White melting chocolate • Oil-based food coloring (Wilton brand works

well)

• Edible flowers (try Whole

Foods near the pro duce/ floral area, Horrocks or order online) • Colored sugar • Baking sheet • Parchment paper

edible flowers.

• Cool 1 hour in refrigerator.

• Break up into pieces and serve.

Serves 12

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lifestyle / HOME HELPERS

SHRINK WRAP THOSE WINDOWS This is a well-known go-to for keeping drafts to a minimum. As tedious as it is to hang, it is one of the first things you should try when you realize your home has a draft.

REVERSE YOUR CEILING FAN Many people don’t realize the ceiling fan’s job is not just to help cool a room by circulating the air, but it can also help bring heated air down to a lower level in large rooms with high slopes or cathedral ceilings. The trick is you must have a reversable blade with a button to reverse the rotation. You also have to run it on its lowest speed.

MOVE YOUR FURNITURE Is your furniture blocking the flow of heat into your room? Did you know with forced-air you can actually house a pressure imbalance in your whole heating system if one portion is blocked? Either move your furniture or consider placing vent extenders and deflectors to help the heat move to where it belongs.

DODGING THE DRAFT 6 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR HOUSE WARM THIS WINTER BY 517 STAFF There’s a chill in the air. The problem is it’s inside your home. You know that new, more efficient windows or blown insulation in the attic or walls might be the answer. Your best bet is to call in a professional to determine where your problem is coming from and options to fix it.

In the meantime, here are a few ways you can keep your home toasty while you’re waiting for your appointment or saving up money for the work.

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CLOSE CURTAINS AT NIGHT Daytime sun may help heat your home; however, as the sun sets, it gets colder. Curtains provide a little added protection by covering leaking air near window frames. A heavier, insulated curtain could make a big difference in keeping the cold out.

LAY DOWN RUGS Not only will rugs help keep your feet warmer while walking through your home on uncarpeted floors, laying them down can also help insulate your home and reduce drafts that might creep through your floorboards.

CLOSE YOUR FLUE It’s surprising how many people don’t think about how much warm air they lose through the fireplace flue when there is no fire burning. You may as well have a window open! When your fireplace is not in use, make sure your flue is closed.

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lifestyle / BEST OF...

best of

WOMEN LEADERS

BY MARY GAJDA

Leadership comes in many forms — from being a president and CEO to being someone who excels in networking, fundraising or leads by example.

Whether it is in Tracy Hazel the job title or not, a true leader is someone others want to follow.

Our January/February issue of 517 Magazine focuses on women in leadership roles. We asked our readers if there was a local woman they viewed as a leadership icon.

Among the most recognized in our poll was Tracy Hazel, owner and CEO at Advanced Training and Consulting LCC. “Tracy has dedicated her entire career to teaching and training work safety to hundreds of Lansing and Michigan-based manufacturers and businesses,” one entry said. “She is a leader and expert that many rely on for help. She has a library

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of training modules and gets called upon by some of our finest businesses in the Lansing area and beyond to help train their staff. In addition, Tracy volunteers her time for many great causes that help families in need in our community.”

Hazel was referred to as passionate, humble and inspiring, and she typified those traits when 517 Magazine reached out to her.

“What an absolute honor and blessing to be even considered for a designation in leadership,” Hazel said. “So many wonderful women leaders have helped me throughout my career.”

Hazel has been involved in countless community efforts, including Stuff the Bus, an event that resulted in providing food/ personal items to over 100 families in need before Thanksgiving. Donations were given to the Salvation Army. She also sponsored the Waverly robotics team to offer training to high school students at no cost to them.

She is also heavily involved the Michigan Safety Conference as a volunteer speaker and coordinator of the event.

“My strong commitment to our community stems from people in need,” Hazel said. “Thirteen people die every day while on the job, according to OSHA. One in seven children are hungry in our community, according to Feeding America. I feel everyone has the right to work in an environment that is safe, inclusive to all and that each employee goes home safe at the end of the work day.

During times of disasters, look for the helpers.

