Aimee Argel

Aimee Argel’s nonprofit organizational development experience spans over 19 years. During her professional career, Aimee has successful raised over $50 million in individual, foundation and corporate major gifts since 2000. She is a graduate of Michigan State University (Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies) and Wayne State University (Master of Public Administration). Her current position is Senior Director, Individual Giving for Michigan State University. In this position she works with donors and alums in areas such as Women & Philanthropy, MSU Parents and Family and managing their fundraising development talent program. She has worked at several major institutions throughout southeast Michigan, notable Henry Ford Health System, University of Michigan Health System, Michigan Opera Theatre, Community Foundation for SE Michigan, DEX Design Innovations and a variety of other nonprofits in the region.

She is the immediate Past-President for the Junior League of Detroit and part-time faculty at Oakland University, College of Arts and Sciences in the Masters of Public Administration and the Nonprofit Management Certificate programs. She was also part-time faculty at Wayne State University for over 9 years, teaching in their Nonprofit Sectors Program. She has served on a variety of nonprofit boards, fundraising association boards and has consulted in helping nonprofits with their strategic and fund development plans.

Andrea Zuehlk

Andrea joined Glorious Cannabis as the VP of Marketing in November 2020, drawn by the excitement of a fast-paced start-up, a high-growth industry, and the ability to lead branding efforts. Prior to Glorious, Andrea worked in both auto and CPG. At Ford, she led digital content creation; at Lincoln, she led media planning, brand strategy and experiential marketing. During her hiatus from Ford, Andrea was a brand manager on iconic brands such as Procter & Gamble’s Pampers and SC Johnson’s Glade and Ziploc.

Anna Baeten

Anna Baeten currently serves as the COO & Managing Director of Ktisis Capital, a progressive justice-focused philanthropic consultancy. She comes to this position with an extensive background in entrepreneurship, small-business scaling, management training & development, systems architecture, and branding & marketing. As COO & Managing Director at Ktisis she oversees systems & operation management, new business development, and the creation and implementation of new client services and products.

Anqunette Sarfoh

Anqunette “Q” Sarfoh spent 20 years as a TV journalist and news anchor in Indiana, Las Vegas, Boston and Detroit.  After 8 years as the morning anchor for Fox 2 Detroit, Anqunette retired due to the effects of Multiple Sclerosis. Through changes in diet and using cannabis, Anqunette went from taking nine medications a day to taking none and is an advocate for teaching others how to lessen their dependency on pharmaceuticals.  She’s the founder of Qulture, which is a line of CBD and cannabis infused products to address the needs of non-smokers. Anqunette is a member of the Board of Directors of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association, volunteers with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and League of Women Voters and often speaks to community and support groups about the safe and appropriate use of cannabis.

Antonella Grimaldi

An automotive technology leader with over 20 years of experience in positions of global responsibility. Strengths and expertise are in semiconductor process engineering, supplier quality engineering, project management, account management and business development.  Development of business strategies with annual targets exceeded while forging long-term alliances, both within the organization and at customers. Managed supply chain crises and developed and executed growth strategies at top global automotive corporations. Effective at cross functional communication, leadership, team work and delivering results.  Antonella currently is a Sales Manager for Key Accounts at LeddarTech, Inc., an innovative LiDAR company that offers robust solid state 3D LiDAR and a full end-to-end SW Perception Platform (leddartech.com).  Antonella also serves as a strategic advisor for biomedical and electrification start-ups. 

Antonella earned her BSE in Chemical Engineering at Wayne State University and her MSE in Industrial Engineering and MBA from University of Michigan. 

Antonella serves on the Board of Directors at Automotive Women Alliance Foundation (awafoundation.org), and Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) of Wayne State University – College of Chemical Engineering.

Aurora Battaglia

Ms. Battaglia is Senior Vice President and Head of European Corporates and Financial Institutions for Comerica Bank. With 24 years of corporate banking experience, she advises multinational companies on strategic and financing initiatives in North America, including structuring of debt and cash management solutions, and facilitating strategic alliances for companies seeking to invest in the US.

In this position and with offices in Michigan, Texas and California, she is responsible for managing a team of multilingual/multicultural corporate bankers focusing on business development, portfolio and risk management, and credit underwriting in relation to European companies with subsidiaries in North America.

Ms. Battaglia lived in Italy until 1987 and currently resides in Michigan. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in political science and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Michigan. Ms. Battaglia has been an active member in boards and professional and community organizations, including the United Way, the British American Business Council, the German American Business Council, and the Detroit Regional Partnership.

In 2018 she was awarded a Knighthood (Order of the Star of Italy) by the Italian Government for her contributions over the years as a key advocate and facilitator of business links between US and Italian enterprises, promoting bilateral trade, and building and growing connections between the two countries.

In 2020 she was named among Crain’s Notable Women in Finance.

Bridget G. Hurd

With more than 25 years of progressive experience in communications, community relations, corporate social responsibility, and diversity and inclusion, Bridget Hurd has worked in the health care industry helping to facilitate stronger linkages among the community and health care institutions, addressing health inequities and fostering a culture of inclusion in the health care community and among employees.

