ABOUT US
OUR MISSION
Leadership Macomb seeks to produce a network of informed community leaders who understand the roles and relationships of people and systems that support and sustain our community, enable graduates and others to engage in civic leadership, and strengthen organizational and community relationships.
oUR Diversity Statement
We strive to model and promote diversity and inclusion as a means to strengthen leadership. We do this by respecting and encouraging all perspectives, as well as by engaging diverse populations in all activities.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Leadership Macomb is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, all of whom have graduated from the program. They represent all of the major sectors in Macomb County and offer their time, talent and treasure to ensure the success of the Leadership Macomb program.
President
Jim Marchand
Jim Marchand is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XV. Jim recently retired from the Marchand Advisory Group with Raymond James in Macomb, Michigan. Jim has had over 25 years of experience in investment and retirement planning and 10 years in corporate finance. He graduated from Walsh College with a BBA and MBA. Jim is the Board President of Leadership Macomb.
Treasurer
David W. Herrington
David W. Herrington, CPA is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class II. David is the Office Managing Partner of the Macomb County office of Plante Moran. He has 34 years of experience in serving clients in the hospitality, professional service and government industries. He works closely with owners, officers and board members on audit engagements, consulting projects, human resource matters and a wide variety of other strategic matters. A University of Michigan graduate, David is a member with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants, and the Macomb County Treasurer’s Association. He is the Treasurer at Heritage Church of Macomb, volunteers for Lifebuilders of Detroit and is Treasurer on the Leadership Macomb Board.
Stacy Bahri
Stacy Bahri is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XXV. She works as the Strategic Initiatives Manager at the Chaldean Community Foundation. During the start of her career at the Chaldean Community Foundation, Stacy worked as a Case Worker, advocating for her clients, and assisting them with acculturating into American society. Today, Stacy leads a team that represents the Community Outreach and Marketing team for the Chaldean Community Foundation. The Community Outreach and Marketing team is tasked with forming strategic partnerships with the greater community to gain appreciation for the Chaldean Community Foundation & its services.
Stacy is involved in several committees that promote various initiatives, including diversity & inclusion, such as Macomb County’s Annual Breakfast of Nations, Macomb County Student Diversity Summit, Sterling Heights Editorial Advisory Board, Chaldean News Editorial Advisory Board, Macomb Community College Cultural Advisory Committee, and McLaren Macomb Diversity & Inclusion Council. Additionally, Stacy was appointed to the Sterling Heights Community Alliance Commission in February of 2021 and currently serves as the Chair.
Stacy has also led initiatives to register new voters and developed a plan on how the 2020 Census can reach hard-to-count communities. Stacy has provided cultural awareness training to more than 1,050 individuals, including community, health, and government organizations on and about the Chaldean community. Stacy is a graduate of New Detroit’s Multicultural Leadership Series which she completed in April of 2018 and graduated from the International Academy of Design & Technology with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts in 2007. In 2021, Stacy was a recipient of the Sterling Heights Diversity Distinction Award in recognition of practices that promote, recognize and reward diversity in the City of Sterling Heights.
Greg Bischer
Greg Bischer is the proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XXIII. Greg is the founder and CEO of GRIT Technologies. He has been in the Information Technology (IT) field since 1991, where his first job was to replace typewriters with personal computers. From basic PC installations in the early 90’s, to designing and building today’s state-of-the-art, corporate networks, Greg has been part of the revolutionary developments in the IT industry from the beginning. His passion is to help small-to-medium sized businesses utilize technology as a differentiator, not an inhibitor. Greg is married to Ilene who is a graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XX and proud father of four children. Greg also sits on the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity Macomb.
Dr. Alesia Flye
Dr. Alesia Flye is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XI. Dr. Flye currently serves as the Assistant Superintendent for Instruction/Chief Academic Officer at the Macomb Intermediate School District (MISD), which serves 21 public school districts, charter schools and private/parochial schools in Macomb County. The MISD supports 130,000 students including 19,000 who need special education services. The MISD is the largest ISD in Michigan that provides direct services to students.
Dr. Flye has served as an executive leader in local school districts in Michigan, Ohio, and Minnesota, including experience with diverse, high needs learning communities. In Michigan, Alesia has established and maintained curricular and co-curricular programs in Ann Arbor Public Schools, Rochester Community Schools, West Bloomfield School District and Utica Community Schools.
Dr. Flye has vast knowledge in the educational arena, as she has successfully served in leadership roles including Deputy Superintendent, Human Resources Director, Elementary Principal, Middle School Principal, and Classroom Teacher.
A native of New Orleans, Alesia earned a Doctor of Education Degree from Seton Hall University, a Master of Education Degree from Wright State University; and a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Dr. Flye is a lifelong learner, who enjoys supporting and learning alongside students and educators.
Terry Gibb
Terry Gibb is a proud honorary graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XVII. Terry joined MSU Extension (MSUE) as a Natural Resources/ Public Policy Educator in 1990. She has developed educational materials, programs and webinars on topics ranging from state ballot issues to septic system education. She worked on the development of a fiscal sustainability curriculum for communities and has team taught sessions on fiscal management in communities throughout the state. She co-facilitates the statewide advisory committee of the Michigan Water School as well as presenting at training around the state for local and state officials.
