Meet the MI-ACE Women's Network Conference Speakers
2026 Plenary Speakers
Breakout Session Speakers
Special Presentations
Mimi Brown, CSP
Enthusiastic, Sassy, Energetic-Fireball --- That is Amelia Mimi Brown
Mimi, as she is affectionally known, helps individuals and organizations add more power, pizzazz and punch to their lives and business. She mentors with passion, guiding her clients to effectively strengthen and elevate their leadership vision to new heights.
With over ten years of corporate training experience, a knack for making meaningful connections with audiences and an insatiable appetite for helping others maximize their potential, Mimi knows how to rock a platform, connect with a crowd and provide training so that others can effectively do the same.
Mimi’s down-to-earth humor compels audiences to laugh while they learn. She engages groups from the moment she steps in front of them and leaves them with empowering tools and focused mindsets that they will use long after the lights have gone out on the event. Mimi has passionate about people, leadership and successful businesses. She is especially inspired to help people take their careers – and themselves – to unprecedented levels.
She is the author of the book: AMP Up Your Success: 52 Tips Every Leader Should Know.
Mimi’s honors include being recognized as one of Michigan Oakland County Executive’s Elite 40 Under 40, Ms. Michigan Plus America 2015 and a proud contestant on NBC’s The Biggest Loser.
When not speaking or training, Mimi can be found creating delicious meals with chef and hubby Mr. Brown and bribing her snobby cat Kitty Brown with treats in exchange for snuggles.
Kim Becking
Author & Speaker
The driving force behind the Unstoppable Momentum™ Movement, Kim Becking is changing the way we think about change and resilience in a rapidly changing world that never slows down. An engaging, high energy and impactful international keynote speaker, New York Times Bestselling Author, human behavior expert, cancer thriver, recovering attorney and change and resilience researcher, Kim’s strategic insights and practical solutions have been utilized by hundreds of organizations ranging from Fortune 50 companies to associations and organizations around the world.
Kim’s expertise on reframing change and redefining resilience is regularly featured in media outlets such as the New York Times, People, Good Morning America, USA Today and Harvard Business Review.
Her mission is to empower leaders and teams with the mindset, tools and framework they need to be more adaptable, more resilient, and better equipped to own what’s now and embrace what’s next with a deep breath and a big cup of Bring It On. After hearing Kim, leaders leave with the framework, mindset, and tools to revolutionize their approach to change, challenges, and obstacles, embrace the power of possibility, and use any change or challenge as rocket fuel for forward growth, transforming their lives, leadership, and your organization.
Angie Morgan
Author & Speaker
Angie Morgan has helped thousands of individuals find their way to a new level of success.
A highly respected author and thought leader, she literally wrote the book on leadership, actually 3 of them (so far). In addition to her three books, Leading from the Front, Spark, and Bet on You, she’s a frequent contributor to Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, Inc., and other publications.
Over the past 20 years, she has worked with organizations like Google, FedEx, and Boston Scientific to develop their leadership potential through keynotes and consulting and has coached hundreds of individuals to the next stage of their careers.
Driven by a deep passion to help others access their potential, she frequently shares insights and lessons learned through her blog, social media, Bet on You Podcast, and online courses.
When she’s not helping others win, she’s hanging out with her two boys or running lakeside in training for her next race in Traverse City, Michigan.
Brandy Johnson
President
Michigan Community College Association
Brandy Johnson became President of the Michigan Community College Association in December 2021. Prior to this role, she served in the Governor’s administration, first as Governor Whitmer's education policy advisor and then as a manager of the Office of Sixty by 30 within the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. In 2010, she founded the Michigan College Access Network and served as its Executive Director until 2019. Brandy also served as policy fellow and college access coordinator under Governor Jennifer Granholm. She was appointed by Governor Whitmer to represent Michigan on the Midwest Higher Education Compact and served on Governor Snyder’s 21st Century Education Commission. She has been recognized for her leadership and advocacy by the Michigan Association of School Administrators, National College Access Network, American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, as well as by the Michigan College Access Network. Brandy earned her B.A. in Political Science from Arizona State University and her M.A.in Public Policy from the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan.
Dr. Nerita Hughes
President
Bay de Noc Community College
Nerita Hughes became the President of Bay de Noc Community College in July 2023. She previously worked at North Hennepin Community College in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, as the Interim Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs & Workforce Innovation and the Dean for the School of Business, Careers, Education & Workforce Innovation, as well as for Ramsey County, Minnesota, where she held the positions of Organizational Effectiveness & Development Manager and Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Manager. Dr. Hughes earned a Bachelor of Science from National American University as well as a Master’s of Business Administration and a Doctorate of Education in Leadership from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.
Dr. Hughes acquired knowledge in the areas of training and staff development, leadership development, racial equity, and other multi-faceted activities in the business and governmental realm. She has a special interest in strengths-based development, cultural competency development, and Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) Qualifying Administrator and Entrepreneurship, where she assists individuals with leveraging their innate talents to develop their strengths. In addition, within her roles, she has been instrumental in working with public and private sector leadership teams to embed and develop racial equity practices.
Dr. Hughes currently serves on the Board of Directors for and as a member of: UP Michigan Works! Workforce Development Board, Delta County Economic Development Alliance, Hannahville Legislative Taskforce, Dickinson Area Economic Development Alliance, Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes, Michigan Community College Association, American Association of Community Colleges Commission of Structured Pathways, President’s Roundtable Team, National Alliance of Community & Technical Colleges, Council to Advance Two-Year Colleges, and Thomas A. Lakin Institute for Mentored Leadership. She was appointed by Governor Whitmer to serve on the Michigan Workforce Development Board from 2025-2028.
Lastly, Dr. Hughes is a 2015 James P. Shannon Leadership Institute Fellow, 2019 Lakin Fellow, 2019 Young American Leaders Program (YALP) cohort, 2022 AACC Future Presidents Institute Fellow, and 2024-2025 Aspen Presidential Fellow.
Carla Sineway
President
Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College
Carla Sineway is an enrolled member of the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe and serves as President of the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College. Carla has a passion for the community and has been employed for the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe for 38 years. In her service to the tribe she has served as a Social Worker, Director of Education, Dean of Instruction & Student Services, and now currently serves as President of Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College. Carla holds a Master Arts Degree in Counseling from Central Michigan University and Master of Science in Education Administration from Capella University.
In her tenure with the tribe Carla has worked in the development of Tribal Child Welfare Codes, establishment of the Saginaw Chippewa Academy, Tribal Middle School, Alternative Education, GED Program, Higher Education Leadership Program, Recreation Program, Library and Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College.
As part of the founding team of the tribal college her passion for the students has not diminished but increased. Carla believes education can be a life changing experience, and that’s what Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College is doing, providing opportunity to change lives. As an active elder, Carla is committed to the continued service to the tribe and the students.
Pascale Charlot
Managing Director
Aspen College Excellence Program
Pascale Charlot is the Managing Director of the College Excellence Program (CEP). She is a visionary and outcomes-driven leader deeply committed to student success. An alumna of Aspen’s year-long Rising President Fellowship, Pascale plays a lead role in crafting and overseeing CEP’s strategy to develop a network of transformational colleges and leaders who share a relentless commitment to advancing student outcomes. Chief among these programs are Aspen’s Presidential Fellowships, which have graduated over 100 presidents of community colleges that together educate over a million-and-a-half students.
In the Fellowships and across CEP’s work, Pascale helps lead efforts to strengthen the inexorable connection between institutional reform and student success. Pascale studies systemic change and works with college leaders to build the institutional capacity for scaled, sustained reform. Through research, Pascale helps CEP identify excellent student success practices, and she disseminates those practices to the field through coaching, consulting, and working with external partners to advance talent development and economic mobility.
Prior to joining CEP, Pascale was at Aspen Prize-winning Miami Dade College, where she most recently served as president of the Kendall campus, the largest of the college’s eight. Pascale was also dean of Miami Dade’s highly regarded Honors College, where she developed and implemented a pathways strategy that increased the number of first-generation students who went on to attain a bachelor’s degree. Herself a transfer student, Pascale brings substantial expertise to one of Aspen’s core priorities: advancing post-graduation outcomes for all students. Demonstrable student learning, talent development, and economic mobility for students and families are key levers that inspire Pascale’s student-centered approach.
A graduate of Duke University and the University of Michigan Law School, Pascale also held leadership roles at both New York University and Rutgers law schools earlier in her career.
Lolita Cummings
Professor of Public Relations
Eastern Michigan University
Lolita Cummings, a professor of public relations, joined the Eastern Michigan University faculty in 1994. Prior to entering academia, Cummings worked as a successful public relations professional for numerous nonprofit organizations and a Fortune 500 corporation for nearly 10 years. She continues to consult with nonprofit organizations and businesses, specializing in corporate social responsibility, strategic planning, crisis communication, and more.
In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Cummings serves as the public relations program coordinator and internship coordinator, guiding the direction and activities of the program – and securing professional employment opportunities for students. Always searching for more ways to serve students and the university community, Cummings spearheaded “Enlighten U,” a monthly video podcast for students in 2023. Now in its second season, each episode focuses on a different aspect of mental health and includes an EMU student or alum -- and a mental health professional. The podcast recently won the Public Relations Society of America, Detroit Chapter, PR for Good Campaign Award. Episodes can be found on EMU’s YouTube page. It was also recently named the #1 mental health podcast in Michigan by Feedspot.
As a result of her efforts, Cummings has earned other awards as well, including EMU’s 2018 Distinguished Achievement Award for Community Service and Engagement. She was also featured in a Meemic Insurance 30-minute documentary and presented with the company’s 2020 LifeChanger in Education Award.
Cummings, an accredited member of Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), earned a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree in Communications from Eastern Michigan University.