Ms. Hurd is the vice president, Inclusion and Diversity, and Chief Diversity Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan where she is responsible for leading and executing the corporate inclusion and diversity strategy and shaping a BCBSM culture of inclusion that emphasizes the recognition, understanding, and acceptance of the differences and similarities in people and that is culturally competent in providing services to its members and customers. She also leads the Office of Health and Health Disparities which focuses on achieving health equity in the delivery of and access to care. Ms. Hurd facilitates the Diversity Leadership Council and oversees diversity and cultural competency learning opportunities for employees, 10 employee resource networks and cultivating strong stakeholder relationships and partnerships in diverse and ethnic communities. She currently represents Blue Cross on the Michigan Coronavirus Task Force on Racial Disparities, appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in April 2020. She is a recipient of the DentaQuest 2020 Health Equity Heroes award which recognizes individuals working to achieve equity during this time of coronavirus.

Prior to that, Ms. Hurd was the director of Community Responsibility at BCBSM. In this role, she developed and led strategic community partnerships to encourage healthy, active lifestyles at every age and advanced the Blues brand in local communities. She oversaw corporate giving, stakeholder relationships, the employee and executive volunteer programs, and corporate internal and special events.

A community steward serving on numerous advisory committees and boards in the Metropolitan Detroit community, Ms. Hurd is a board member of LAHC – Leaders Advancing and Helping Communities, the Michigan Diversity Council and an advisory board member of the Council of Asian Pacific Americans. She is also a member of the President’s National Advisory Council for Henry Ford College and the President’s Community Advisory Group for Wayne State University. Ms. Hurd is a former board member of One Detroit Credit Union that focuses on providing access to financial resources to underserved communities, Special Olympics of Michigan, the Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the Southfield Community Foundation.

She is a graduate of Wayne State University where she obtained a Master of Business Administration degree and the University of Michigan where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications. She is a Certified Diversity Professional, a certified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory and has a certificate for Corporate Citizenship Leadership from the Boston College Carroll School of Management Center for Corporate Citizenship and is a graduate of Leadership Detroit XXXI. Hurd also participated in the Disparities Leadership Program of the Disparities Solution Center at Boston Massachusetts General Hospital.

Carol Zuniga

Carol Zuniga has more than three decades of experience in the healthcare industry and is recognized for delivering the highest level of behavioral health services to residents of metropolitan Detroit.

Ms. Zuniga graduated from Radford University (Radford, VA), with a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology; and from Macalester College (St. Paul, MN), where she received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Carol is a native of the Detroit area, completing high school at University Liggett in Grosse Pointe. Carol has held Limited Licensed Psychologist (LLP) credentials in the State of Michigan since 1987.

Recruited by Hegira Health in 1993, Carol has risen to a leadership role building a top-performing management team that focuses on patient centered care and community services, while pushing continuous expansion for Hegira. Among her most notable accomplishments, Carol spearheaded the development of Hegira’s Children’s Specialty Services Division, as well as designing and contracting for Wayne County’s current adult psychiatric crisis service, known as COPE, and leading her team in 2020 to attain $4.8M in federal grant awards, including a much coveted CCBHC Expansion Grant.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Carol led Hegira’s Executive and Management teams to successfully continue essential 24-hour person-to-person healthcare services while transitioning 200 additional staff to telehealth capabilities, coordinating training, compliance, safety, employee regulations and IT. Carol was selected by her peers, representing two large local behavioral healthcare organizations, as a panel member of four reporting on COVID-19 healthcare issues in Wayne County to local, state and national decision makers. Several Local media outlets regularly calls upon to comment on behavioral health related administrative, clinical and financial issues.

Under her leadership, Hegira has filled numerous important service gaps in the community, while growing to a staff of 500, with revenues now reaching $30 million. Selected as one of Crain’s “Notable Women in Healthcare” in April 2020, Carol is a leader within the behavioral health industry, as well as in Southeastern Michigan, routinely incorporating trend-setting high outcome-based programs into the strategic planning of Hegira and the other organizations she works with in the community.

Debra Dansby

Debra Dansby, C.P.A., Vice President of Marketing, Farm Bureau Insurance of Michigan. Debra is the Vice President of Marketing at Farm Bureau Insurance of Michigan. She joined Farm Bureau with over 25 years of diversified professional experience, including 10 years within the property casualty insurance industry. Her experience includes hands-on executive-level leadership for small, medium and large companies in areas such as strategic planning & innovation, business diversification and growth, economic development, entrepreneurial business capitalization and deployment and operational execution. She has led several companies and teams through significant transformational efforts. Deb earned her Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Hillsdale College.

Dr. Nicole Wax

Hi, my name is Nicole Wax. I grew up in Fenton/Linden and after graduating from Linden High School, I spent the next 11 years obtaining my bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University, my Doctor of Dental Surgery from The Ohio State University, and my Orthodontic credentials at the University of Detroit Mercy. With not a single business, marketing, or management class under my belt, I decided to open up my orthodontic practice from scratch in my hometown. In 2014, I finished my residency and immediately opened the doors to Dr. Wax Orthodontics in Linden, MI. I started with myself and one staff member who happened to be my niece. Through excellent customer service, personalized care, and extreme attention to detail in both the services we offered and the various aspects of running a business, we grew at what has been called “an unheard-of growth rate”. When a business of any kind is growing, both the business owner and all the employees have to grow and shift with it. I have a huge passion for community and I love to share what has worked for me and what I have learned along the way to motivate and inspire others in their journey. I focus a lot on team building, leadership development, and goals.  Clarity in your goals and most importantly in the plan of how to achieve your goals is necessary for growth of your business. A team that is also focused and motivated to achieve the goals of the business is instrumental to reach your highest business potential.  

On a personal side, I have a beautiful 4m old baby girl, Everly, a 5 year old son, Oliver, and I am blessed by the love of the man by my side, Ryan and my two adorable pups Gypsy (the one eyed Beagle) and Aussie (the mini Aussie).