Ms. Gibb has a teaching certificate in secondary and vocational education and is a certified Housing counselor. She has a Bachelors degree in Consumer Economics and Master’s degree in Teaching/Education both from Wayne State University. She has received three MSUE John Hannah Awards for programming excellence and the Distinguished Academic Staff Award. Ms. Gibb is now retired and working on call as a Government & Community Vitality and Natural Resources Senior Educator.
Brian Grant
Brian Grant is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XXI. Brian is a shareholder and member of the Board of Directors at O’Reilly Rancilio. He focuses his practice primarily on probate litigation and administration, commercial litigation and disputes, municipal law, as well as estate planning and transactional law.
Brian earned his undergraduate degree from Michigan State University in 2004 and Juris Doctorate from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 2007. He practices in all courts in Michigan, including the United States District Court for the Eastern and Western District of Michigan. In his free time, Brian enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters and cheering on Michigan State University and Detroit teams.
Steve Krajnik
Steve Krajnik, Colonel, USAF (Ret) is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class IV. For the past two years, Steve has been serving Anderson, Eckstein, & Westrick, Inc (Civil Engineers-Surveyors-Architects) as a Senior Project Manager and has performed construction services and project management roles at diverse locations such as the UAW Solidarity House, Huntington Place Convention Center, and Macomb County Sheriff’s Office Boathouse, among others. Prior to AEW, Steve worked 11 years as a USAF Civilian Chief of Engineering for Selfridge ANG Base after 30 years Military Service in the US Air Force, retiring in 2010 from the 110th Fighter Wing as Vice-Wing Commander. Throughout his military career, he held a variety of leadership positions including Mission Support Group (MSG) Commander of the largest MSG in the US Air National Guard inventory. While serving in Base Civil Engineering, Steve had a key impact on programming, design, and construction programs at multiple bases including Selfridge, Lincoln ANG Base in Nebraska, and the District of Columbia ANG located on Andrews AFB, Maryland.
Steve received a Master of Architecture and Bachelors of Science in Architectural Studies from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln.
Steve’s community involvement includes serving on the Board of Directors for Leadership Macomb, STARBASE, Inc, and the Michigan Air Guard Historic Association, and is involved with the Selfridge Base Community Council and the Air & Space Force Association as well as being a parishioner at St. George Chaldean Catholic Church. He was appointed to the Macomb County Ethics Board in October of 2023.
Amy Maloney
Amy C. Maloney is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XIX. Amy is a goal-driven, compassionate, and accountable professional with over 19 years of related, hands-on experience in a fast-paced hospital setting. She has worked in many sectors of the medical field including as an administrative clinical nurse manager, facilitator of clinical educational services, director of medicine and heart services, and executive administrator of clinical operations. She serves as Vice President of Clinical Operations at Corewell Health in Troy, overseeing various areas including heart and vascular, radiology, pharmacy, laboratory, family medicine and more. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing, Leadership and Management from Western Governors University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing also from Western Governors University.
Michael Markel, Jr
Michael Markel, Jr. is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XX.
Michael is the Vice President of Operations and Chief Nursing Officer at Henry Ford Macomb Hospitals. Michael provides strategic leadership and oversees day-to-day operations management. He leads and is accountable for all inpatient and outpatient nursing operations. Additional responsibilities include Safety and Security and Inpatient and Outpatient Rehabilitation.
Michael started at Henry Ford Macomb Hospitals in 2013. Before that, he worked at Trinity Health for 30 years serving as Executive Director for Emergency Services, Chief Nursing Officer and Regional Executive for Hospital and Ambulatory Operations for the North Region of St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor.
Michael received his Bachelor of Science in nursing from Mercy College of Detroit and a Master of Science in nursing and Master of Science in business administration from Madonna University.
Markel serves as the executive sponsor for the Employee Resource Group (ERG) ABLE that promotes awareness and inclusion for disabled team members within Henry Ford Health System.
He also serves as chair for “One Voice for Michigan Nursing,” where he leads some of Michigan’s most influential nursing leaders to create a Center for Nursing Advocacy.
His current board appointments include Macomb County Medical Control Authority, Coalition for Michigan Organizations of Nursing (COMON) and Midwest Chapter of the American College of Health Care Executives (MCACHE). He has held several positions with the Michigan Organization of Nurse Leaders.
He has more than 30 years of experience with pre-hospital emergency care and fire service operations and formerly served as a volunteer lieutenant with the Waterford Regional Fire Department.
Amy Persyn
Amy Persyn is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XVI. Amy is a life-long Macomb County Resident currently residing in Harrison Township with her husband, David, and two boys, Henry and Elliott. Educationally, she is a proud alumni of L’Anse Creuse Public Schools, Macomb Community College, The Disney College Program, and Wayne State University. Amy has enjoyed a fifteen-year career as a Marketing Professional in the Non-Profit and Financial Services industries and currently serves as First Vice President-Marketing Director for Macomb County’s only locally owned and operated Community Bank, First State Bank.
Amy has a particular interest in advancing Financial Literacy, Community Partnerships and Servant Leadership. She is also a contributor covering local banking advice for MACOMB NOW magazine. Amy has had the pleasure of serving on the Board of the Macomb Homeless Coalition, several years as a Mentor for Winning Futures, volunteering for Presbyterian Villages of Michigan Foundation initiatives, Blessings in a Backpack, and various community partnership projects. She currently serves on the Connect Macomb Board of Directors. As a 2012 Graduate of Leadership Macomb, Amy is honored to contribute, as a Board Member, ideas and support for future experiences that Leadership Macomb’s immersive program continues to offer.