That’s where my soul is the happiest, helping where I can, one life at a time.”

Nicole Noll-Williams, president and CEO of the Capital Region Airport Authority; Michelle Massey, vice president of community outreach and customer operations at TechSmith; and Cindy Kangas, executive director of the Capital Area Manufacturing Council; were also mentioned in our poll. You can read about them in our business feature on page 13.

Look for more polls on our Facebook account @517mag and on our website at 517mag.com/517-polls/.

FEATURE

In Service

of Others

FREEMAN FINDS ENLIGHTENMENT, EMPOWERMENT IN HELPING

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY | PHOTOS BY METRO MELIK

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“I am a servant of Christ who believes in spreading love , joy and peace . Contributing to the lives of others by providing assistance in any way , being a source of encouragement and a true and supporting friend is my purpose .”

That proclamation is how Renee Morgan Freeman closes every email, and it is a sentiment that the department coordinator for the city of Lansing’s Human Relations and Community Services lives and breathes each day.

“It is my belief that everyone has a responsibility to serve where they live, work and play,” Freeman said. “The wheel of democracy is depended on the people. If we are not involved, contributing our talents, sharing our voice or have a seat at the table, the community does not thrive, nor does it have the creative elements of diversity.”

Serving the Greater Lansing area is something Freeman has done both professionally and personally for the past two decades, first arriving in the area to work for then-state Rep. Virgil Bernero before transitioning to City Hall. Freeman worked as the mayor’s office manager for 12 years before shifting to the Office of Human Relations and Community Services in 2018.

As department coordinator Freeman performs oversight activity of agencies to substantiate funding and compliance with city of Lansing grant rules and regulations, coordinates and implements special projects and events, assists citizens with birth certificate acquisition and utility financial assistance, and more; however, her work outside of her job has an equally significant impact in lifting and revitalizing the region.

She is actively involved with the Old Newsboys Association of Greater Lansing, an organization established in 1924 to put shoes, boots and new socks on the feet of schoolchildren, but her current passion project is the Greater Lansing Area Club of the National Association of

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Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs Inc. Founded in 1935, the organization consists of women of color who are professionals and/or entrepreneurs. She was recently elected as president of the local club and serves as financial secretary at the district level.

“Our mission is to promote and protect the interests of African American business and professional women, to serve as a bridge for young people seeking to enter business and the professions, to improve the quality of life in the local and global communities, and to foster good fellowship,” Freeman said. “Our focus is on LETS — leadership, entrepreneurship, technology and service — which includes health, education and economic development. We take pride in Sojourner Truth being our national matriarch.”

She became aware or the organization while working in the Legislature.

“You know the Lord always put angels in your path. … The point of contact was Gloria Davis, who was president at the time,” Freeman said.

“We had an immediate spiritual connection, and she was instrumental in me becoming a member of GLAC in 2002.

“I am very passionate about my involvement with GLAC. It provides the fulfilment of being able to perform, coordinate and implement a multitude of community outreach services dedicated toward youth, families, women and men,” she continued. “It allows me to also fulfill my God-given gift, which is to serve. I love being able to serve others in every aspect of my life through GLAC — as a family member, as a friend, as a colleague and through Christian fellowship. … GLAC provides a sense of sisterhood and family. I have

FEATURE

“AN EMPOWERED WOMAN IS A PERSON WHO IS NOT SELFISH — AND WILLING TO HELP, LIFT OTHERS UP AND BE INVOLVED WITHIN HER COMMUNITY, A WOMAN WHO TAKES A STAND FOR WHAT IS RIGHT AND NOT FOLLOW THE STATUS QUO.”

grown and been empowered as a person in so many ways through the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs.”

She said that sense of empowerment is something that is led by the spirit of God — a humbleness that is complemented by confidence, boldness, resiliency and integrity.

“An empowered woman is a person who is not selfish — and willing to help, lift others up and be involved within her community,” Freeman said. “A woman who takes a stand for what is right and not follow the status quo. Some people don’t understand my assertive manner or take my willingness to help as being aggressive, which is only me trying to bring about a positive outcome, being proactive instead of reactive and trying to get things done, making an impact.”