Martha J. Grier
Lead Co-chair, Professional Development Committee
MI-ACE Executive Board (Emerita)
Institution and Position:
Wayne County Community College District
Associate Vice Chancellor for Board and Public Relations (Retired)
Martha J. Grier, has served for more than 35 years in the Office of the Chancellor at the Wayne County Community College District managing the daily operations in the Chancellor’s Office, Board of Trustees Office, and all external marketing and public information dissemination for the District. She officially retired as Associate Vice Chancellor for Board and Public Relations in 2014. However, she continues to serve in that role as a contracted employee (Grier Consulting LLC). She has represented the District at the local, state and national level, speaking at conferences and she served as the national conference co-chair for the League for Innovation in 2009. She co-chaired and facilitated sessions at the 2016 American Council on Education (ACE) Regional Women’s Leadership Forum held in Detroit.
Her commitment to women’s issues and literacy is evidenced through her involvement with Executive Women International (EWI) Detroit-Windsor Chapter, where she served as Chapter President in 2001. She is a member of the Advisory Board of the James Tatum Foundation for the Arts; Emeritus member on the Executive Board of the American Council on Education’s Michigan Women’s Network, and co-chair of the Professional Development Committee. She is an avid reader and loves to write. She has published in the “Great Leadership Newsletter” which is circulated to more than eleven hundred community colleges across the nation. At one time, she also served as the Editorial Director for the Newsletter.
She has received personal recognition from the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit as a “Minority Leader of the Year” in 2007; Corp! Magazine as one of the “Diversity Leaders of the Year” in 2008; in 2014, she received the “Success with Significance Award” from the Tree of Life Foundation for her contributions in higher education; and in 2016 she received the “Shaping Lives” award from the Distinguished Women in International Service. She is a champion of equality and her legacy includes actively participating in the civil rights movement in the 1960s in Alabama and Mississippi. Martha is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Sciences and Business Administration; and is an alumna of the EWI Leadership Academy.
Tenure with MI-ACE Women’s Network:
Martha began her tenure with MI-ACE in 2004 as an Institutional Representative from the Wayne County Community College District. She was immediately appointed to the Executive Board as chair of the newly established Professional Development Committee and served two terms. She later was appointed to the Executive Board as an Emerita Member. She again served on the Professional Development Committee and later became Committee lead co-chair. In 2016, Martha served as Co-Chair of the ACE Regional Forum, co-hosted by Wayne County Community College District and Wayne State University. In 2016, she spearheaded the establishment of the MI-ACE Speakers and Consultants Bureau and serves as its coordinator. In 2020, during a time when all activities of the Network went virtual due to the pandemic, she began to write a weekly web-post of leadership development tips and strategies called “Mentoring Mondays.”
Dr. Wanda Hudson
Dr. Wanda Hudson, Ed.D.
District Dean CIS/Cybersecurity/BUS
Wayne County Community College District
Educational Affairs Division
District Dean, CIS/Cybersecurity/Business
Wayne County Community College District
Educational Affairs Division
Dr. Wanda Hudson is a proud Detroit native whose journey in higher education began immediately after high school. She earned an Associate of Science in Data Management and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems (CIS) from the Detroit College of Business (now Davenport University), followed by a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems from the University of Detroit Mercy.
In 2013, she pursued a Doctorate in Education at Ferris State University, specializing in Leadership. With over 40 years of experience in the Information Technology industry, along with extensive teaching experience in Computer Information Systems, Cybersecurity, and Business, she transitioned into a leadership role in 2022 as the District Dean of Computer Information Systems and Business-related disciplines at Wayne County Community College District.
In addition to her career in academia and technology, Dr. Hudson has been an entrepreneur since 1996 as the owner of F1 PC Consulting Company, offering expertise in software management, training, and technology solutions. She holds multiple professional certifications, including Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), EPIC Blackboard Certification, and ISC2 Cybersecurity Certification. She is also a twice-published author.
On a personal note, Dr. Hudson has been happily married for 28 years and is a proud mother of four adult children and four grandchildren.
Dr. Hudson’s Motto: “Starve Your Distractions and Feed Your Focus”
Dr. Kathy Irwin
Dean of University Libraries
Central Michigan University
Kathy Irwin is a leader and educator who is passionate about lifelong learning and assisting others in developing their careers and strengthening their organizations. During her professional career, she has taught middle school and high school students, has provided library services and instruction, and has served as a manager, administrator, and leader. Currently, Irwin serves as dean of University Libraries at Central Michigan University and maintains a side gig as a consultant and career coach.
She earned a bachelor's degree in secondary education, a master’s degree in library and information science, a master’s degree in public administration with a focus on nonprofit leadership, a Ph.D. in educational leadership, and a graduate certificate in talent development.
Marlanna Landeros
Assistant Director
University of Michigan Health
Marlanna Landeros, MSW is the Assistant Director responsible for supporting and developing initiatives and practices designed to lead and promote diverse and inclusive resources and trainings for youth-serving professionals and health care providers on topics related to improving adolescent-centered health care though Adolescent Health Initiative (umhs-adolescenthealth.org), at University of Michigan Health. Among her core responsibilities, she oversees the implementation and development of the Adolescent Champion Model and Adolescent Centered-Environment Assessment Process (ACE-AP) across multiple states. Previously, over the last twenty years she worked in various capacities in public safety at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor.
Marlanna is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Michigan School of Social Work and Schoolcraft College. She is passionate about serving students and providing them with tools and resources to maximize their potential, while learning skills necessary for navigating their academic and social environments during their time as a student and beyond. Her goal is to widen the array of student experiences that promote leadership development.
Marlanna serves as a board member, co-chair of the Distinguished Women Award (DWA), previous co-chair of the Women of Color Collaborative (WOCC), and a member on other committees for the Michigan American Council on Education network (MI-ACE). She has presented on and facilitated various topics to include leadership, professional development strategies, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related topics at academic and professional conferences. She has completed and participated in numerous university initiatives on campus climate, career development, leadership, and inclusive practices. She is an executive board member on the University of Michigan Women of Color Task Force, serves as the chair for the Washtenaw County Community College Women’s Council, a charter member of the Association of Social Workers in Higher Education, a community advisory board member for Ele's Place and has served on the University of Michigan School of Social Work Community Advisory Board.
Marlanna holds a Master of Social Work and bachelor's degree in sociology from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. Her social work area of study is in interpersonal practice in mental health, with a minor in management of human services.
Dr. Sharon Lewis
CIS faculty Instructor
Wayne County Community College
Greetings everyone! My name is Dr. Sharon Lewis, and I have been teaching computer science and serving my community since 2001. I am a lifelong learner with a Bachelor and Master of Science in Computer Information Systems from the University of Detroit Mercy; a Master of Science in Secondary Education; a Master of Art in Educational Leadership from Marygrove College, a Doctorate in Administrative Leadership and in Higher Education from Gwynedd Mercy University with a host of certifications.
I am currently a full-time CIS faculty Instructor at Wayne County Community College District and Part-time Faculty Instructor at Lawrence Technological University. I enjoy listening to live music, singing, and exploring new places. I also worked for GEMS corporation Bradenton Preparatory Academy in Sports City Dubai, UAE in which I taught Computer Science courses, and enjoyed the food, beaches, shopping, and meeting new educators.
A great well-known leader once said:
"The only way to do great work is to love what you do".
Steve Jobs
Dr. Linda Logan
Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer
University of Olivet
MI-ACE Network Position: Executive Board Member
Dr. Linda Logan serves as Vice President and Chief Inclusion Officer at The University of Olivet. She previously spent 14 years as Vice President and Dean of Student Life and has been a member of the University’s community for more than 26 years. During her tenure, she also served as Chair of the Social Science Department and Director of the Criminal Justice program. Before joining The University of Olivet, Dr. Logan was a researcher at Michigan State University and spent over 20 years as a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Counselor. She earned her Ph.D. in Human Development from Michigan State University, a master’s degree in counseling from Central Michigan University, and a bachelor’s degree from Saginaw Valley State University.
Dr. Logan’s work focuses on creating a campus atmosphere, fostering growth, understanding, and a strong sense of belonging. She leads research projects that assess campus climate to inform initiatives aligned with the institution’s strategic goals. In addition, she serves as an ex-officio member of a university committee dedicated to cultivating respect and community engagement. She is the advisor to Mu Omega Pi and a past advisor to Nu Gamma Xi, Zonta Golden Z Group, and Women’s Empowerment Group.
Deeply committed to service, Dr. Logan has served as the past the State Chair of Michigan American Council on Education, Co-Chair of Young Women Strong Leaders, Annual Conference, Past Co-Chair of the Institutional Representative Committee, Past Co-Chairwomen of Color Collaborative, Past Chair of Equal Pay Day Policy Sub-Committee, Past University of Olivet Institutional Chair, and speaker for the MIACE Speaker’s Bureau. She has been a MIACE Member for over 24 years.
Dr. Logan has participated on the Eaton County Emergency Pandemic Planning Commission and is the past president of both the Zonta Club of Michigan Capital Area and the Lansing Association of Women’s Club. She serves as president of the Michigan Indiana Region Missionary Society and has acted as a liaison for The University of Olivet and the Eaton County Sheriff’s Department. Her leadership roles also include chairing the Greater Lansing Area Club of Business and Professional Women’s Suits for Success Campaign and serving as a past Capital Area United Way Executive Board member.
Dr. Logan has numerous publications on family dynamics, Greek life, student success, and has presented on these topics nationally. She is also a minister, and a widow, and she has two adult children, six grandchildren and one great grandson.