Shaun Quinn
Shaun Quinn is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XIX. He is the Principal and Vice President of Claims and Business Development for Zolman Restoration, which has two offices in Southeast Michigan – Sterling Heights and Walled Lake. With over 25 years of industry expertise, Shaun is dedicated to mentoring his team members and helping commercial and residential clients restore their properties to pre-loss condition after devastating disasters.
He takes pride in providing exceptional communication and support to clients during difficult times. Shaun is a certified insurance restoration expert with multiple IICRC certifications in areas including Journeyman Fire & Smoker Restorer, Water Damage Technician, Odor Control Technician, and Upholstery & Fabric Restoration Technician. Additionally, he is proficient in the insurance industry’s Xactimate estimating software.
Prior to joining Zolman Restoration in 2014, Shaun served in a variety of roles within construction-related organizations over a period of 27 years, from Director of Construction to National Accounts Manager and Sales Associate. With a wealth of past experiences to draw from, Shaun is well-versed in all aspects of exceptional customer service, disaster recovery, large loss coordination, and project management.
Shaun has previously served on DDA for the City of New Baltimore and currently serves on the Contractor Advisory Board for CoreLogic.
Shaun is a native of Mt. Clemens and currently resides with his wife and two children in New Baltimore, Michigan. Outside of work, he enjoys camping, hunting, and spending valuable time with family and friends.
Vicky Rowinski
Vicky Rowinski, CEcD is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XVIII. Vicky is the Director of the Department of Planning and Economic Development for Macomb County. Prior to joining the county in 2013, Vicky worked at the Detroit Regional Chamber and was responsible for the program management of Connection Point. She also worked at the Macomb Regional Procurement Technical Assistance Center.
Vicky has a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems from Baker College, a Master of Science in administration with a concentration in leadership from Central Michigan University and a master’s certificate in government contracting administration from George Washington University.
Besides sitting on the board for Leadership Macomb, Vicky also sits on several other boards including the Greater Detroit Foreign Trade Zone, MichAuto, the Macomb County Robotics Collaboration and Innovation Center, the Michigan Chapter of Women in Defense, and the Michigan Automotive and Defense Cyber Awareness Team (MADCAT). She is also on the membership committee for Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDA). Vicky currently teaches at Oakland University and is a licensed real estate agent and member of the Greater Metropolitan Association of REALTORS® (GMAR).
Dr. James O. Sawyer IV
Dr. James O. Sawyer IV is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class VII. Dr. Sawyer is the current President of Macomb Community College. During his tenure at Macomb, he has also served as Provost and Senior Vice President for the Learning Unit, the Dean of Engineering and Advanced Technology and Vice Provost for Career Programs. Dr. Sawyer has been the principle investigator on two successful National Science Foundation grants and has led a cultural transformation from a focus on student access to student success. Prior to joining Macomb Community College, Dr. Sawyer held leadership positions in engineering, quality, and operations at companies such as Chrysler, Dana, Ancor, and a New Haven Foundry. Dr. Sawyer is an American Society of Quality Certified Quality Engineer and his education background includes a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Lawrence Technological University, Master of Science in Administration, and Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Central Michigan University. He currently serves on the Boards for Leadership Macomb, Detroit Zoological Society, Advancing Macomb, and Ascension Southeast Michigan Hospitals.
Colonel Leah Voelker
Colonel Leah Voelker is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XVIII. Please check back soon to see Leah’s full biography.
LeaDERSHIP MACOMB STAFF
Executive Director
Karen Smith
Karen Smith (LM X) has been the Executive Director for Leadership Macomb, Inc., since 2007. She is responsible for all aspects of running the organization including recruitment, fundraising, curriculum development, operations and marketing. During her tenure the program has experienced substantial growth and has added an additional program for high school students.
Prior to joining Leadership Macomb, Inc., Mrs. Smith worked for the Henry Ford Health System for twelve years, most recently as the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Henry Ford Macomb Hospital – Warren Campus. While there, she successfully spearheaded a nationally recognized re-branding campaign and name change which resulted in increased volume and heightened brand awareness.
She has a Bachelor’s Degree in marketing from Oakland University and a Master of Science in Management degree from Walsh College. She has served as a mentor for teens through the Winning Futures Program, and served on the Board for All the World’s a Stage, a theater group for youth. She was an Athena Award nominee in 2005 and 2010. She is involved with the Sister City program through Clinton Township as a host family for Japanese visitors. She was appointed by County Executive Hackel for a three-year term on the Macomb County Ethics Board in 2011.
Leadership Macomb Staff
Program Manager
Julie Petkoff
Julie Petkoff is the Program Manager at Leadership Macomb. She received a Bachelor’s in Social Work from Calvin College. Julie’s previous experience includes being a mentor, fundraising and recruiting volunteers. In Julie’s free time she enjoys reading, bike riding and spending time at the beach with her family. She currently resides in Sterling Heights with her husband Dan and their two children.
PROGRAM COUNCIL
The Leadership Macomb Program Council is responsible for establishing the curriculum for the program. The group is composed of subject experts, all graduates of the Leadership Macomb Program. The team meets regularly to plan the monthly session agendas encompassing the most relevant topics, speakers, and unique tours.