Dr. Saloni Sharma

Dr. Sharma leads clinical teams at both Provident Dentistry and Canton Park Dental. She is a highly experienced dentist who enjoys building lifelong relationships with her patients and staff. She practices all aspects of general and cosmetic dentistry, including implant restorations. During recent years, Dr. Sharma integrated sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment methods into the dental practice.

Dr. Sharma received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree (D.D.S.) from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 2000, and her Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree (B.D.S.) from Karnataka University in India in 1994. Dr. Sharma is a member of the American Dental Association, the Michigan Dental Association, and the Oakland County Dental Society.

Dr. Sharma was born in Perth, Scotland and received her early education in England and India. She lives in the Ann Arbor area with her family. Her interests include working out, eating healthy, making jewelry, and traveling with her family.

Elaine Redd

Elaine Redd is the chief communications officer for the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce. In this role she serves as the principal advisor providing communications counsel to the CEO and other members of executive leadership. In addition, she’s responsible for reputation management, drives communications strategy, message creation and alignment, and announcement strategies, sets goals and metrics for the Communications and Public Relations department, and manages a small staff.

Prior to joining the Chamber, Redd spent 12 years in leadership roles in corporate communications and PR roles at General Motors. She was a trusted advisor providing strategic communications counsel to senior executives on sensitive issues such as corporate restructurings, potential litigation, downsizing and plant closings. She also served as a company spokesperson and executive media trainer for key company initiatives including corporate announcements, organizational transformation, financial transactions, new product launches, customer service retention, and community relations.

Before joining General Motors, Redd was vice president of Corporate Communications at Comerica Incorporated and held several communications positions at United Way for Southeastern Michigan and the University of Michigan-Dearborn in the earlier years of her career.

Redd earned a B.A. degree in Communications from Wayne State University.

Elizabeth Murphy

Elizabeth Murphy has had a widely varied career beginning as an Industrial Engineer for General Motors in the late 1970’s. City government service followed as Deputy City Administrator for the City of Flint. Work in a consulting engineering firm and several years in the Marketing Department of a community college preceded her final position as COO for the 200-employee regional chamber of commerce.

Throughout her professional career Mrs. Murphy remained active in the Flint community. She has served for over 20 years on the Flint Institute of Arts Board of Trustees, twice as President. She is also a board member of a local hospital and serves on numerous other non-profits’ committees.

She is a graduate of General Motors Institute (now Kettering University) in Flint, Michigan where she earned both an MS in Manufacturing Management and a Bachelor of Industrial and System Engineering.

Ellen Patnaude

Ellen Patnaude has always been fascinated by how a person’s hard-wiring, life experiences, and unique perspective causes them to interact with the people around them. She is a Detroit native, and graduated from Alma College in 1995 with a BA in Biology & French. She thought she wanted to be Jacque Cousteau, but her first few science-based jobs pointed clearly towards working with people. She worked for several years as a community organizer in other midwestern states. Returning to Michigan in 2005, her reputation followed her for challenging people to see and be a better version of themselves, and the phone started ringing. Since then, Ellen has built an internationally recognized business facilitating group workshops and sessions for individuals interested in being challenged to create new roadmaps. Her clients are located around the globe. Based in Lapeer County, she and her team of facilitators also welcome groups to LeadQuine’s home base, Wicked Walnut Farm, for unconventional and unforgettable “get away” experiences. Ellen is an ICF credentialed Executive Coach, and certified in multiple assessment tools.

Enza Sleva

Enza is a People Leader with an amazing energy for inspiring individuals in bringing their best self.   In particular, she shares a great passion for mentoring and coaching women on their professional journey.  

She leads by creating authentic connections by listening, understanding and caring. Over the course of 30 years with Ford she dedicated herself to transforming groups of individuals into high performing teams by driving excellence which led to great business results.   

Enza has led teams across Marketing, Sales, Service and Customer Experience functions in US and Global.   She has strong customer experience, brand, sales and service operational expertise that transcend industries.  

Additionally, Enza recently retired from Ford and is defining her next chapter.  

Jackie Buchanan

Jackie Buchanan has been the President & CEO of Genisys Credit Union, located in Auburn Hills, MI since 2010.  Genisys, the fourth largest credit union in Michigan, is $3.5 billion in assets and has 32 branches in three states.  

Jackie is passionate about financial wellness and helping people succeed financially.  She serves on the Board of Trustees of Walsh College, and is a former Board of Regent of Baker College of Auburn Hills.   Jackie also serves on the Board of Trustees for the McLaren Oakland Health System Foundation and is a Board Member of the Lighthouse of Michigan, a non-profit that helps people move from crisis to sustainability.  She is also involved in numerous organizations within the financial industry. Prior to her appointment as CEO, Jackie held the positions of Accounting Manager, Chief Information Officer and Executive Vice President at Genisys Credit Union.   She holds a CPA license, has a Bachelor of Accountancy from Walsh College and a Masters in Information Technology from Lawrence Technological University.

Jeeva Nadarajah

Jeeva Nadarajah is a software engineer turned entrepreneur, right here in Saline, Michigan. She has 16 years of experience in agile software development. She was born in Sri Lanka, earned her bachelor’s in mathematics and computer science from India, and her Masters in Information Systems from Eastern Michigan University. She has since worked for multiple firms as a software engineer and launched her software consultancy, Serendip in 2019.  