Dr. Carmen McCallum
Associate Dean in the College of Education
Eastern Michigan University
Dr. Carmen M. McCallum is an Associate Dean in the College of Education at Eastern Michigan University. She has served as assistant professor, associate professor, academic advisor and lecturer at various institutions. Her research interests include access and retention within graduate education; African American students and faculty; programmatic assessment and evaluation; graduate students; and mentoring experiences. She is particularly interested in understanding how race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status influence students’ graduate school experiences. Her work has been published in the Journal of College Student Development, Journal of Diversity in Higher Education, Readings on Equal Education and About Campus. Her co-author book Inclusive Supervision in Student Affairs: A Model for Professional Practice, was published by Rutledge in 2019. She has received funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Health to support her research on mentoring.
Precious Miller
Program Director
Michigan Community College Association
Precious joined the MCCA in February 2020 as the MI-BEST Coordinator, leading efforts to create and sustain college systems that offer holistic support for students. In her current role, Precious collaborates with members to identify and address the unique needs of Michigan's community college students and employees. She also works to develop partnerships, provide training, advocacy, and create opportunities for fostering campus cultures of belonging.
Precious' background includes extensive experience in removing barriers for students and their families (K-12), implementation of a holistic student success model at Western Michigan University, providing CliftonStrengths coaching, and coordinating care for adults with mental illness. As a WMU Alumna, Precious received her B.A. in Social Work and is a Licensed Master Social Worker.
Dr. Aesha Mustafa
Assistant Professor in the Department of Leadership and Counseling
Eastern Michigan University
Dr. Aesha Mustafa (she/her) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Leadership and Counseling at Eastern Michigan University (EMU). Her research examines how Black tenure-track faculty at predominantly White research one institutions navigate personal and professional commitments while balancing institutional demands.
Dr. Mustafa’s expertise in academic well-being and mental health is informed by her work as a licensed clinical social worker and co-owner of Integrative Empowerment Group, a Ypsilanti, Michigan-based private practice specializing in providing affirming and inclusive mental health services for marginalized communities. Drawing from this clinical experience, she also serves as the Resident Mental Health Expert on Enlighten U, EMU’s award-winning mental health podcast for students, where she provides insights and strategies to support students' emotional well-being and academic success.
Committed to fostering joy in academia, Dr. Mustafa’s scholarship, clinical practice, and public engagement focus on promoting sustainable well-being, practical self-care strategies, and mental health advocacy, particularly for Black, queer, and trans communities.
Dr. Erica Orians
Vice President
Michigan Community College Association
Erica is MCCA’s Vice President. She joined the MCCA in 2015 where she supports community colleges in their efforts to improve student success. Erica previously held positions at the University of Utah, The Ohio State University, Miami University- Middletown campus, and the Columbus College of Arts and Design. Erica has taught undergraduate and graduate-level courses at several institutions of higher education and enjoys staying active in local, state, and national professional organizations. She earned both her B.A. in History, and her M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs from The Ohio State University. Erica earned her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Utah where her dissertation focused on benchmarking and efficiency among rural community colleges.
Dr. Stephanie Lee
Administrator
Oakland University
Dr. Stephanie J. Lee joined Oakland University’s department of Academic Affairs in September 2002 and since that time has progressed in her responsibilities to hold various administrative appointments.
In her current position as Administrative Associate, Dr. Lee provides counsel and management support to the University’s Provost. She is responsible for leading or coordinating a variety of matters within the Provost’s office, in collaboration with the Office of the President, Board of Trustees, Communications and Marketing office, and other campus units. She also oversees the coordination of university events, including commencement ceremonies, workshops and dinners.
Dr. Lee teaches Collegiate Communication 1100 at Oakland University to incoming freshmen students. Fall 2025, will mark her 19th year in this role.
In 2019, Dr. Lee won the Oakland University’s Phyllis Law Googasian Award, which recognizes those who have contributed to the advancement of women at the university and beyond through distinguished leadership, scholarship, advocacy, mentoring, program development or other activities. She also won the 2021 Black Women Rock Alumni Award through the university’s Center for Multicultural Initiatives. It honors Black women and allies who have demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership, service, and professionalism. In 2022, Dr. Lee won the Gary Bernstein 2022 Esteem Women of Michigan Award because of her commitment to enrich lives of others through her extensive community engagement endeavors and her outstanding leadership expertise. These recognitions demonstrate Dr. Lee’s lifelong commitment and pursuit of excellence and acts to inspire others, especially women and those from underrepresented communities.
Dr. Lee received her bachelor’s degree in Communication from Oakland University, a master’s degree in Education from Central Michigan University, a Post-Master’s Certificate in Higher Education and a Doctor of Education from Oakland.
Dr. Emily Sorroche
Associate Director for the Office of Culture, Access, and Belonging
College of Agriculture and Natural Resources
Dr. Emily Sorroche is the Associate Director for the Office of Culture, Access, and Belonging in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. In this role, she serves as the principal investigator for the USDA-funded Growing Native American Student Pathways into Agriculture program.
Dr. Sorroche is also an adjunct professor in the College of Arts and Letters, where she teaches Indigenous Methodologies for the American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program. She serves as the President of Educating Anishinaabe: Giving, Learning, and Empowering (EAGLE) and is a faculty affiliate of the American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program. Dr. Sorroche is on the executive board of the Coalition of Racial and Ethnic Minorities (COREM), advancing equity and representation. Additionally, she advises the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES).
In the broader community, Dr. Sorroche serves as chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Board for the City of Lansing. Co-Director of the Indigenous Youth Empowerment Program (IYEP) and small business owner of Cayuriqua, where she creates custom beadwork jewelry.
Emily is a citizen of the Cayuga Nation of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy.
Dr. Dawn Hinton
Associate Provost for Academic Affairs
Saginaw Valley State University
A seasoned academic leader with nearly three decades of experience in higher education. As Associate Provost for Academic Affairs at Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU), she has driven initiatives focused on student success, diversity, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Her leadership is defined by innovative program development, strategic oversight, and a strong commitment to community engagement.
Dr. Hinton began her SVSU career in 1997 as an Assistant Professor of Sociology, rising to the rank of Professor. She has taught courses on social inequality, urban sociology, and Black women in America. As Director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL), she introduced Faculty Learning Communities, engaged over 50 faculty members, and expanded the use of Open Educational Resources in General Education.
A champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), Dr. Hinton led DEI councils and community projects like the Sankofa Project, which connected underserved youth to global cultures. She also helped establish a sister city partnership between Saginaw, Michigan, and Amanokrom, Ghana.
Dr. Hinton played a key role in securing and implementing grant-funded programs, including the MiLEAP Student Success Grant and TRIO programs. Her leadership has earned her accolades such as Michigan ACE Institutional Representative of the Year (2023) and Great Lakes Bay Region Woman of the Year (2020).
She holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in Sociology from Western Michigan University and a B.A. from the University of Michigan-Flint. Dr. Hinton’s career reflects a steadfast dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity.
Dr. Diane Anderson
Vice President for Student Affairs
Western Michigan University
Dr. Diane Anderson came to Western Michigan University in 1994 as dean of students; was promoted to associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students in 1999; and in July 2002, became vice president for student affairs. Prior to her time at WMU, Anderson worked in student affairs at Lynchburg College in Virginia, University of Maryland at College Park, Southern Methodist University in Dallas and Michigan State University. Anderson earned a Ph.D. in college student personnel administration from University of Maryland, an M.A. in higher education administration from Michigan State University, and a B.A. in literature from Wheaton College in Illinois. She is well versed in the operations of all student affairs functional areas and has extensive experience in supervision, organizational change, conflict resolution, and student learning and development. Diane has been involved with the MI-ACE Women's Network during most of her tenure at Western Michigan University and has served in various roles for the organization. She treasures all of the amazing women she has met through the network and has appreciated the knowledge she has gained and the friendships she has made.
Dr. Christine Hammond
Interim President
College of DuPage
Dr. Christine M. Hammond is the Interim President at the College of DuPage in Illinois. Previously, she served as the President of Mid Michigan College from June 2014 through her retirement in June 2020. President Hammond’s efforts were recognized at the State and national level. She received the Shirley M. Gordon Award of Distinction and the Bennett Lifetime Achievement Award from Phi Theta Kappa; the Patriot Award from the Employer Support of Guard and Reserves organization in 2018; and the Key Partner Award from MSU Extension in 2019. Dr. Hammond’s career integrates numerous leadership experiences in student and academic affairs across a variety of institutional settings.
President Hammond holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Thiel College, a Master of Arts degree in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University, and a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from Michigan State University.
Dr. Jacqueline Taylor
Leadership Consultant
Pondera Leadership Consulting
"Jackie" is a talented executive, board member, consultant, and entrepreneur. She has served the education community for over 25 years including positions of VP for College and Community Relations, a Provost, a Chief Operating Officer, a VP of Diversity and Cultural Affairs, a VP of Development, and as a President. Jackie’s work as an executive was with the following colleges and universities: Davenport University, Community College of Alleghany County (PA), Fulton- Montgomery Community College (NY), and Lansing Community College. Prior to joining Pondera, Jackie founded and operated her own consulting firm. Jackie obtained her Master’s degree and Ph.D. in College & University Administration from Michigan State University. She is certified to administer Myers Briggs Type Assessments and has published articles and made presentations on Leadership Development, Organizational Change, Total Quality Management, Diversity, and Multicultural topics. She has received numerous awards for leadership, excellence and achievement, including Distinguished Alumna Awards from Lansing Community College, Aquinas College, and MSU.
Gabrielle Burgess-Smith
Adjunct Lecturer | Faculty Advisor for PRSSA
Eastern Michigan University
Gabrielle is a faculty advisor for PRSSA and an adjunct lecturer in the English Department, where she combines her extensive industry experience with her passion for teaching and mentoring the next generation of communication professionals. With over a decade of experience in communications, marketing, and public relations, Gabrielle has worked with government agencies, educational institutions, private companies, and county and state health sectors.