Program Chair
Karen Smith
Karen Smith (LM X) has been the Executive Director for Leadership Macomb, Inc., since 2007. She is responsible for all aspects of running the organization including recruitment, fundraising, curriculum development, operations and marketing. During her tenure the program has experienced substantial growth and has added an additional program for high school students.
Prior to joining Leadership Macomb, Inc., Mrs. Smith worked for the Henry Ford Health System for twelve years, most recently as the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Henry Ford Macomb Hospital – Warren Campus. While there, she successfully spearheaded a nationally recognized re-branding campaign and name change which resulted in increased volume and heightened brand awareness.
She has a Bachelor’s Degree in marketing from Oakland University and a Master of Science in Management degree from Walsh College. She has served as a mentor for teens through the Winning Futures Program, and served on the Board for All the World’s a Stage, a theater group for youth. She was an Athena Award nominee in 2005 and 2010. She is involved with the Sister City program through Clinton Township as a host family for Japanese visitors. She was appointed by County Executive Hackel for a three-year term on the Macomb County Ethics Board in 2011.
Steve Ball
Steve Ball is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XVIII. Please check back soon to see Steve’s full biography.
Michael Benoit
Michael R. Benoit is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XVII. He is also a member of the Leadership Macomb Program Council and has hosted the Program’s Health and Human Services Day for the last several years. Mike is the Director of Salesforce CRM and Integration Services for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM). He has been at Blue Cross since 1999 while holding several technical leadership roles. Prior to that, he worked at both Ford Credit and the Internal Revenue Service. Mike earned an MBA from the University of Michigan – Dearborn and a BSEE (Electrical Engineering) from Wayne State University. He is married and has two daughters. He and his family reside in Chesterfield Township. He is an avid outdoorsman and serves on the Board of Directors of Huron Pointe Sportsmen’s Association.
Valerie Corbett
Valerie Corbett has been a proud member of the Leadership Macomb Program Council since 2022. Valerie possesses masterful synchronization skills and decades of event production experience. She has hosted statewide conferences, K-12 outreach events, and is the Committee Chair for LM’s Education & Workforce Development Day.
Over 20 years of dedicated work with Macomb Community College, whether it’s Project Management, Business Development, or new programs to be launched, Valerie continues to grow opportunities with industry and student success in mind, growing the workforce of the future.
She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration and Community Development from Central Michigan University and soon completing her Master’s in Education, with focus in Training and Development.
More than 12 years’ experience with the Michigan Association of Continuing Education and Training (MACET) as President, Vice President, Treasurer, Membership Liaison, and other roles, showcases her connectivity and relationship building skills with community colleges throughout the state.
As a member of the Michigan Boating Industry Association (MBIA) marine consortium and education advisory board, the Board of Directors for the Michigan Boating Industries Association voted unanimously to honor Valerie Corbett with one of MBIA’s most prestigious awards – The MBIA Lighthouse Award for 2020. In recognition for hard work and dedication to grow the workforce and a talent pipeline for Michigan’s marine businesses.
Terry Gibb
Terry Gibb is a proud honorary graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XVII. Terry joined MSU Extension (MSUE) as a Natural Resources/ Public Policy Educator in 1990. She has developed educational materials, programs and webinars on topics ranging from state ballot issues to septic system education. She worked on the development of a fiscal sustainability curriculum for communities and has team taught sessions on fiscal management in communities throughout the state. She co-facilitates the statewide advisory committee of the Michigan Water School as well as presenting at training around the state for local and state officials.
Ms. Gibb has a teaching certificate in secondary and vocational education and is a certified Housing counselor. She has a Bachelors degree in Consumer Economics and Master’s degree in Teaching/Education both from Wayne State University. She has received three MSUE John Hannah Awards for programming excellence and the Distinguished Academic Staff Award. Ms. Gibb is now retired and working on call as a Government & Community Vitality and Natural Resources Senior Educator.
Phil Gilchrist
Phil Gilchrist is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XX. He began working with the Anton Art Center as Grant Coordinator in 2009 and assumed his current role as Executive Director in October 2015.
Phil studied photography and ceramics, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Northern Michigan University in 2005, and a Master of Public Administration from Wayne State University in 2013. Phil has served in leadership roles in the Mount Clemens Art Association and Mount Clemens Kiwanis Club and serves on the Marketing and Programs Committee of the Macomb County Chamber of Commerce and Program Councils for Leadership Macomb and Junior Leadership Macomb programs. Phil also serves on the Macomb Art Institute Authority as its Board Chair, the Mount Clemens Downtown Development Authority as its Chair, the board of Macomb County Pride as its President, and on the board of the regional arts organization Culturesource.
As a nearly life-long resident of Mount Clemens, Phil is passionate about making a difference in his community through the arts and focuses on creating opportunities for people throughout Macomb County to experience creativity firsthand. He takes interest in how the arts support education, health, community and economic development, and the role that arts play in different cultures and communities.