Her passion is accelerating growth for her employees and clients by bringing learning and joy into the process of building software. Jeeva enjoys spending time with her family (husband Luke, 2 sons and 2 step-sons), learning, exercising, cooking, playing in the stock market and traveling to see the rest of her friends and family across the world.

Jenn Queen

Jenn Cornell Queen, Ann Arbor SPARK’s senior vice president of marketing, communications, and events, has more than 20 years experience in her field. Prior to joining SPARK’s marketing team, she was a marketing, communications, and PR consultant to not only SPARK, but also to a range of startups, non-profits, and established businesses, including the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, the United Dairy Industry of Michigan, the Detroit Lions, and the University of Michigan. In this role, she executed a range of strategic communications activities including planning, media relations, media training, and creating talking points for these organizations. Jenn also has extensive experience writing and editing marketing materials, articles, and annual reports. She co-founded Joust Strength + Fitness, a successful Ann Arbor-based CrossFit gym, in 2008. Jenn is vice chair of the board of directors at the Ecology Center, a national non-profit focused on healthy people and a health planet.

Jennifer Nelson

Jennifer Nelson has worked in the field of education for two decades and is currently a special education teacher at a Detroit-area high school. She has also been a small-business owner, stay-at-home mom of three children, and most recently a church planter (but don’t call her a pastor’s wife!).

In 2017, Jen and her husband co-founded Journey Church in Mt. Clemens, an endeavor that has taught her more about people than anything she has ever done. Along with her husband, Jen launched a local homeless ministry and serves members of their church and community through mentoring and counseling.  

Jen is excited to participate as a mentor in this year’s Mentoring Monday event. She is learning about the value of networking and is eagerly pursuing a career change. Personally, she is invested in staying married and raising children who will move out of her house before she is elderly. Aside from her faith, she values authenticity above all else and is hopeful that what she has learned along the way might be meaningful to others.

Karen Gray

Karen has 32 years of HR experience, and 26 years of leadership experience. Karen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Human Resources Management and a Master of Arts in Organizational Management. Karen currently works as the Vice-President of Human Resources for Matrix Human Services and is responsible for the management, development and oversight of the Human Resources, Payroll and Quality Departments. Karen has a passion for helping others succeed to meet goals and accomplishments beyond their dreams.

Kellie Treppa

Kellie is director of sales and business development for Thirdware Labs, advancing the implementation of emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, blockchain, vehicle connectivity and the Internet of Things.

Prior to joining Thirdware, Kellie managed global automotive accounts for ON Semiconductor focused on autonomous and electric vehicle applications. Prior to ON Semi, she was director of marketing and strategy for Ricardo – a global engineering, strategic and environmental consultancy focused on advanced automotive systems, sustainability, mobility and cybersecurity.

Kellie Treppa’s career spans 25 years in industrial and automotive markets with a diverse range of experience in chemicals, manufacturing, engineering and semiconductors, including strategy, business development, sales, marketing, technical service, product development and financial analysis for firms including Schuler, Merck, DuPont, Borden, Vickers and Sika International.

She serves on the board of the Automotive Women’s Alliance Foundation as President.

Kellie holds a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin, an MBA from the University of Detroit-Mercy and is a graduate of DuPont’s Sales Excellence Training and the Kellogg School of Managements executive series of The Customer Focused Organization.

Kelly Frick

Kelly Adrian Frick is the Senior Director of News at MLive Media Group, a digital and print media company with nine newsrooms across the state of Michigan. Kelly oversees nearly 60 reporters, photographers and editors who publish local and statewide news and information daily on mlive.com and in eight newspapers, including The Grand Rapids Press, The Ann Arbor News and The Flint Journal.

She started as a business reporter at The Bay City Times and worked her way through a variety of editing positions, eventually being named the first female editor- in-chief of that newspaper in 2009. When MLive Media Group formed in 2012, she became the first director of news for the company.

Kelly earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism at Michigan State University. She is passionate about developing the talents of journalists and producing investigative projects that spark positive change in the state.

Kim Ziomek

Kimberly (Kim) A. Ziomek, is an accomplished Business Development professional, Global Sales Manager, certified Mentor and Coach. Currently, Ms. Ziomek is a Consultant with both Kim Ziomek LLC and The Automotive/Mobility Collaboration Group to direct Corporate Business Development efforts within the Automotive/Mobility market segments.

Ms. Ziomek’s role is to work with industries like Automotive OEM’s and Tier’s to strategically collaborate for business growth and provide solutions. Ms. Ziomek is a driven industry leader with global experience in automotive and affiliated industries that engages leadership skills for business growth. Ms. Ziomek has dual ladder experience and is recognized as a highly productive, dependable and efficient customer relationship facilitator. In 2000, she was awarded one of Automotive News – Top 100 Leading Women in Automotive Industry Award.

She has a proven ability to consistently satisfy customer expectations, exceed company goals and engage C-Suite for ROI. Over 30 years of engagement in the automotive and affiliated industries have provided a host of significant C-suite contacts. These contacts and trusted advisor titles range from Engineering Manager to President & CEO at OEM’s.

Ms. Ziomek exhibits outstanding communication skills, seeks collaborative efforts with involving others and acts as a catalyst for strategic partnerships. As a result of her skill sets, professional industry contacts and experience, she is able to effectively work with other cultures while remaining focused to involve these professionals to collaborate for success.

Kimberly Gruber MA, LPC, NCC

Kimberly Gruber is the owner of Balance Life Counseling PLLC in Fenton, Michigan.  She holds a dual Masters degree in Community and School Counseling. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Nationally Certified (NCC). She also holds a School Counselor License and teaching certificate in the State of Michigan.