A two-time graduate of Eastern Michigan University, Gabrielle earned her bachelor's degree in Public Relations and holds double master’s degrees in Communications and Marketing Management. She is currently pursuing her doctorate at Wayne State University, focusing her research on creating a more inclusive curriculum for marginalized students. Gabrielle is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), and the Order of the Eastern Star, PHA. Her commitment to education, equity, and strategic communication drives her work both inside and outside the classroom, empowering students and communities alike.
Dr. Michelle Southward
Director, Newnan Academic Advising Center
University of Michigan
Dr. Michelle Southward is an exceptional leader whose remarkable journey in higher education spans nearly 25 years. At present she holds the prestigious role as Director for the Newnan LSA Academic Advising Center at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor campus, where her leadership and dedication helps to shape the future of countless students' academic journeys.
Dr. Southward’s educational background is a testament to her unwavering commitment to learning and excellence. She earned her BA in Communication from Oakland University, followed by a MA in Counseling from the same institution. Her pursuit of knowledge did not stop there, as she earned a MS in Administration from Central Michigan University and a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Oakland University. This extensive academic foundation has not only equipped her with the knowledge and skills to thrive in higher education but also reflects her passion for understanding the complexities of organizational dynamics and leadership.
Throughout her career, she has been a tireless advocate for student success and staff excellence, earning numerous accolades for her contributions to the field as well being elected to serval in several leadership roles. She is a proud recipient of the NACADA Advising Administrator Award, a distinction that highlights her exceptional work in academic advising and her commitment to fostering environments where students and staff can succeed and flourish as well as the Administrative Professional of the Year Award, just to highlight a couple. Her professional journey has been driven by a deep belief in the transformative power of education and a commitment to making a lasting impact on the lives of others.
In addition to her leadership role, Dr. Southward has held a lecturer status at the collegiate level for over 20 years. Her experience as an educator allows her to not only inspire students in the classroom but also to guide them through the challenges of higher education with empathy and wisdom.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, she remains committed to uplifting her community through active volunteer work. Dr. Southward understands the importance of community engagement, and she works tirelessly to make a difference, inspiring others to do the same.
Above all, she treasures her time with her family. Whether it’s a quiet evening at home or a lively family gathering, she finds great joy in the moments spent with loved ones. Her family is her anchor, providing support and balance as she continues her tireless work in higher education and community service.
Dr. Southward’s commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement sets a high standard for leadership in higher education. Her work has impacted countless students, and she continues to leave a legacy of compassion, empowerment, and dedication wherever she goes.
Dr. Christine Benson
Vice President of Student Affairs and Mission Integration
Adjunct Assistant Professor
Madonna University
Chris Benson, Ph.D., serves as the Vice President for Student Affairs and Mission Integration at Madonna University in Livonia, Michigan. Prior to her current role, she served as an Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, and had support roles for the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs. Chris is a member of the MI-ACE Executive Board and chair of the Public Policy committee. In addition to over 20 years in higher education, Chris supported executive-level leaders for a multinational information technology equipment and services company.
Dr. Shai James Boyd
Assistant Director of Institutional Advancement
Henry Ford College
Dr. Shai James Boyd is an exemplary nonprofit professional with an impressive career dedicated to community-building and fostering positive change. With over 27 years of experience, she has not only made significant contributions to the field of fundraising but has also been a trailblazer as the first African American woman in southeast Michigan to earn the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation in 2007.
In her current role as Assistant Director of Institutional Advancement at the Henry Ford College Foundation, Dr. Boyd manages key areas such as fund development, alumni relations, and departmental operations. Her leadership extends beyond her professional responsibilities, as she also plays an active role in campus organizations like the HFC Women’s Network, the Black Employees Association, and the Local 71 Reclassification Committee.
Dr. Boyd’s dedication to mentorship and community service is a defining aspect of her career. She has been recognized for her contributions as Mentor of the Year by the University of Michigan-Dearborn and has received numerous awards, including the Youth Volunteer Corps Award, Big Sister of the Year Award, and the Spirit of Detroit Award. She has also served on influential boards like Teen HYPE and the University of Michigan-Dearborn African American Alumni Affiliate.
An advocate for diversity, empowerment, and higher education, Dr. Boyd’s leadership extends to her work with women of color in higher Education. As co-chair of the Women of Color Collaborative (WOCC), she fosters a supportive environment for women of color in academia. She serves on several high-impact boards, including the MI-ACE State Board of Directors and the CASE Community College Advisory Council.
Dr. Boyd’s passion for lifelong learning is reflected in her academic achievements, including a Doctorate in Community College Leadership from Ferris State University. She has also completed prestigious programs like the Greater Good Nonprofit Leadership Program at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and participated in leadership initiatives such as Leadership Detroit and the Detroit Executive Leadership Circle. In addition to her academic credentials, Dr. Boyd is a recognized speaker and presenter, sharing her expertise on leadership and fundraising at local, regional, and national conferences.
Her deep commitment to service extends into her personal life, where she is a Diamond Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and a licensed Evangelist Missionary in the Church of God in Christ (COGIC). Dr. Boyd’s professional and personal life is grounded in her support for her husband, Wilson J. Boyd, her greatest cheerleader and supporter.
Dr. Boyd’s career and contributions reflect her unyielding dedication to strengthening communities, empowering others, and promoting diversity, all while leading with compassion and vision.
Shon’ta Dwyer
Dean, Technical Careers Division
Lansing Community College
Shon’ta Dwyer is a dedicated leader in technical education and workforce development, bringing nearly two decades of experience to her role. As the Dean of the Technical Careers Division at Lansing Community College, she oversees career and technical training programs in Advanced Manufacturing, Transportation Technology, Computer Information Technology, Trades Technology, and Public Service Careers, ensuring students gain the skills needed to thrive in today’s workforce.
A strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), Shon’ta is passionate about expanding opportunities for underrepresented populations, particularly men of color and women in technical career fields. Prior to her tenure at LCC, she served as the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Manager at Peckham, where she led workforce development programs that provided low-income adults and dislocated workers with access to training, career support, and sustainable employment pathways.
Recognized for her compassionate leadership and commitment to breaking barriers to economic mobility, Shon’ta is dedicated to empowering individuals with the resources and opportunities needed to succeed.
She holds a Master of Science in Administration with a focus on Leadership from Central Michigan University and a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies-Human Resources with a minor in Sociology from Michigan State University.
Dr. CharMaine Hines
Vice Chancellor, Academic Accountability and Policy
Wayne County Community College District
Dr. CharMaine Hines is a seasoned scholar, practitioner, and leader in higher education. She has held progressive leadership positions at both public and private universities and community college(s) in Michigan. Her current role is the Vice Chancellor of Academic Accountability at Wayne County Community College District.
CharMaine’s service work as an executive officer and/or member includes; the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Commission on Public Relations Advocacy and Advancement, American Council on Education’s (ACE) MI-ACE Women’s Network, Higher Learning Commission’s (HLC) North Central Accrediting Peer Reviewer Corps, Presidents Round Table (PRT) of African American Community College CEOs, statewide career, and technical student association, and proud member of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority Incorporated Ann Arbor Alumnae Chapter.
A proud King/Chavez/Parks Faculty Fellow and servant leader who is deeply committed to and passionate about access to education and life-long learning, Dr. Hines is a highly regarded regional and national presenter on a range of topics related to academia, leadership, and communication.
Dr. Kimberly Hurns
Vice Chancellor for Student Services
Oakland Community College
Dr. Kimberly M. Hurns is a higher-education professional with over 25 years’ experience working in community colleges as faculty, dean and an executive. She has served as chief academic officer and now proudly serves as Vice Chancellor for Student Services. As a first-generation college student, Hurns is extremely passionate about college access and measurable student success.
She has been instrumental in leading work that increases graduation rates for students by re-engineering operations and reducing barriers that have included the implementation of technology, realigning advising, reimagining liberal arts, supporting STEM and developing a vibrant Teaching and Learning Center. As a business faculty at heart who knows the economic power of entrepreneurship, Hurns led the development of the extremely successful Entrepreneurship Center at Washtenaw Community College. Hurns also initiated the first articulation agreement with a Historically Black College (HBCU) with a Michigan Community College.
As an advocate for women, Hurns has served as state chair of Michigan-ACE Women’s network; an affiliate of the American Council of Education. Hurns was recognized as a Notable Woman in Educational Leadership by Crain’s Detroit Business in 2019 and a 2022 Michigan Chronicle Woman of Excellence. She is an 2021-22 Aspen Institute Rising President Fellow.
Hurns is a visionary, authentic and progressive leader who believes strong teams drive success. The most important team that she leads with her husband Norman Clayton Hurns Sr. is Team Hurns. They have three children, Rhyan who is a junior at North Carolina Central University, Norman Jr. who is a sophmore at North Carolina A & T State University and Kyla who is a Higher Education Policy Analyst at Ed Trust in the District of Columbia.
Dr. Hurns is a life-member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Angela Mathews
Lansing Community College
Ms. Mathews has been a lifelong resident of Lansing for over 30 years. She is a proud Alumni of Lansing Community College where she earned a degree in Human Services from Lansing Community College. She is also a graduate of Siena Heights University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Community Human Services, August 2020, the Inaugural Class of the Pandemic! Ms. Mathews established her career in Lansing and dedicated herself as a long-standing Community Activist in the Lansing area. Throughout her career, she has served the Ingham County Register of Deeds’ office, Lansing School District, Hope Central Academy, and several nonprofits, including the former Youth Development Corporation and March for Justice. Ms. Mathews serves as the Executive Director of the Connection TV Show and is a Lead Correspondent and Producer for Urban Interest News Program.