Chris Marchand
Chris Marchand is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb XXI. He is an Associate Vice President, Investments of the Marchand/Melia Advisory Group of Raymond James in Macomb, MI. Chris is an experienced financial professional that is committed to collaborating with clients and their families to meet their needs. He is passionate about investor education as a means to empower successful individual, families and organizations to attain optimal outcomes. Chris prioritizes understanding all the details that make each of his clients’ situations unique and taking tailoring a strategy to accomplish their financial goals. Chris is also an alumnus of Western Michigan University, earned his MBA from Walsh College, holds Series 7 and 66 securities licenses, and is a licensed life and health insurance agent. He is a Certified Investment Management Analyst® consultant.
Carrie Mead
Carrie Mead is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XXII. With more than 20 years of experience serving at military installations around the globe, Carrie currently serves as the Garrison Manager at the Detroit Arsenal. The arsenal encompasses 181 acres, with 74 buildings creating more than 2.6M square feet of building space where she is responsible for all installation management services and base operations. There are approximately 7,500 civilian/contract workers and 250 military on the arsenal, which is the only Active-Duty Military Installation in Michigan.
Carrie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Michigan, and a Master of Nonprofit Management from Regis University in Denver. Carrie is a graduate of the Department of Defense Executive Leader Development Program and an alum of the IMCOM City Manager Senior Fellowship Program.
A strong supporter of volunteerism, Carrie serves as a Past President of Women in Defense – Michigan Chapter, an advisor to the local National Defense Industrial Association board, and as a board member for Fisher House of Michigan.
She is married to Special Agent James Mead and mother to Grady James.
Dr. Patrick Rouse
Dr. Patrick Rouse is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XXV. Dr. Rouse is director of Workforce & Continuing Education for the Engineering and Advanced Technology department at Macomb Community College. His area is focused on helping individuals train, re-train or upskill to connect with jobs that are in demand, and in positioning local employers with the right talent to sustain and grow their businesses. Annually, this translates into working with more than 400 businesses and 3,200 students.
He has more than 20 years of operations leadership experience that includes international experience and spans industry sectors, including higher education, manufacturing, media, and business solutions.
Dr. Rouse holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration – international business with a minor in international relations, a Master of Education in higher education leadership degree, and a Doctor of Education – higher education leadership degree from Liberty University.
Dr. Rouse serves on a number of committees focused on economic development including being Macomb’s representative to the Cornerstone (OTA), a Department of Defense initiative to re-shore the supply-chain, serving on the Macomb County Aerospace & Defense Committee, the National Defense Industry Association STEM Committee, the Leadership Macomb Education Committee, and the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments’ (SEMCOG) Economic Development Strategy Task Force that published their “Increasing shared prosperity for a resilient economy” strategy in 2020 (link).
Chelsea Schneider
Chelsea Schneider is a proud member of Leadership Macomb Class XXIIV. Chelsea is the Communication Services Manager in Community Relations for the Charter Township of Shelby. Prior to accepting this position in 2017, Chelsea worked as Digital Media Associate and Project Manager for Park West Gallery, the world’s largest art dealer, in Southfield. Chelsea has vast experience in event management, marketing and social media, and helped to create, establish and enhance social media presences for the Charter Township of Shelby and Park West Gallery, as well as managing social media promotions for the inaugural Faster Horses music festival.
Chelsea has a bachelor’s degree in Communication, Journalism and Public Relations from Oakland University. She has recently been appointed to the Advisory Council for The Digital Marketing Certificate Program at The George Washington University, School of Business. Chelsea also serves on the Shelby Township Veterans Advisory Board and volunteers with the Shelby Township Downtown Development Authority.
Ryan Zemke
Ryan is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XX. He has been a member of program council for JLM and LM since 2018.
Ryan currently serves as the Magistrate and Deputy Court Administrator at the 41B District Court. He was previously a criminal defense attorney at Zemke Law PLLC where he served as co-defense counsel for the 41B District Court Drug & Sobriety Court Program, the 41B District Court Veteran’s Treatment Court, and the 40th District Court Drug Court. Ryan is also a former president of Helping Ensure Addicts Live (HEAL), a non-profit designed to help those suffering from addiction restore hope, gain courage, and achieve recovery by providing services designed to foster healthy life changes. He has attended training conferences through the both the Michigan Association of Treatment Court Professionals (MATCP) and the National Associations of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP). Ryan was appointed to the Macomb County Substance Use Disorder Oversight Policy Board by the Macomb County Board of Commissioners in 2015 and currently serves as their Treasurer.
Ryan is a past chair of the State Bar of Michigan (SBM) Young Lawyers Section and SBM Criminal Law Section. He is the President-Elect for the Macomb County Bar Association and is a past Chair of the Macomb County Bar Association Young Lawyer’s Section. Ryan has served on the SBM Board of Commissioners and was previously a member of the SBM Representative Assembly. Ryan is also a member of Selfridge Base Community Council and serves on the Board of Directors for MyCare Health Center and Families Against Narcotics (FAN) where he previously served as President of the Board of Directors.
Ryan graduated from Michigan State University in 2009 with a degree in Political Theory & Constitutional Democracy though James Madison College and went on to graduate with a law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 2008. He resides in Clinton Township with his wife, Sarah, and two children, Zach and Emma.
EXECUTIVE ADVISORY COUNCIL
The purpose of the Executive Advisory Council is to retain the wisdom of senior leadership throughout Macomb County to ensure our organization continues to offer the most unique and relevant programming in our community.