Kimberly has always loved helping others, especially children. Before starting Balance Life Counseling she was an educator and taught at the elementary level. Then she became a school counselor for several years working with children from preschool through high school.

After many years in education she decided to pursue her dream to open a private practice. Her goal was to help as many children and adults possible who struggle with mental health issues. It began as a solo practice but now has evolved to a group practice with several mental health practitioners.

Balance Life Counseling is an outpatient counseling facility that specializes in various areas of mental health including anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, grief, childhood issues and several others. They work with individuals, families, and groups in treating mental, behavioral and emotional problems and disorders.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her three daughters and husband. She also enjoys giving back to the community and for the last several years has served as Vice President of the local Board of Education.

Linda Vail

Linda Vail joined the Ingham County Health Department (ICHD) as their Health Officer in 2014. With nearly 400 employees and a $52 million budget, ICHD provides local health department functions, operates a network of community health centers with Federally Qualified Health Center status, and provides health care in the Ingham County Jail and Youth Center. Prior to joining ICHD, she served in local government for nearly 12 years in Kalamazoo County where she became the first female health officer, serving in that role for over seven years. Before her career in local county government began in 2002, Vail spent more than ten years with Pharmacia/The Upjohn Company as a biochemist/molecular biologist, and previously also held positions in the Biochemistry Department of Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, and the Microbiology Department at the University of Georgia. Linda has a Master’s in Public Administration with a public health concentration from Western Michigan University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, magna cum laude, from the University of Georgia.

Linda is a board member and past president for the Michigan Association for Local Public Health, served four years on the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) Health Equity and Social Justice Advisory Committee, and formerly served on the McLaren Greater Lansing Board of Trustees. She is a member of the State’s Medical Care Advisory Council (a mandated council to advise the state Medicaid Director), a board member of the Capital Area Health Alliance and also serves on a number of other local boards and committees. She holds faculty appointments in the Department of Family Medicine, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine and as well as the Department of Family and Community Medicine, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine.

Linda’s leadership has been a key component in organizing a multi-disciplinary task force to address the ongoing opioid epidemic that is sweeping our nation. She is frequently speaking to audiences, providing workshops, or involved with panel discussions in a variety of venues to raise awareness and discuss approaches for prevention and intervention of opioid abuse and overdose. During her tenure between Kalamazoo and Ingham Counties, Vail has provided leadership during emergent public health issues including the largest inland oil spill in history (Kalamazoo River) West Nile Virus, H1N1, Ebola and investigation of E. coli contaminated ground beef in conjunction with the CDC that led to a USDA recall nationwide. She led the Ingham County Health department investigation of a Norovirus outbreak at a local convention center and hotel where more than 450 were confirmed ill at events spanning at 5 day period. Currently, Vail is leading the Ingham County response to the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. Her prior experience in infectious diseases and epidemiology as well as having led the response to multiple public health crises over her tenure have been critical to the successful coordinated response, including her appointment to the Relaunch Greater Lansing Task Force, in Ingham County and the Greater Lansing Area.

Lisa J. Wicker, Ph.D.

Hi, I’m Dr. Lisa J. Lindsay Wicker, thought leader in Human Resources, change management, and career development. I connect people across the world, helping companies create value, and empower women to take control of their careers. As well as an award-winning, internationally recognized Human Resources and career strategist, I am the Founder and CEO of women’s leadership capacity company, Career Mastered, and Publisher of Career Mastered Magazine. I am also the founder of global human resources firm, Linwick & Associates, and host of the Career Mastered Virtual Cafe, for advancing women’s leadership. 

​With a dynamic approach to life and an iconic signature style, I’m a veteran of comprehensive human capital strategies for multi-billion-dollar global organizations. My more than 25 years of experience has allowed me to create organizational value and strong real-world results by helping people, globally.

Mama Sol

After her bout with Cancer, Sol earned a job as a Lead Teacher and Director of Special Education at Timbuktu Academy of Science and Technology, an African Centered School on Detroit’s Eastside. There the name “Mama Sol” was coined. While teaching, Sol received news that she would conceive a gift, a baby boy. In order to be the type of Mother and Artist she was called to be, she reluctantly left the confines of the school walls. She promised her students she would keep the name “Mama Sol” to honor them, and made a deliberate commitment to always impress positivity on the world by ensuring her words are honest and responsible.

As a Teacher & Mentor, Mama Sol has mothered so many for so long. She assures that it was teaching that prepared her for parenthood & taught her the importance of being an example of good.

According to Mama Sol, “Parenthood is the hardest job you’ll ever Love.”, & as a single mother rearing a young man, she truly commends the men committed beginning to end.

Motherhood has inspired some of Sol’s most profound compositions, “MANHOOD”, which is a tribute song to active fathers, was recognized by Congressman Mike Kildee & the Michigan Fatherhood Coalition. Mama Sol was a keynote performance for the Michigan Fatherhood Conference for several years & received their Special Recognition Award in 2016.

Mama Sol’s “SONS”, a song encouraging single-mothers to stay strong, gained global recognition & received over 1,000,000,000 views on social media. 

Mama Sol is an activist whose message extends across the globe. Sol has been welcomed to speak at several Job-Corps, schools, colleges, universities, churches, museums, prisons & detention-centers. Sol has a unique style in delivery that is unseen by todays motivational speakers. Lyrically, Sol has specialized skills with blending hip-hop & spoken word into motivating metaphors delivered in rhythm & rhyme that leaves the youth on the edge of their seats! Her most requested presentation is her “YOU ARE” speech & her collaborative workshop series entitled the “SELF-SERIES” focusing on the “SELFIE” & who is truly capturing & defining your “SELFIE” (Self- Love, Self- Discipline & Self Respect).