She is a staunch advocate for seniors, youth, and children who are amongst the most underserved and voiceless, in communities. Her advocacy has helped displaced seniors obtain safe and affordable housing, in Michigan and Arizona. Ms. Mathews believes in supporting community events where you will find her attending and/or volunteering. She believes in righteous leadership thus she has served on committees such as MRJEA (co-lead for Arts and Culture), and Lansing Juneteenth - Director of Communications, Media, and Promotions.
Among her many achievements, Angela received the 2018 Global Women's Dialogue/IChange Nations Awards – in Grand Rapids, Michigan. In addition, she received the Community Service Award from the Greater Lansing Area Club (GLAC) of The National Association of Business and Professional Women's Clubs, Inc. (NANBPWC) in April 2020.
Dr. Connie Tingson Gatuz
Associate Vice President for Student Life
University of Michigan
Dr. Connie Tingson Gatuz is the State Chair of the Michigan ACE Women’s Network and serves as Associate Vice President for Student Life at the University of Michigan.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Dr. Tingson Gatuz developed a heightened awareness of the impact of leadership and mentorship while growing up in a struggling multigenerational extended family of immigrants. Prior to joining the University of Michigan, she served as Vice President for Student Affairs & Mission Integration and Adjunct Assistant Professor at Madonna University for over a decade, where she was the first Person of Color and the only woman to serve on the Executive Council at that time. Driven by her passion for developing community leaders, she trained reviewers for the largest worldwide scholarship, developed curricula, and guided trainers of a national college student leadership program.
With a career in higher education that spans over three decades, she has been nationally, regionally, and locally recognized by community-based organizations and professional associations for her excellence in education, community service, and ‘breaking the glass ceiling.’ Dr. Tingson Gatuz has also been commended as an outstanding mentor and pioneer community educator, such as through her mentorship of aspiring executive women leaders at national forums. She received a bachelor’s degree in political science, a master’s degree in college and university administration, and a doctorate in higher education administration, all from Michigan State University.
Sonia Treviño
Director, Hispanic/Latino Cultural Center
Ferris State University
Sonia Treviño is the Director of the Hispanic/Latino Cultural Center with our Ferris State University. She leads diverse, inclusive programming that highlights and celebrates the Hispanic/Latino culture to provide an educationally immersive experience for Ferris State students and our community partnerships throughout West Michigan. Sonia has demonstrated exceptional, proven leadership, and experience to this role following seven years as a member of the faculty and chair of the behavioral and social sciences department at Texas Southmost College. Sonia was awarded professor of the year by criminal justice students in 2015, an award reflective of her passion for, and commitment to, educational excellence. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Texas Brownsville, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Texas Pan American, post-graduate coursework from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and is completing a Doctorate in Community College Leadership at Ferris State University. Sonia also currently serves Ferris State as proud advisor to Gamma Phi Omega, Lambda Theta Phi, the Hispanic Student Organization, and the Asian Student Organization and sits on a variety of university committees. Lastly, she has a deep love for anything chocolate, Christmas decorating and pushing boundaries whenever possible.
Dr. Andreea Bordeianu
College of Arts and Sciences
Oakland University
Dr. Bordeianu earned her graduate doctoral and master’s degrees in Educational Leadership and Counseling (Mental Health and School specializations) from Oakland University, Michigan, a graduate certificate in Global Education from Harvard University, and completed her undergraduate education in Educational Psychology in Iasi, Romania. Being an educator at heart, since 1991 she taught, counseled, advised, mentored, and guided students from preschool, all the way to college and beyond, at the Alex & Marie Manoogian School in Southfield, The Roeper School in Bloomfield Hills and since 2006 at Oakland University. Using her expertise in global competencies and education, Dr. Bordeianu is part of the World Council on Intercultural and Global Competence, has presented internationally on her work, and has led research projects in teacher preparation programs and professional academic advising. She initiated and coordinated collaborative programs, pursuing her passion projects related to global women in academia, with universities in the States and worldwide. Her approach to global education is through transformative experiences, involvement, and engagement in local-to-global projects with the goals of bringing awareness of world issues, showing appreciation and support to those affected by injustice, advocating for humanity and being an ally, and taking action and bringing change for a better world. At Oakland University she serves on the executive board for the Women and International Employee Resource Groups, which culminated with the proposal for the initiation of the MI ACE interest group for Global Women in Higher Education, in collaboration with Dr. Mamiko Reeves and Halima Mohiuddin. As a volunteer, Dr. Bordeianu dedicates her time to being an active leader in the community as the founder of the American Romanian Cultural Society in Detroit, the founder and president of the Tangent Club USA, a non-profit organization promoting women's wellness through “glocal” friendship and service, and as a School Board vice-president at Escuela Avancemos Academy in Detroit. With a house filled with Grizzlies, including her husband, her three children, and the furry Australian Shepherd, Dr. B(ee), as students call her, is in truth a busy bee, dedicated to serving students and leading with her heart to spread kindness and compassion around the world.
Dr. Amy Radford-Popp
Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director, School of Packaging
Michigan State University
Amy Radford-Popp, Ph.D. serves as an Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director within the School of Packaging at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan.
With over 30 years of experience in higher education, Amy has served in various leadership, and support roles across both student and academic affairs, including the role of chief student affairs officer, in which she lead senior level teams and managed multiple student success, career readiness, and engagement programs. As a first-generation college student, she is committed to helping all students and staff find their purpose and passion, and to connect and engage with various teaching and learning high impact experiences that will enrich their overall professional development. As an inclusive leader and advocate, she prioritizes the importance of creating a culture of inclusion, belonging, wellness, and respect. Amy is a member of the MI-ACE Executive Board and chair of the Professional Development Committee.
Dr. Aura J. Cazares
Chief Administrative Officer
Michigan Hispanic Collaborative (MiHC)
Dr. Aura J. Cazares is a dedicated nonprofit leader with over two decades of experience in higher education, specializing in creating impactful strategies that drive community engagement and support student success. Her expertise focuses on aligning organizational goals with measurable outcomes, particularly in areas such as strategic enrollment management, student retention, employee culture enhancement, and risk reduction. Dr. Cazares has worked across a wide range of educational institutions, including Catholic Jesuit universities, Hispanic-Serving Institutions, community colleges, and public research universities.
A champion for educational and professional attainment, Dr. Cazares is committed to promoting cultural humility, mental health initiatives, and creating sustainable work environments. As a first-generation immigrant, she brings a unique perspective that strengthens her ability to build strong partnerships with school districts, community organizations, and other stakeholders. Through collaboration, she fosters opportunities that have a lasting and meaningful impact on the communities she serves.
Halima Mohiuddin
Transformational Higher Education Executive
Wayne County Community College District
Halima Mohiuddin is a globally respected higher education executive, leadership strategist, and executive development coach with over two decades of experience driving institutional transformation, leadership capacity-building, and cross-sector innovation across academic and corporate landscapes.
Currently serving as Campus Associate Dean at Wayne County Community College District and Expert Columnist for Higher Education Digest®, she has led the design and advancement of over 2,000 workforce development programs, public-private partnerships, and global leadership panels—uniting voices from government, industry, and academia to accelerate student success and institutional relevance.
As Founder and CEO of Leadership Think Tanks (LTT), Ms. Mohiuddin leads a national platform advancing scalable leadership pipelines and workforce-ready models that support emerging professionals and executive leaders alike.
She has served as a professional development coach and leadership advisor to several S&P 500 corporations—including Procter & Gamble and Nestlé—and has been engaged by executive development teams at global institutions such as The World Bank, The Commonwealth, and multiple government agencies. Her specialization spans finance, healthcare management, MIS, process engineering, and innovation strategy, with a consistent emphasis on aligning vision with measurable outcomes.
Ms. Mohiuddin holds three MBA degrees in Healthcare Management, Management Information Systems, and Finance, an Executive Leadership Certification from Cornell University, and is completing her EdD in Community College Leadership at Kansas State University, focusing on community college leadership learning systems and institutional agility.
Her cross-sector expertise includes academic innovation, strategic planning, executive coaching, credentialing frameworks, and civic engagement. She is FEMA-certified in crisis response, a Six Sigma Black Belt, and a Homeland Security graduate.
Passionately invested in transforming the global education landscape, Ms. Mohiuddin brings a deeply mission-centered approach to leadership—one rooted in collaboration, innovation, and sustainable impact at scale.
Dr. Mamiko Reeves
Co-founder
Machi Training and Research, LLC
Dr. Mamiko Reeves is a co-founder of Machi Training and Research, LLC. Machi Training and Research LLC specializes in education consulting fostering international collaboration and enhancing educational opportunities by connecting academic institutions across borders. Machi Training and Research, LLC. provides expert advice on transnational education models, helping K-12 schools and universities develop and implement programs that cater to diverse, global student populations. Additionally, Machi Training and Research, LLC offers a variety of short-term programs designed to provide immersive, cross-cultural educational experiences. Their services are tailored to support the unique needs of each client, ensuring successful and sustainable international partnerships in the education sector.
Mamiko is currently serving as the Program Manager for Youth Ambassador Program at the USA Pavilion, 2025 Osaka World Expo representing the USA. She selected, trained and nurtured 89 American Youth Ambassadors who are serving as the Face of America at this world event for 6 months. Previously, Mamiko served as the Assistant Vice President, as well as International Strategist at Northwood University, Midland, Michigan where she played a pivotal role in shaping the institution's global footprint. With a diverse and accomplished background, Mamiko had spearheaded the identification and development of International Program Centers, launching degree programs worldwide, and fostering partnerships to promote the principles of the free market and entrepreneurship. She successfully oversaw transnational programs in multiple countries, including China, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Switzerland, and the United Arab Emirates, and laid foundations for expansion into France, Ghana, Ireland, Vietnam, Japan, and Mexico.