Macomb County Executive
Mark Hackel
Mark A. Hackel is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class II. Born and raised in Macomb County, Mark is a graduate of Warren Consolidated Schools, where he never missed a day of classes. He literally worked his way through college, earning an associate’s degree from Macomb Community College, a bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University and a master’s in public administration from Central Michigan University.
His career in law enforcement began in 1981 as a dispatcher with the Macomb County Sheriff’s Department. Over the next 20 years he worked his way through every rank and was ultimately elected sheriff in 2000. As sheriff, he was recognized for his innovative law enforcement practices and his fiscal discipline. Mr. Hackel was elected to serve as Macomb’s first-ever county executive in November 2010, finishing first in every voting precinct in the county. He ran on a platform of making County government more efficient and effective, and promised to be accountable, accessible, and a passionate advocate for Macomb.
President Emeritus, Macomb Community College
James Jacobs, Ph.D.
Dr. James Jacobs is the President Emeritus of Macomb Community College. Prior to becoming the president of Macomb Community College, he served as director for the Center for Workforce Development and Policy at the college, and as associate director, Community College Research Center (CCRC), Teachers College, Columbia University, where he served as a member of its board of directors.
Dr. Jacobs earned his Ph.D. from Princeton University and had more than 40 years of experience at Macomb Community College. He has taught social science, political science and economics. He specialized in the areas of workforce skills and technology, economic development, worker retraining and community college workforce development, and is widely published in these areas of expertise. In addition, Dr. Jacobs has conducted research, developed programs and consulted on workforce development and community college issues at the national, state and local levels.
He is a past president of the National Council for Workforce Education, a national post-secondary organization of occupational education and workforce development specialists, and a member of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Advisory Board of the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the National Assessment of Career and Technical Education. Dr. Jacobs is also a member of the Community College Advisory Panel to the Educational Testing Service in Princeton, New Jersey.
Currently, Dr. Jacobs is an advisor to the Wilson Foundation, which promotes development in the Detroit and Buffalo regions, and serves on the boards of the Center for Automotive Research, the Detroit Institute of Arts, and the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Assistant County Executive
Albert Lorenzo
Dr. Albert Lorenzo was instrumental in the founding of Leadership Macomb. He is a proud member of Leadership Macomb Class 0! Dr. Lorenzo began his career in public accounting and then joined the Macomb College staff as an Assistant Professor. He later served as the college’s Business Manager, Controller and Vice President for Business. He became President in 1979 and served in that position for 29 years. Under his leadership Macomb evolved into one of the nation’s largest two-year colleges and the leading grantor of Associate Degrees in Michigan. Following his retirement from Macomb, he served for six years as an Executive in Residence at Oakland University. Dr. Lorenzo has served as Deputy County Executive since 2011, and was appointed Chief Policy Advisor in 2019.
Dr. Lorenzo is a highly respected civic leader and has shaped educational, workforce, and economic development policies on the local, state and national level. He has extensive experience in organizational policy and governance and has served on numerous professional, civic and corporate brands. Al grew up in Detroit and studied finance and management while in college, earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting, a master’s in business administration, and a doctorate in administration. He has taught in the fields of accounting and management and has lectured at more than a dozen universities around the country. His many civic and professional contributions have brought him national recognition, including fourteen major leadership awards and two honorary doctoral degrees.
Al and his wife Katherine live in Clinton Township and both are actively involved in civic and volunteer programs. They have four children and eight grandchildren.
LM I
Diana Rascano
Diana Rascano is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class I. Diana is a Walsh College graduate who retired as Director of Customer Credit Service from DTE Energy after 32 years of service. Diana co-founded a 501c3 organization, 4 Paws 1 Heart, which funds medical treatment for abandoned, stray, and abused animals. Diane served on the Leadership Macomb Board of Directors and was the chairperson of its Program Council for over 20 years. She currently serves on Leadership Macomb’s Executive Advisory Council. She also serves on the St. Clair Shores Communications Commission. Diana states: “Leadership can’t be taught. You can only set the groundwork by providing knowledge and opportunity and then lead by example. A desire to make a difference is what drives a true leader.”
Retired CEO, Anderson, Eckstein & Westrick
Roy Rose
Roy Rose retired from Anderson, Eckstein and Westrick after 35 years of service with the Shelby Township firm in May of 2020. Roy has more than forty years of civil engineering experience. He started at Anderson, Eckstein & Westrick, Inc. as a Project Manager in 1985 then was promoted to Vice President in 1994. Roy received his BSCE in Structural and Construction Engineering from Michigan Technological University. Roy served as Leadership Macomb’s Board President from 2011-2013. He played an integral part in growing the Core Program.
Retired Brigadier General
Doug “Odie” Slocum
Retired Brigadier General Doug “Odie” Slocum is a proud graduate of Leadership Macomb Class XIX. Retiring as a Brigadier General in 2019, Doug “Odie” Slocum has 35 years’ experience with the Air Force and the Air National Guard. His last assignment was as the Commanding General of the 127th Wing and Selfridge Air National Guard Base. Under his leadership, the men and women of the base earned numerous accolades including awards for being the top Air National Guard Wing in the country, the top fighter aircraft organization, the most efficient aerial tanker Wing in the Air Force, and only the third Air National Guard Wing in history to receive the Meritorious Unit Award for “outstanding devotion and exceptional performance.” He is well known for his leadership style which has been branded as “violent positivity”. Prior to coming to Michigan in 2014, he was the Air National Guard Inspector General in Washington DC.