Martina Guzmán

Martina Guzmán is Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights Race and Justice Journalism Fellow at Wayne State University Law School.  She was awarded this prestigious honor in 2017.

Throughout her career Martina has focused on telling the stories of marginalized communities.  In 2019 Martina received a reporting grant to explore the impact of race and segregation on water shutoffs in Detroit and Johannesburg, South Africa.

In 2015 she was the recipient of a reporting grant from the Michigan Economic Center to report on water issues, which addressed race, justice and new water technology in the 21st century.

Concerned about the lack of reporting on Detroit elderly, Martina applied for and was selected by The MetLife Foundation Journalists in Aging program as a reporting fellow, which enabled her to tell health related stories of Latinas in a rapidly aging society.

In 2011 Martina was awarded a German Marshall Fund Journalism fellowship which allowed her to create the multi-media journalism project, The Detroit-Berlin Connection. The series was awarded best series by the Michigan Broadcasters Association and won first place for Best Investigative series from the Associated Press of Michigan.

From 2008 to 2015 Martina worked at WDET, Detroit’s NPR affiliate. There, she was awarded the 2009 Best State Wide Individual Reporter by the Associated Press. While at WDET she became the correspondent for The Takeaway, a nationally syndicated news show produced by Public Radio International.

Martina has produced and directed two documentaries—“Milagros: Made In Mexico,” a film shot in Guanajuato, Mexico about women left behind in rural villages when their loved ones migrate to the United States out of economic necessity.  The women portrayed in the film work hard to maintain close family ties, and balancing their new roles as heads of household and struggle to keep themselves out of poverty.

Milagros: Made In Mexico” won Best Documentary on matters relating to marginalized people at the Black International Cinema in Berlin, Germany in 2013.

Her second feature documentary “The Accidental Mummies of Guanajuato,” tells the story of the largest collection of accidental mummies in the Americas and their influence on Mexican popular culture. The film aired on Detroit PBS in 2010.

Martina is a sought after speaker and has been a guest lecturer at the American Embassy in Berlin, Germany, Brown, Columbia and Duke University, as well as the University of Notre Dame, Ohio State, The University of Michigan and the University Texas-Austin and many others. She is the proud daughter of Mexican immigrants and a graduate of Journalism School at Columbia University in New York City.

Megan Torrance

Megan Torrance is CEO and founder of TorranceLearning, which helps organizations connect learning strategy to design, development, data and ultimately performance. Megan has over 25 years of experience in learning design, deployment and consulting. Megan and the TorranceLearning team are passionate about sharing what works in learning, offering professional development programs in instructional design, learning technologies, racial equity and Agile methods. At TorranceLearning, Megan has brought several products to market – Eleventure® (an off-the-shelf curriculum of business skills topics), LLAMA® (an adaptation of Agile methods for the instructional design context), and xapi.ly® (the statement builder for xAPI learning products) – as well as founded the xAPI Learning Cohort (a 12-week learning experience offered twice a year with recent enrollment topping 850 worldwide), the ID Ways of Working professional development curriculum and CREW (Cultivating Racial Equity in the Workplace).

Megan is the author of Agile for Instructional Designers (2019), The Quick Guide to LLAMA (2012), and two ATD TD at Work publications: Agile and LLAMA® for ISD Project Management (2014) and Making Sense of xAPI (2017). She is a frequent speaker at conferences nationwide. TorranceLearning is on the 2018 list of Michigan 50 Companies to Watch. In 2019, the Learning Guild named Megan as a Guild Master for her contributions to professional development in the workplace L&D industry.

A graduate of Cornell University with a degree in Communication and an MBA, and an eCornell Facilitator in the Women’s Executive Leadership curriculum, Megan lives and works near Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Michelle Gayari

With more than 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Michelle Gayari is Executive Director, Global Operations at MMS, a global, leading clinical research organization. On a daily basis, Michelle leads the technical functions globally across four continents, across all therapeutic areas and services, including biostatistics and programming, data science, clinical data management, regulatory, medical writing, clinical trial transparency, clinical development strategy, and quality. 

  Utilizing a seamless, integrated global team structure, Michelle has been able to maintain a high level of retention among colleagues at MMS, while growing by double-digits annually and consistently increasing service offerings. Prior to Michelle’s tenure at MMS, she spent more than 9 years at Pfizer where she led programming efforts across Phases I-III studies for all indications of Lyrica® and several other neuroscience compound submissions as Associate Director. Additionally, Michelle is a CDISC Gold member and an invited speaker at many forums, including RAPS and DIA.

  As a leader, Michelle is acutely focused on recognizing the strength of a talented team and encouraging enthusiasm, curiosity, and drive for successful regulatory submissions. Michelle believes that the talented individuals at MMS are one of the main drivers behind continual growth. 