Beyond her institutional responsibilities, Mamiko has been a tireless advocate for global education, leading award-winning study abroad initiatives and collaborating with organizations like the Young Presidents' Organization & World Presidents’ Organization (YPO-WPO) and The Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women working with female entrepreneurs in Afghanistan and Rwanda. Recognized for her contributions, Mamiko has received prestigious awards such as the Global Impact Award in 2022 from Young People Travel Global Edge and the International Distinguished Fellowship Award in 2023 from African Women Leadership Academy. And in August 2024, she was inducted into Marquis Who’s Who. Actively engaged in various leadership roles, she serves on the executive board for MI ACE Women's Network, the board of Youth for Understanding USA, Accra Business School (Ghana), Award for Training and Higher Education (UK), Rotary Midland Morning Club (USA), International Institute of Management and Technology (India) and City Education (Ireland).
Born in Nagoya, Japan, Mamiko earned her B.A. from Nanzan University, an M.A. in Counseling from Central Michigan University, and a Doctorate in Education in Organizational Leadership from Northeastern University. Her extensive career encompasses roles in corporate settings, education, and international exchange, reflecting her commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and academic excellence.
Dr. Andrea Beach
Co-founder/Co-Director
Center for Research on Instructional Change in Postsecondary Education (CRICPE)
Dr. Andrea L. Beach is a Professor of Higher Education Leadership and is co-Founder and co-Director of the Center for Research on Instructional Change in Postsecondary Education (CRICPE), which has a portfolio of projects totaling over $7 million Her research centers on organizational change in higher education, support of innovation in teaching and learning, faculty learning communities, and faculty development as a change lever. She is a co-author of Creating the Future of Faculty Development: Learning from the Past, Understanding the Present (Sorcinelli, Austin, Eddy & Beach, 2006), and is lead author on a 10-year follow-up to that work, Faculty Development in the Age of Evidence: Current Practices, Future Imperatives (Beach, Sorcinelli, Austin & Rivard, 2016). She is currently co-PI of the Accelerating Systemic Change Network (ASCN), a national network of change agents and researcher funded by the NSF.
Michelle Hunt Bruner
Managing Director
Michigan Ross Center for Positive Organizations
Michelle Hunt Bruner is the Managing Director of the Michigan Ross Center for Positive Organizations. She has dedicated over 25 years of professional service to the higher education community, including 22 years in areas of student success. In her current role, Michelle brings students, scholars, business leaders and other individuals together to learn and amplify practices that build and sustain organizations that embody the science of thriving and where meaning, purpose, and the well-being of people are prioritized alongside business missions.
Prior to joining the University of Michigan, Michelle served as Senior Director of Student Academic Success at Wayne State University, where she helped lead the university in making significant gains in graduation rates. An advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, Michelle helped Wayne State’s first-generation students, Black students and other underrepresented students achieve greater academic success and ensured academic access and inclusion for students with disabilities across the campus.
Michelle earned her M.A. in Psychology from Wayne State University and a B.A. in Psychology with honors from Michigan State University. She is an Executive Board Member of the Michigan chapter of the American Council on Education (MI ACE) Women’s Network and a member of the MI ACE Senior-Level Leadership Shadow Program planning committee.
Michelle enjoys game nights, good books, and time with her family and friends.
Dr. Malia Roberts
Senior Director of Graduate College Enrollment
Western Michigan University Graduate College
Dr. Malia Roberts serves as the director of graduate enrollment in the Western Michigan University Graduate College. She coordinates and supports efforts related to communication, enrollment, marketing, and event planning. In addition to her role in the WMU Graduate College, Dr. Roberts teaches undergraduate leadership classes for the WMU Merze Tate College and WMU Lee Honors College. Dr. Roberts' research interests include leadership identity development and formal mentorships that support aspiring women leaders.
Nancy Giardina
Professor Emerita of Movement Science
Past Vice Provost for Student Success
Division of Academic Affairs
Grand Valley State University
Nancy Giardina is currently Professor Emerita of Movement Science and past Vice Provost for Student Success at Grand Valley State University. She is a current Emerita Board Member of the Michigan ACE Network for Women in Higher Education, past Co-chair of the Senior Level Leadership Development Job Shadow Committee and a past Member of the MI ACE Professional Development Committee. Dr. Giardina was an ACE Fellow in 2009-2010, the most prestigious leadership development program in higher education. Dr. Giardina holds a Doctor of Education Degree from Teachers College, Columbia University in Curriculum and Instruction, a Master of Arts Degree from Montclair State University and a Bachelor of Science Degree from The University of Rhode Island.
Dr. Reva Curry
Vice President of Instruction and Learning Services
Delta College
Dr. Reva Curry has been Vice President of Instruction and Learning Services at Delta College, Bay City Mi for the past eleven years. She oversees five academic divisions and learning support services to help create a student-centered learning environment to meet students’ needs.
She is passionate for students’ access, retention, and completion. Some of Dr. Curry’s work at Delta includes creating and supporting the Open Educational Resources Committee, which over the past 8 years, has saved students almost over $3.5 million in textbook costs.
She is the administrative lead, working with Delta faculty, in participating in a year-long American Association of Colleges and Universities Institute for “AI, Pedagogy and The Curriculum”, The team’s goals are to work with faculty to develop an AI usage policy that is flexible enough to meet faculty’s classroom needs, identify the academic and workplace AI skills Delta graduates will need to be successful in their occupation and transfer institution, and the identify and implement professional development to meet faculty and staff needs.
Dr. Curry is State Chair Elect for the MI American Council in Education Women’s Network and works with the MI A.C.E. Board of Directors to provide support and professional development for women in a network of over 30 colleges and universities across the State.
Dr. Steve Robinson
President
Lansing Community College
Steve Robinson began his community college career teaching freshman composition at Lansing Community College in 1993 as a faculty intern. 27 years later, he became the college’s seventh president. His higher education career has spanned every aspect of teaching, administration, planning, management and organizational operations. Prior to being named president in a national search in July of 2020, he previously served as president at Owens Community College in Toledo, Ohio. During his tenure, he led the college through a serious financial crisis, placing that institution on sound fiscal footing. Before joining Owens, Robinson served as Executive Dean of Planning and Research at Mott Community College in Flint, Michigan.
Robinson first moved to the Lansing area at age 18 to attend Michigan State University, where he earned Ph.D., M.A. and B.A. degrees in English. His master’s degree is specifically in English Community College Teaching. Prior to becoming an administrator, he spent fifteen years as a full-time community college faculty member, ten years as President of the faculty union, and six years as a Board Member of the Michigan Education Association (MEA) in Lansing. Before launching his community college career, Robinson worked for a number of Lansing organizations, including WKAR and Elderly Instruments. While a student at Michigan State, he hosted a weekly program he created on WDBM 89FM dedicated to African music, culture and news. An amateur musician, Robinson played in a number of Lansing-area bands and continues to sit in on bass guitar with local musicians.
At four-year institutions, he served as a member of the graduate faculty in English at the University of Michigan-Flint. He also served as a chair and faculty advisor in the Doctorate in Community College Leadership (DCCL) program at Ferris State University, as well as the Doctoral Program in Higher Education at the University of Toledo. He currently serves on the advisory board of the Community College Policy and Administration doctoral program at University of Maryland Global Campus.
After earning his Ph.D., Robinson pursued post-doctoral training in college administration and student success. He is a graduate of the Chair Academy for Leadership and Development, the Harvard Management Development Program (MDP), as well as the Aspen Presidential Fellowship for Community College Excellence. Through his association with the Aspen Institute, he has served as a site evaluator for the prestigious $1M Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. Additionally, he often serves as an instructor/facilitator of Aspen’s Community College Excellence training in both Ohio and Michigan, including the Student Success and Strategic Finance modules for community college leaders.
His writing has appeared in publications such as Forbes, The Atlantic, Diverse Issues, Inside Higher Education, ACCT Trustee Quarterly and Community College Daily. He is a member of the invitation-only Global Community College Leadership Network, the advocacy network Education for All, and serves on the Editorial Board of Community College Review. Locally, he serves on the boards of the Michigan Community College Association (MCCA), Mid-Michigan Red Cross, the Lansing Symphony Orchestra, and the Lansing Area Economic Partnership (LEAP).
Robinson is the creator of the national #EndCCStigma social media campaign and host of the End Community College Stigma Podcast. He has a background in audio production and radio and hosts two local podcasts on LCC Connect and WLNZ: Alumni Stories and Teachable Moment. A passionate advocate for students, he is also the creator and co-sponsor of the LCC Vinyl Record club, an active and inclusive registered student organization at LCC.
Dr. Seleana Samuel
MI-ACE Network Executive Board Member, Active
Senior Vice President of Business Operations
Lansing Community College
Dr. Seleana Samuel serves as Lansing Community College’s senior vice president of Business Operations, overseeing the college’s Information Technology Services, Administrative Services, Human Resources, Marketing, Public Relations, Purchasing, Compliance, and Risk Management and Legal Services. She has also taken a leading role in the development of the college’s Strategic Plan and Campus Master Plan.
She previously served as LCC’s purchasing director, and her contributions to higher education also extend to the classroom. From 2018 through 2020, she was a teaching fellow with Ferris State University’s doctorate in community college leadership program. In addition, Samuel was an elected board member for the National Procurement Institute from 2019-2021, a past president of the Michigan Public Purchasing Association, and a member of the 2023-2024 class of the Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship. Currently, Dr. Samuel serves on the Executive Board of Directors for the MI-ACE Women’s Network.