Personally, he is well known in Southeast Michigan for expanding partnerships to new levels and initiating several pioneering projects bringing together coalitions from across the community, state, and nation. He is the recipient of DTE’s 2019 Environmental Steward of the Year Award, Macomb County’s 2018 Economic
Partner of the Year, and was inducted into the Macomb County Hall of Fame in 2017. Odie is a world-renowned educator and acclaimed motivational speaker having delivered more than 750 presentations or keynote addresses to over 150,000 attendees.
Odie is a career fighter pilot with more than 4,100 hours flying F-4, F-16, and A-10 aircraft – the top 1% of experienced fighter pilots in the Air Force. As an instructor pilot, he has personally authored more than 250 lessons, textbooks, and professional publications. He also served as the Air National Guard Director of Safety, where he is credited with leading the four safest years in the organization’s history. He personally created and championed several proposals including an innovative program that addressed human error in aircraft maintenance. Through this initiative the U.S. Air Force realized a 76 percent decrease in preventable mishaps, saving lives as well as more than $78 million. He also championed nation-wide programs for suicide prevention, fatigue management, driving safety, midair collision avoidance, and flight safety. He is also a trained and experienced aircraft mishap investigator. As a result of his safety innovations and results, Odie was inducted into the Air Force Safety Hall of Fame in 2013.
Odie is active in the community and as a veteran advocate, serves on the board of the Fisher House of Michigan and Air and Space Forces Association- Selfridge Chapter. He is also a member of Women in Defense (WID) and Selfridge Base Community Council. He lives in Macomb Township with his wife and daughter.
Michigan Supreme Court
Justice David Viviano
David F. Viviano is the 109th Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court. He was appointed by Governor Rick Snyder in 2013 and elected to complete the remainder of his term in 2014. He is the Supreme Court’s point-person for judicial training and statewide e-filing. Justice Viviano previously served as Chief Judge of the Macomb County Circuit and Probate Courts. He was elected to the Circuit Court in 2006 and again in 2012, and during that time presided over both civil and criminal cases. As chief judge, he was responsible for the administration of one of the largest trial courts in Michigan.
Justice Viviano has participated in a number of initiatives to improve the administration of justice. In 2008, then-Judge Viviano worked with a small group of judges to test reforms to Michigan’s jury system. A number of these reforms were adopted and are now being used throughout Michigan. Because of their efforts, Justice Viviano and his colleagues received a national award for jury innovation.
Justice Viviano is a strong advocate for technological innovation in the court system. He led the Macomb Circuit Court’s e-filing pilot project and has worked to improve how the court manages electronic data and shares it with the public and other units of government. Justice Viviano also expanded the use of videoconferencing to conduct court hearings more safely and efficiently.
Before becoming a judge, Justice Viviano worked at two nationally-recognized law firms, Dickinson Wright PLLC in Detroit and Jenner & Block LLC in Chicago. He then founded his own law firm in Mt. Clemens, Viviano & Viviano PLLC. He also served as City Attorney for the City of Center Line.
Justice Viviano received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Hillsdale College and his Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School.
Justice Viviano and his wife, Neran, live in Sterling Heights with their four children.
Macomb County
Sheriff Anthony Wickersham
Sheriff Anthony Wickersham began his career at the Macomb County Sheriff’s office in 1986 as a Correctional Officer. Over the years, he has served in every rank of the department until he was appointed to his current position as Sheriff in 2011.
Early on, Sheriff Wickersham was promoted to Deputy Sheriff and assigned to the Macomb Township Substation; during this time, he also served as a member of the County of Macomb Enforcement Team (COMET) as a narcotics investigator. With his hard work and dedication to the department, he was quickly promoted to Sergeant 1 and assigned to the afternoon shift until his promotion to full sergeant.
As a full sergeant, he was reassigned to the midnight shift; before long he was selected to be the Administrative Sergeant for the Detective Bureau. Sheriff Wickersham was promoted to Lieutenant and spent a short time on the midnight shift until he became the Detective Lieutenant in charge of the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office Detective Bureau. Sheriff Wickersham is a Firearms Instructor and Hostage/Crisis Negotiator at the Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Wickersham obtained his Associate Degree in Law Enforcement from Macomb Community College, a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Wayne State University in Interdisciplinary Studies and graduated from the Northwestern University Center of Public Safety School of Police Staff and Command. He also attended the 208 th Session of the F.B.I National Academy in Quantico, Virginia; as well as, the United States Secret Service Dignitary Protection School in Washington D.C.
Sheriff Wickersham is committed to maintaining the vital services that are needed to keep our community safe; while administrating plans to cut costs and save the dollars. He was born in Detroit and raised in Warren and now resides in Macomb Township.
OUR HISTORY
- 1994
- 1996
- 1999
- 2007
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2013
- 2016
- 2016
- 2019
- 2020
- 2023
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The Vision
19941994: John Nitz, an attorney with the Macomb County law firm of O’Reilly Rancilio, and a recent graduate of Leadership Detroit, gathered a group of Macomb County community and business leaders to discuss the establishment of a county-wide leadership program to be modeled after other successful leadership programs throughout the country. The Macomb Foundation, an affiliate of a local chamber, became the organizational “home” for the program. John Nitz served as President of the Leadership Macomb Board of Directors through June 30, 2011.