Monica Lewis-Patrick

Monica Lewis-Patrick is an educator, entrepreneur, and human rights activist/advocate. Along with the other four founders of We the People of Detroit (WPD), she, with the leadership of volunteers and community experts, placed herself and WPD at the forefront of the water justice struggle in Michigan, across the country and globally. Lewis-Patrick is known throughout the environmental justice community as The Water Warrior. She is actively engaged in the struggle for access to safe, affordable water for all under-resourced communities. She currently serves as a member of several organizations, boards, and committees dedicated to the advancement of water equity, including the National Water Affordability Table, All About Water/Freshwater Future -Subcommittee, PolicyLink-Water Energy Resource Caucus (WERC), Michigan Water Unity Table, End Water Poverty, and Healing Our Waters/Equity Advocacy and Action Committee. In October of 2015, she was named to the World Water Justice Council. In 2019 she was appointed to the International Joint Commission (IJC) Great Lakes Water Quality Advisory Board, and she received an appointment to the Michigan Advisory Council on Environmental Justice by Gov. Whitmer.As a former Lead Legislative Policy Analyst for Detroit City Council, Monica has authored legislation, conducted research, and delivered constituency services to thousands of city residents. Lewis-Patrick attended the historic Bennett College. She is a graduate of East Tennessee State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Sociology and a Masters of Arts of Liberal Studies degree with a concentration in Criminal Justice/Sociology and Public Management. She is currently one of the leaders at the forefront of the water rights struggle in Michigan.

Monica Woodson

As an accomplished CEO with extensive experience in managing the daily operations of nonprofit organizations, my passion can be found in service to youth, families and communities. I take a mission driven and results oriented approach to my work and strive to be innovative in operational leadership and overall programmatic development.

Palencia Mobley

Palencia Mobley, P.E. was appointed as the Deputy Director/Chief Engineer of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department by Mayor Mike Duggan and approved by the Board of Water Commissioners in January 2016. She is currently responsible for the engineering, facilities, capital construction and regulatory affairs of the department. Prior to her appointment as Deputy Director, Mobley led the operations negotiations on behalf of the City for establishment of the new Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA). The GLWA is a regional water authority which pays the DWSD $50 million per year for the next 40 years to lease and operate the water and wastewater treatment facilities which serve Southeastern Michigan.

Mobley is a graduate of the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and Wayne State University with a Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering. In 2006, she became one of the youngest minority women to ever attain licensure as a Professional Engineer in Michigan. In July of 2018, Mobley was appointed by Governor Rick Snyder to the Michigan Infrastructure Council, a state led board responsible for implementing an asset management strategy for infrastructure for the next 30 years.

Sarah Green

I am a FULL-time Realtor in search of FUN clients who are looking to Buy, Sell, or Lease. I have been selling real estate for 15 years and can answer just about any real estate related question you may have. October 2019 I was lucky enough to start my own real estate company with one of my colleagues~ Introducing ~ The Brokerage Real Estate Enthusiasts with locations in Clarkston and Davison and Fenton. On average I sell 75 homes a year all around Genesee, Livingston, and Oakland Counties. Not in one of these counties? That’s Ok, give me a call and let me see if I can assist or find someone who can.   Follow me on Facebook for all my latest real estate updates. @SarahGreenRealty

Shannon Cohen

Shannon Cohen is the founder and CEO of Shannon Cohen, Inc. — a boutique firm with a mighty imprint and reputation for excellence. Shannon specializes in developing customized emotional intelligence, equity, and wellness colloqui for organizations across diverse sectors and industries. Her clients include: The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, Helen Devos Children’s Hospital, Michigan Public Health Institute, Henry Ford Health System, United Way, The American Heart Association, Steelcase, The City of Grand Rapids, The County of Kent, The University of Michigan, The University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, The City of Holland, Gentex Corporation, Atomic Object, Grace Hopper — AnitaB.org; Mercantile Bank, The Urban Core Collective, Bissell, and the Grand Rapids Community Foundation. Using a head+heart approach, Shannon excels in engaging change agents in transparent conversations about the unspoken truths of leadership and self-care to nurture longevity in leadership. Shannon doesn’t just ‘speak’ to leaders; she speaks ‘into’ the lives of leaders.

Shannon is an author, podcaster, and owner of an inspirational product line called Tough Skin, Soft Heart. Her Tough Skin, Soft Heart products are available at retailers across the country. Her podcast reaches subscribers nationally and globally with weekly grab-and-go encouragement for difference makers. Her 2nd book, “ It’s Normal to Shake as You Soar ” was released in October 2020. In February 2021, Shannon’s signature brand of greeting cards, will debut at Target stores nationwide via a partnership with American Greetings.

Shannon is respected and renowned for empowering organizations to integrate innovation, research, emerging trends, and creativity to cultivate continuous improvement and spur ongoing learning. In November 2020, Shannon was named one of the 200 Most Powerful Business Leaders in West Michigan. Shannon is the 2020 YWCA Tribute Award recipient and was named one of the 2020 and 2018 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan by the Grand Rapids Business Journal. Shannon is an alumnus of the prestigious W.K. Kellogg Foundation Community Leadership Network Fellowship and adjunct professor in the Grand Valley State University College of Community and Public Service.

Shannon is also co-founder of Sisters Who Lead , [sisterswholead.com] a regional talent and wellness affinity movement designed to advance the well-being and career mobility of women of color to executive leadership. Shannon has co-authored two regional workplace climate studies entitled: “ Invisible Walls, Ceilings, and Floors: Championing the Voices and Inclusion of Female Leaders of Color in West Michigan” and “From Knowing Better to Doing Better: Closing the Opportunity Gap for Women of Color in the Workplace through Transformed Systems Behavior”.

Learn more about Shannon at: www.shannoncohen.com

Shannon Wilson

Shannon Wilson is the Vice President of Medicaid for Southeast Michigan for Priority Health, a Michigan-based health plan. In her role, Ms. Wilson is responsible for managing and growing Priority Health’s Medicaid program in Southeast Michigan. Ms. Wilson’s responsibilities also including ensuring the quality of Priority Health’s Medicaid program statewide, overseeing the Total Health Care Foundation, community relations in Southeast Michigan and development and execution of a strategy to address Social Determinants of Health impacting the Priority Health membership.