Dr. Samuel completed her undergraduate degree at Michigan State University through the Eli Broad College of Business and has graduate degrees from both Spring Arbor University and Ferris State University.
Dr. Marlene Kowalski-Braun
Associate Vice President and Deputy Inclusion and Equity Officer
Grand Valley State University
Dr. Marlene Kowalski-Braun is Associate Vice President and Deputy Inclusion and Equity Officer at Grand Valley State University. As a purposeful, passionate, and outcome-driven leader, she aims to create spaces that allow personal, organizational, and systems work to be realized. Marlene believes in emancipatory education that is lifelong, radically inclusive, skill-building, and highly engaging. She is always excited and humbled to share her experience and educational insights, which are shaped by 31 years in higher education and community and civic engagement work. Marlene is an intrapreneur and has recently created the Inclusion and Equity Institute along with an amazing team. She has received professional honors including the Grand Valley State University Maxine Swanson Women’s Leadership, Commitment to Diversity, the Presidential Leadership and the TRIO Dedication to First Generation College Students awards, the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) Outstanding Mid-Level Professional and she has an award named after her through the NASPA IV-East called the Marlene Kowalski-Braun Service to Women in Student Affairs award. Marlene is deeply committed to women in leadership!
Emmanual Guillory
Senior Director, Government Relations
American Council on Education (ACE)
Emmanual A. Guillory is an advocate, policy expert, and motivational speaker who currently serves as the senior director of government relations at the American Council on Education (ACE). In this role, he manages an extensive portfolio of legislative and regulatory issues as a primary government relations resource for the broader higher education community to the United States Congress, the White House, the United States Department of Education, and other agencies as warranted. His portfolio includes a primary emphasis on the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act (HEA), especially Title IV programs, and the budget and appropriations process. Other issues within his portfolio include accreditation, college costs, student aid, institutional accountability, institutional aid in Titles III and V of the HEA, oversight, privacy, technology, accessibility, and disability, among others.
Previously, Guillory served as the director of student and institutional aid policy at the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, leading the private, nonprofit sector of higher education on policies such as student financial aid, institutional aid programs in Titles III and V of the HEA, and certain regulatory issues. Guillory also served as the director for public policy and government affairs at UNCF (United Negro College Fund, Inc.) for two years. He worked for a decade in the House of Representatives, most recently as a professional staff member on the Committee on Education and the Workforce. He was recognized as one of The Hill’s top lobbyists in Washington, DC in both 2020 and 2021 and as a top executive by Marquis Who’s Who. Guillory was a federal negotiator for the Department of Education in 2019 and 2022 and a former president of the Committee for Education Funding—the largest educational coalition in our country—in 2022. He has his own nonprofit organization through which he awards scholarships to students, and he serves as a lecturer with the Archer Fellowship Program in The University of Texas System.
Guillory earned his bachelor of science in psychology from Texas A&M University, and he also serves on its leadership council through The Association of Former Students of Texas A&M University. He obtained his master of arts in college student personnel from Bowling Green State University (BGSU). He serves on BGSU’s Alumni Board of Directors and on the leadership council in its College of Education and Human Development. He is currently pursuing his doctorate of education in higher education management at the University of Pennsylvania.
KyLee Carter
Equity Coordinator, Office of Empowerment, Martin Luther King, Jr. Equity Center
Lansing Community College
KyLee Carter serves as the Equity Coordinator in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Equity Center through the Office of Empowerment at Lansing Community College (LCC). A proud LCC alumna, she holds an Associate’s degree in Communications and is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Professional Communication at Siena Heights University. KyLee is passionate about fostering access, representation, and belonging within higher education. She was nominated for the Aurora Diversity Award in her first year at LCC and recently received the Difference Maker Award for her impactful work in the Technical Careers Division. KyLee is the creator of Shades of Strength at LCC, a program designed to uplift and empower women through storytelling, connection, and celebration. Her prior experience includes serving as Executive Assistant to Dean Shon'ta Dwyer in Technical Careers at LCC and working as an Administrative Assistant for the State of Michigan's Tax Tribunal, supporting judges, attorneys, and legal staff. KyLee brings creativity, compassion, and a deep commitment to student, faculty, and staff success to everything she does.
Kristen Buttigieg
Director of Institutional Effectiveness
Lansing Community College
Kristen Buttigieg serves as Director of Institutional Effectiveness at Lansing Community College. With more than two decades of experience in institutional research and effectiveness, she centers her work on advancing data-informed decision making, strengthening institutional performance, and improving student outcomes.
She holds a Master of Science in Applied Psychology from the University of Baltimore and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Binghamton University.
Kristen Evans
Senior Human Resources Generalist
Grand Valley State University
Kristen Evans is an educator with a passion for aligning people and process. As a Senior Human Resources Generalist on Grand Valley State University’s Human Resources Strategic Business Partner team, Evans provides trusted consult on talent acquisition, performance management, employee relations, and organizational effectiveness.
Evans has served as the Chair and Co-Chair of the GVSU Women’s Commission and as an Institutional Representative and member of the Executive Board of the MI-ACE Women’s Network.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Western Michigan University and a Master of Arts in Adult & Higher Education from Grand Valley State University. A Student Affairs and HR professional, Evans started at GVSU after post-graduate work in Housing & Residence Life at the University of Delaware and Baker College of Owosso.
Evans' all-girls Catholic education – paired with the impact of many mentors, aunts, and cousins – inspires her to lean into leadership and advocacy opportunities on behalf of women. Her current passion projects include restorative-based conflict prevention and mediation. Outside of work, Evans enjoys theater, reading, and finding joy in the everyday with her husband and three children.
Megan Garrett
Controller
Lansing Community College
Megan Garrett is the Controller at Lansing Community College, bringing more than 35 years of experience in finance and accounting, most of that in leadership and administrative roles. She has spent more than half of her career working in higher education and governmental accounting, building expertise in governmental and fund accounting, audit coordination, financial procedure development, and strengthening internal control environments within complex organizations.
In her current position, Garrett oversees accounting, grants accounting, accounts payable, payroll, and student finance within the Financial Services Division, and is responsible for the college’s financial reporting. In 2009, she was part of the team that led LCC to be the first higher education institution in Michigan to submit an Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) to the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), and be awarded their Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in financial reporting. The college has continued to receive this annual award for the past 16 years.
Throughout her career, Garrett had been dedicated to ensuring transparency, accountability, and integrity in her leadership. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Economics/Finance from the University of Pittsburgh.
Ashleigh Hardy
Director of Student Engagement at the Alumni Association
University of Michigan
Ashleigh Hardy is the Director of Student Engagement at the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan, where she leads student programming, scholarship initiatives, and new graduate engagement. In this role, she partners across campus and with alumni leaders to design inclusive, high-impact experiences that help students and new alumni build belonging, purpose, and lasting connection to the Michigan community. Her portfolio includes signature engagement programs, leadership development opportunities, and strategies that strengthen the student-to-alumni transition.
A Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Michigan, Hardy brings a people-first approach to leadership grounded in accountability, genuineness, and empathy. She is committed to creating spaces where individuals feel supported to stretch, learn, and lead with confidence.
Over the past 15+ years in higher education, Hardy has held multiple roles at the University of Michigan, spanning student engagement, career and employer programming, and community-building efforts. Across these positions, she has focused on strengthening pathways that help students thrive during their time on campus and as they transition into life after graduation.
Hardy holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Michigan and a master’s degree in Counseling from Oakland University. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and remains deeply invested in service, mentorship, and expanding opportunities for women. Outside of work, she enjoys playing tennis and golf with her husband, and is the proud mother of four children who keep her grounded in the everyday practice of flexibility, humor, and leadership.
Dr. Kimberly Lowry
Vice President and Executive Director
Texas Association of Community Colleges
Kimberly M. Lowry is the vice president and executive director at the Texas Association of Community Colleges, where she leads statewide strategies to advance student success, equity, and economic mobility. In this role, she directs the Texas Success Center, which advances student success by supporting all 50 Texas community college districts in developing policies and programs to strengthen college-to-workforce pathways for underserved students. Kimberly helped implement House Bill 8, transitioning over 50 community colleges to performance-based funding for improved student outcomes. As the former director of leadership and impact at the Aspen Institute, Kimberly led the Rising Presidents Fellowship, contributing to 99 fellows advancing to college presidencies, changing the leadership landscape in higher education.
Dr. Sonja Howell
Instructional Designer and Developer
Jackson College
Sonja Howell, PhD, is an instructional designer, qualitative researcher, author, and speaker whose work centers on emotional intelligence, communication, and transformative learning. She is the author of “Feel It: Wake Up from the Lull, Reclaim Your Power, and Come Back to Life” and the creator of the Feel It Framework, a practical method for communicating with clarity under pressure.
Dr. Howell is an instructional designer and developer at Jackson College and co-chair of the Professional Network, also known as Women of JC. She has presented to local, state, and national audiences, including the Women in Technology of Jackson. She is a recipient of the 2025-2026 League Innovation Excellence Award. Her work bridges emotional presence, leadership development, and instructional design through a trauma-informed, human-centered approach.
Dr. Howell is also a TEDx organizer and frequently facilitates workshops that help women lead, communicate, and navigate complexity with confidence and steadiness.
Catreese Qualls
Marketing & Outreach Coordinator
Schoolcraft College
Catreese Qualls is a master storyteller and the Marketing & Outreach Coordinator at Schoolcraft College, bringing more than two decades of expertise to the forefront of communication arts. A celebrated leader, she is a 2025 Career Mastered National IMPACT 50 Award recipient and was recently named a 2026 DEIB Changemaker by the Livonia Westland Chamber of Commerce. Her profound dedication to the community earned her a Congressional Record Award. She also serves as CEO of Lotus & Sage Consulting and Chief of Communication for SABERN Group LLC, empowering individuals to amplify their brands through a voice that resonates and transforms.