The Vision
John Nitz, an attorney with the Macomb County law firm of O’Reilly Rancilio, and a recent graduate of Leadership Detroit, gathered a group... -
Leadership Macomb Class I
19961996: The first Leadership Macomb program year began with 36 participants from a variety of industry sectors including education, healthcare, banking, finance, utilities, and government.
Leadership Macomb Class I
The first Leadership Macomb program year began with 36 participants from a variety of industry sectors.... -
Hiatus & Reorganization
19991999-2000: The program took a one year hiatus and was reorganized into a new non-profit 501(c)3 organization, Leadership Macomb, Inc. The Board established the program’s mission statement and organizational structure. Macomb Community College housed the program from 2000-2010 and also provided staff to help run the program.
Hiatus & Reorganization
The program took a one year hiatus and was reorganized into a new non-profit 501(c)3 organization, Leadership Macomb, Inc... -
Executive Director
20072007: In order to grow and expand the program, the Leadership Macomb Board of Directors hired Karen Smith as the full-time Executive Director. Karen is a graduate of Leadership Macomb X. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and a Master’s Degree in Management and had over 12 years experience in health care marketing and public relations before becoming the Executive Director of Leadership Macomb. Karen was tasked with growing the program in terms of participants, revenue and programs.
Executive Director
In order to grow and expand the program, the Leadership Macomb Board of Directors hired Karen Smith as the full-time Executive Director... -
Relocation
20102010: Leadership Macomb relocated its offices from Macomb Community College in Warren, to Baker College in Clinton Township. The move filled a need for more space, and Don Torline, President of Baker College and Leadership Macomb Board member, offered the space in-kind to Leadership Macomb.
Relocation
Leadership Macomb relocated its offices from Macomb Community College in Warren, to Baker College in Clinton Township... -
New Board President
20112011: On July 1, Roy Rose, President and CEO of Anderson, Eckstein and Westrick, was elected as the second President of the Leadership Macomb Board of Directors. Roy served as President until June 30, 2013.
New Board President
On July 1, 2011, Roy Rose was elected as the second President of the Leadership Macomb Board of Directors... -
Junior Leadership Macomb
20122012: Leadership Macomb Class XVI, at their graduation ceremony in June of 2012, presented a check to Leadership Macomb for $4,200. The money was to be used to start a leadership program for the youth in our community. The first Junior Leadership Macomb class started in September of that year with 25 students from various Macomb County high schools.
Junior Leadership Macomb
Leadership Macomb Class XVI, at their graduation ceremony in June of 2012, presented a check to Leadership Macomb for $4,200... -
Relocation to Mt. Clemens
20132013: Leadership Macomb relocates to space in downtown Mt. Clemens. The generous in-kind space that Baker College provided was now needed for expanded Baker College programs. The Leadership Macomb Board agreed that having space not affiliated with a college would help strengthen the Leadership Macomb Brand.
Relocation to Mt. Clemens
Leadership Macomb relocates to space in downtown Mt. Clemens. The generous in-kind space that Baker College... -
New Board President
20132013: On July 1, 2013, Steve Krajnik, Architect-Emeritus CDSM, Colonel, USAF (Retired), Chief of Engineering at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, was elected as President of the Leadership Macomb Board of Directors. Steve served as President until June 30, 2019.
New Board President
On July 1, 2013, Steve Krajnik was elected as the third President of the Leadership Macomb Board of Directors... -
First Customized Program
20162016: The Detroit Arsenal contracted with Leadership Macomb to offer a customized Leadership Macomb program for 16 of their employees. The Detroit Arsenal group graduated in April 2016.
First Customized Program
The Detroit Arsenal contracted with Leadership Macomb to offer a customized Leadership Macomb program... -
Relocation to Sterling Heights
20162016: In August, Leadership Macomb relocates to Sterling Heights. This move eliminated parking expenses, offered expanded office and meeting space, and lowered rent costs.
Relocation to Sterling Heights
In August, Leadership Macomb relocates to Sterling Heights. This move eliminated parking expenses... -
New Board President
20192019: On July 1, Jim Marchand, First Vice President of Investments at Marchand Advisory Group of Raymond James & Associates, was elected as the fourth President of the Leadership Macomb Board of Directors.
New Board President
On July 1, 2019 Jim Marchand was elected as the fourth President of the Leadership Macomb Board of Directors... -
COVID-19 Response
20202020: As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Leadership Macomb was unable to hold in person sessions for the 2020-2021 program year. To remain true to our mission, we developed a 10-part Learn with Leaders virtual series on relevant topics. The series was well received and attended by over 400 individuals.
COVID-19 Response
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Leadership Macomb was unable to hold in person sessions... -
25th Anniversary
2023Leadership Macomb celebrated its 25th anniversary in June of 2023. At the LM Class XXV graduation, we looked back over the past 25 years of community impact through vintage slideshows and trivia with Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel and LM Class I graduate Diana Rascano. We showcased numerous impact stories demonstrating how LM and JLM graduates have given back to Macomb County. Cheers to the next 25 years! We look forward to continuing our mission to educate leaders in our community about the assets and issues in Macomb County and encouraging graduates to be engaged in making a positive change in Macomb County!
25th Anniversary
Leadership Macomb celebrated its 25th anniversary in June of 2023.