That empowerment also means constantly seeking new challenges and ways to make a difference. One of Freeman’s visions is formulating a movement to restore the Lansing Association of Women’s Clubs clubhouse at 301 N. Butler Blvd. in Lansing.

“It is a historical site, and I believe the building’s structure is solid,” she said. “Many Greek and other organizations such as the Greater Lansing Area Club used to hold meetings at the clubhouse and it was being utilized for other community purposes. … I truly believe the clubhouse has potential, can be repurposed and its impact would be of benefit to the community. If restored and used in the right way, it could make a difference, especially since many places do not permit use of space for meetings after work hours and on the weekend or utilized as a place to congregate for a cause.

“Challenge motivates me,” Freeman added. “I wake up each day with a thankful heart and a positive mindset. I am always thinking of ways to be better or do something that makes a difference, whether it be in someone’s life or for a cause and even in my own life. I am not obsessed with being the face of anything that I am involved with or receiving public accolades. I enjoy working behind the scenes, which is where my best work is done.”

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MIND • BODY • SPIRIT BE YOURSELF “Learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all.”

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BE VOCAL “Women belong in all places that decisions are being made.” — Ruth Bader Ginsberg

BE OPEN TO CHANGE “To do life right, you have to feel like you’re growing up until the day you die.” — Jane Fonda

BE ORIGINAL “Write your own part. It’s the only way I’ve gotten anywhere. It is much harder work, but sometimes you have to take destiny into your own hands.” — Mindy Kaling

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OUR FUTURE “Women, in general, are not part of the corruption of the past, so they can give a new kind of leadership, a new image for mankind.”

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lifestyle / JACK DAVIS LEGACY NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

LEGACY OF LOVE

MARCY RZEPKA CREATED THE MARK FOUNDATION IN HONOR OF HER BROTHER, MARK ALAN WEAVER.

GIVING VOICE TO A MEDICAL NEED MARK FOUNDATION HELPS GUIDE THOSE ON THEIR HEALTH CARE JOURNEY

BY KYLE DOWLING

One man’s strength and struggles during his lifetime have given rise to a legacy that helps others facing similar battles.

The Mark Foundation is a new nonprofit advocating awareness regarding kidney disease and helping to guide people who feel lost in the health care system. The foundation’s name is both a remembrance of the CEO’s beloved brother and an acronym for Memories Are Respectfully Kept.

The Mark Foundation was created in memory of Mark Alan Weaver, who passed away in March 2015. Weaver had health problems all his life stemming from an autoimmune disease that made it difficult to even fight off the common cold. After needing to replace both hips due to degenerative arthritis, Weaver was prescribed pain medication, which led him down the dangerous road of addiction. The high doses of pain medication had also damaged Weaver’s kidneys and liver.

Through his battles with addiction and health issues, including three bouts of necrotizing fasciitis, Weaver fought on with hope, kindness and resilience. He was a hero to his sister, Marcy Rzepka, who created the foundation in his honor.

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“I wanted to do something good in my brother’s name to honor his vigilance and kindness to others,” Rzepka said. “Whereas I will never be my brother, nor can I change what happened to him, I can do good and help others maneuver through their health care issues and help them not only find but keep their voices.”

Before his death, Weaver was working toward a degree in psychology and teaching others about addiction. He had hoped to help people who were going through the same problems that he had worked so hard to overcome.

Throughout Weaver’s ordeals, he felt he was often not heard when it came to his health. The foundation hopes to fight for people to be recognized and understood when it comes to their health and needs.

“For those of you who met my brother, you will agree that this is exactly what Mark would have wanted me to do,” Rzepka said.

“For those of you that never got that opportunity, I hope you feel his strength in all I attempt to do for you in his name.”

For more information about The Mark Foundation, visit the foundation’s website at themarkfoundation.info.

lifestyle / PLAY

t ent a cont more G.COM A 517M

Take Wing to Fun at the Sparrow Gala SPARROW GALA Feb. 26 Come join the Sparrow Foundation for the 2022 Sparrow Gala, an annual night of good times and entertainment. The evening benefits the area of greatest need at Sparrow Health System, helping to make the health system’s exceptional and essential care possible when the community needs it most. Past events have provided funding for the cancer center and emergency department.