Qualls extends her influence into systemic reform as the Co-Director of The Change Up Midnight Coalition, a grassroots organization fighting systemic injustice through civic engagement and voter education. She further serves on the board of Arab Women United, collaborating with leaders to shape policies and legislative reform.
A proud Wayne State Warrior and Holistic Life Coach, she blends sociology with storytelling to help others find their own unique frequency. Whether she is advocating for regulation reform or sipping a fine roast as a coffee connoisseur, Qualls is a force of nature dedicated to the art of the "ElevatED" life.
Marissa Taylor
University of Michigan Center for Educational Outreach
Marissa Taylor champions the University of Michigan Center for Educational Outreach (CEO) brand and strategy statewide. With expertise in data analysis, marketing, and design thinking, she infuses the CEO team and campus community with innovative, engaging ideas that promote college access and success.
As a proud Latinx-Italian college graduate, Taylor brings a wealth of personal experience to her role, advocating for first-generation students and women in STEM and IT. Her journey from a first-gen student to a female Latinx STEM professional is a testament to her resilience and passion for education.
Taylor holds a Bachelor of Arts in Rhetoric Communication and English-Creative Writing from Wheaton College, Ill., and a Master of Science in Information (Library Science and Design Thinking) from the University of Michigan School of Information. Currently, she is pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology at Michigan State University, where she studies motivation science, artificial intelligence, and self-regulated learning. Taylor's story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a relentless commitment to empowering others through education.
Deb Thompson
Senior Director of Labor and Employee Relations
Grand Valley State University
With more than two decades of experience in Human Resources in higher education, Deb Thompson has built a career at the intersection of people, strategy, and courageous conversations. Since 1999, she has worked in HR roles and now serves as the Senior Director of Labor and Employee Relations at Grand Valley State University, where she partners with all union groups and serves as Chief Negotiator in collective bargaining. While Thompson received her graduate degree in Human Resource Development from Western Michigan University, she is an MSU Spartan at heart, as that is where she attended undergraduate school.
Thompson's professional passion lies in using dispute resolution techniques to move conflict toward respect, clarity, and productivity. She is also drawn to coaching from the Pondera Leadership Model as a practical framework for helping leaders understand their natural patterns and show up more intentionally and with self-awareness.
In her career, Thompson is most proud of leading the integration of GVSU's HR Business Partner model, bringing a customer-centered approach to serving the Grand Valley community. Outside of work, you’ll find Thompson on the golf course, on or near water, with family traveling somewhere new, or happily spoiling her dogs – who admittedly enjoy a lifestyle many would envy.
Kierra Trotter
Director of Alumni Career and Lifelong Learning
Alumni Association of the University of Michigan
Kierra Trotter is a dedicated leader in higher education, with 20 years of experience spanning student life, academic advising, career services, and alumni engagement at The Ohio State University and the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. As Director of Alumni Career and Lifelong Learning for the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan, Trotter works to strengthen alumni belonging, lifelong learning, and career development opportunities. Her expertise bridges operations, communications, and strategic leadership, driving organizational growth and supporting evolving career landscapes. Trotter is passionate about leadership development, organizational strategy, and career coaching, empowering individuals and teams to thrive.
Danielle Beckford
Program Specialist for the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education
Wayne State University
Danielle Beckford serves as the Program Specialist for the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education at Wayne State University, where she supports students through strategic program planning, advocacy, and relationship-building. She has served as a Commissioner and Social Justice Chair for the President’s Commission on the Status of Women and is an active member of Wayne Women Lead. She is a graduate of University of Michigan, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and Psychology.
Danielle will graduate in May 2026 with a Master of Social Work degree and aspires to become a therapist and community practitioner who helps individuals recognize that what they need to heal, they already have inside. She is committed to creating pathways to resources for marginalized and underserved communities through community-based work rooted in equity and access. A sought-after facilitator within the Wayne State community, she leads workshops for campus departments and has presented at the Women of Color Summit at WSU for two consecutive years. She also serves as a Lead Facilitator at SASHA Center, supporting women who have experienced gender-based violence and trauma through healing-centered groups. Beyond her professional work, she cultivates an intentional life with her husband and two children, centered on growth, presence, joy, balance, and shared experiences, while bringing creativity to everything she does.
Dr. Jessica Van-Slooten
Dean of Arts and Sciences
Bay College
From her beginnings on a family blueberry farm to her current role as Dean of Arts and Sciences at Bay College, Dr. Van Slooten has prioritized learning and connection. A first-generation college student and native of West Michigan, she earned degrees in English from Alma College (BA), Michigan State University (MA), and Auburn University (Ph.D). She taught first-year writing, literature, and women’s/gender studies courses at several institutions, including for 14 years at the University of Wisconsin-Manitowoc/University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.
As a higher education leader, Dr. Van Slooten continuously seeks and enacts better ways to live and learn in community. She uses her top strengths – learner, empathy, intellection, connectedness, and developer – to help others achieve their goals in a humane, inclusive, and resilient community.
Dr. Liz Doxtader
Student Judicial Officer
Jackson College
Currently serving as a Student Judicial Officer, Dr. Liz Doxtader works with students to navigate conflict, accountability, and community standards through fair and educational processes. This role emphasizes the development of communication skills, self-awareness, and constructive approaches to resolving disagreements.
Dr. Doxtader holds a Doctorate in Management with a focus on leadership, organizational behavior, and effective decision-making. Additional professional preparation includes specialized conflict resolution training through eCornell, with emphasis on mediation and collaborative problem-solving. Dr. Doxtader’s professional experience has demonstrated that well-managed conflict can lead to growth, clarity, and stronger relationships.
Dr. Szymon Machajewski
Associate Director of Academic Technology and Learning Innovation
University of Illinois Chicago
Faculty Fellow for Teaching with AI
Lansing Community College
Dr. Szymon Machajewski is an educator, artificial intelligence strategist, and national advocate for human-centered technology in higher education. He serves as Associate Director of Academic Technology and Learning Innovation at the University of Illinois Chicago and as a Faculty Fellow for Teaching with AI at Lansing Community College.
With more than two decades of experience across community colleges and universities, Dr. Machajewski has dedicated his career to ensuring technology expands access and amplifies human capability rather than replacing it. His award-winning work includes the Amazon AI Hackathon, where his team of students built a tool that detects emotional distress in student writing, and the Most Inclusive Classroom Award, reflecting his commitment to equitable learning environments.
He is the author of “The Learn-It-All Educator: A Guidebook for Training Brains, Not Replacing Them” (2026), published in collaboration with Lansing Community College's Center for Teaching Excellence. His writing brings that same equity lens to the national conversation on AI in education. He has authored book chapters, peer-reviewed articles, and practitioner publications. He is a certified Mental Health First Aid practitioner.
Jennifer Puplava
Attorney
Mika Meyers
Jennifer Puplava is a technology and intellectual property attorney who advises higher education institutions, municipalities, and organizations on managing legal risk in an increasingly complex regulatory environment. Her practice focuses on privacy, data security, compliance obligations, and governance issues that directly affect leaders and operations. Puplava regularly works with clients to develop and implement clear policies, navigate reporting and compliance requirements, negotiate and manage contracts, and respond to data security incidents and other risk events.
Dr. Kathleen Ignatoski
Biosafety Quality Assurance Specialist in UMOR
University of Michigan
I obtained my BS in Biology from Penn State, my Masters in Viral Oncology from Villanova University, and my PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology from Penn State College of Medicine. I have been everything from a postdoc to a lab manager to a PI to a compliance specialist in a variety of departments in over 31 years at the University of Michigan. Currently, I am a Biosafety Quality Assurance Specialist in UMOR. I am also the research lead for the University of Michigan Neurodiversity Project, a volunteer position at UM.
Sandy Zalmout
Business Development Director at ICPSR
University of Michigan
Sandy Zalmout, is the Business Development Director at ICPSR (Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research at the Institute for Social Research (ISR). While Sandy’s primary role focuses cultivating and growing institutional relationships, she is also recognized as a leader in the disability inclusion and accessibility space. She has been a driving force in launching the Beautiful Minds Conference in 2024, and most recently, she has been invited to serve on the Higher Education Neurodiversity Network, and leads the University of Michigan Neurodiversity Project. She also serves as the Vice President for the Women of Color Task Force and is active on a number of Advisory Committees that focus on accessibility and disability support for staff, cultural relations and creating environments for opportunity and growth for all communities.
Sandy is an alum of the University of Miami and University of Michigan, and has been at the University of Michigan for nearly 20 years in a variety of capacities - graduate student, clinical researcher, simulationist and business professional. She has a transdisciplinary background in engineering, business, public health, kinesiology, and technology. This diverse background, combined with her expertise in cultural relations, have enabled her to grow in multiple industries and opened many career opportunities in the US and abroad.
Her professional career began overseas as a cultural advisor in the United Arab Emirates; a role that enabled her to develop a unique perspective that focused on the nuances and sensitives of culture to promote transformation. Throughout her career she has worked on a number of humanitarian projects that focused on resettling migrant communities in South Florida and providing community support, introducing health and wellness fairs for war refugees, and served on the Board of Directors for the Ann Arbor YMCA where her efforts focused on Diversity, Inclusion and Global efforts. Sandy has also served as a FIRST Robotics coach where her efforts focused on bridging equitable opportunities for children with disabilities.
Questions or Feedback?
Conference inquiries can be sent to mi-ace-2025-2026@star.lcc.edu.