Check online as more details on the event become available. For more information, visit secure.qgiv. com/event/spagal/.

THIS MONTH’S EVENTS Editor’s note: Please call event venues directly to make sure times and dates haven’t changed due to cancellations and postponements related to COVID-19.

Robert Burns Birthday Celebration Jan. 22 Find your love of Celtic music, bagpipes and Scottish Highland dancing at the Glen Erin Pipe Band’s 50th Robert Burns Birthday Celebration. The celebration takes place at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center on the campus of Michigan State University in East Lansing. Dinner is included and there will be a cash bar. Visit glenerinpipeband. com/burnsnight.html for more details.

Amaru’s Funny is Funny Comedy Club Presents: Roz McCoy Jan. 26-30 Get ready for a laugh with retired Navy veteran Roz McCoy. Funny is Funny Comedy Club, 921 Mall Drive W. in Lansing, brings a fresh national touring stand-up comedian to the Lansing area every Wednesday through Sunday. Visit funnyisfunnycomedyclub. com for more details.

“Disney’s Frozen” Jan. 26-Feb. 6 Don’t say, “Let it go.” Just say, “Let’s go!” The touring show based off the awardwinning film is coming to the Wharton Center for Performing Arts in East Lansing. With fantastic special-effects sets and costumes, it will be a show you won’t want to miss.

Visit the Wharton Center’s website for tickets: whartoncenter.com.

Follow our friends at 517living.com for other upcoming events in the region.

Mid-Michigan Women’s Expo Feb. 11-13 Explore a variety of exhibits, seminars, shopping and fun that aim to provide a weekend of entertainment, education and enjoyment tailored to women and their families.

The expo takes place at the Lansing Center, 333 E. Michigan Ave. in Lansing. Visit kohlerexpo.com for more details.

1/2.22 | 517

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PENINSULA PIONEERS Michigan women who made a difference BY KYLE DOWLING

March may be Women’s History Month, but there’s no reason not to celebrate the notable accomplishments of women all year long, especially here in our women in leadership issue! In Michigan, there is no shortage of women who have stood up, stepped out and made a difference by planting their own flags in history.

HARRIET QUIMBY Harriet Quimby was born in Arcadia in Manistee County on the shores of Lake Michigan. She was the first woman in the United States to gain a pilot’s license, earning the distinction from the Aero Club of America in 1911. The following year, Quimby flew into history as the first woman to fly across the English Channel; however, her feat was overshadowed by news of the sinking of the RMS Titanic.

CORA REYNOLDS ANDERSON Born in the northwest Upper Peninsula community of L’Anse, Cora Reynolds Anderson was the first woman and Native American to be elected to the Michigan House of Representatives. She was sworn into office in 1924, only four years after women gained the right to vote in the United States. She was passionate about fighting for health care in the state, especially against tuberculosis.

SERENA WILLIAMS Born in Saginaw, Serena Williams is considered one of the greatest female tennis players of all time. The Women’s Tennis Association ranked her the singles world No. 1 player on eight separate occasions between 2002 and 2017, including one stretch that lasted for 186 weeks. She’s also worked to help build schools in Africa and fund college scholarships for underprivileged students.

MERZE TATE Merze Tate was born in 1905 outside of Mount Pleasant and went on to become a leading professor, expert and scholar of U.S. diplomacy. She was the first African American to graduate from Western Michigan Teachers College, now Western Michigan University; the first Black women to attend Oxford University in England; and the first to earn a Ph.D. in government from Harvard University.

ANDRA RUSH Started in 1984 with three trucks and $15,000, Andra Rush built Rush Trucking into the largest female- and Native American-owned freight transportation company in North America. Headquartered in Wayne, Rush created over 1,000 Michigan jobs and has served on the U.S. Manufacturing Council advisory committee to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce.

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