Ms. Wilson is a public health leader focused on improving the health and well-being of residents across the state of Michigan. She is passionate about strengthening the health care safety net for vulnerable populations and has devoted most of her career to studying the intersection between health and race – with a desire to improve the health care experience for vulnerable populations.

Work experience
Prior to accepting her role at Priority Health, Ms. Wilson served as the Executive Director of the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute, Vice President of the Alliance for Health, Scientific Program Coordinator at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the first health disparities epidemiologist at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Education
Ms. Wilson received a bachelors of Science in Microbiology from Michigan State University, and a Masters of Public Health in Hospital and Molecular Epidemiology from the University of Michigan. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in public health leadership from the University of Illinois-Chicago.

Talecia Felton

My name is Talecia Felton, and I’m the owner of A’leci Naturals located in Oak Park, Michigan. My story begins with a great desire to live a healthy lifestyle in my early forties. I began to learn all about the natural benefits of plant therapy through essential oils. These benefits range from anti-bacterial, anti-anxiety, and anti-depression plant oils. One day I decided to incorporate a high grade, therapeutic brand of essential oils into my daily routine.

My overall desire was to incorporate many natural remedies into my daily life style. Most importantly, I wanted to protect my family from the COVID-19 virus. I did a lot of research, and discovered that MOST soaps are filled with synthetic toxic chemicals. I also learned that many soaps are not natural or real soap at all. Some will tend to leave a toxic residue on your body after every use. These chemicals can be absorbed into your blood stream, which can create even bigger health problems. Frustrated with all the “unsoaped” brands on the market,  I decided to start making my own all natural, anti-bacterial soap with moisturizing benefits in of August 2020. Today, we carry a full line of therapeutic soaps, moisturizers and scented aromatherapy candles. To learn more about our company and our products please visit AleciNaturals.com.

Tamika Brown

Tamika Brown is President and Chief Experience Officer of RSVP Premier Group, LLC, a meeting, event, experiential marketing, incentive, concierge & lifestyle management company based in Troy, MI. Founded in 2005, RSVP Premier Group became certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) in 2013 by the Great Lakes Women’s Business Council. After obtaining her WBE Certification, RSVP Premier Group experienced a significant growth in business and received several honorable mentions. Tamika was the recipient of the Business on the Rise Award from Stiletto Magazine. In 2015, RSVP Premier Group received the MVP “Most Valuable Professional” Award from Corp! Magazine and in 2018 and 2019, she was nominated by Michigan Meetings & Events Magazine as The Best Event Planner in Metro Detroit.

With over 15 years of meeting and event experience, Tamika has planned numerous conferences, meetings, special events, tradeshows and experiential marketing events for several Fortune 500 companies, associations and non-profit organizations nationwide.

Tamika’s strategic leadership and visionary insight helps ensure each event is aligned with the client’s mission/objective to ensure maximum results and ROI. As Chief Experience Officer and Curator, she specializes in creating unique attendee/guest experiences and engagement for in-person and virtual events.

Tamika is Vice-President of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Greater Detroit Chapter. She serves on the Signature Events Experience Committee for the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council (MMSDC), and on the WBE Forum and other committees for the Great Lakes Women’s Business Council (WBENC). She is also a member of the Finance Committee for the Michigan Meeting Planners International (MPI) Chapter.

Tamika has been a mentor and advisor to many up-and-coming entrepreneurs by helping them to understand the importance of certification. She recently participated as a panel speaker during the Great Lakes WBE Forum: Mentors and Coaches. She has assisted aspiring business owners with developing their business plan and invited them to attend the various supplier diversity and matchmaking events that she plans for automotive manufacturers.

Tamika is a graduate of the prestigious Dartmouth Tuck School of Business: Google Digital Excellence Program (June 2018) and Building a High Performing Minority Business Program (November 2018).

She is a contributing writer and has been featured in: Michigan Meetings & Events Magazine, Meeting Planners International (MPI) Professional Magazine, Wedding Planner Magazine, DIY Television Network and other event and lifestyle industry related blogs and forums.

Tamika was featured on the cover of the October 2019 edition of the global Meeting Professionals International (MPI) magazine. She publishes a bi-monthly newsletter: News You Can Use and is set to launch her podcast The Meeting Masters in the spring of 2021.

Tamika is very active in the community and believes in giving back. She served as a mentor at Winning Futures where she mentored students at the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy. Tamika and her staff also support: The Genesis House Women’s Shelter, Forgotten Harvest and the North End Youth Improvement Council’s Annual Adopt a Child Christmas Program.

You can connect with her on social media at:

Web: www.rsvppremier.com
Instagram: @tamikabrownrsvp
LinkedIn: Tamika Brown and RSVP Premier Group

Tarolyn Buckles

Ms. Tarolyn Buckles is President and CEO of Onyx Enterprise, Inc.

Onyx Enterprise, Inc. is a certified woman and minority owned engineering consulting firm headquartered in Detroit, Michigan and an office in Cleveland, OH and Atlanta Georgia. Onyx will be expanding geographically with offices opening soon in Tampa, FL. Ms. Buckles is a graduate of the University of Michigan Civil Engineering Structures. She has worked 32 years in the civil engineering, construction and real estate industry.

As a Civil Engineer and Project Manager Ms. Buckles worked for MDOT, Waste Management, ARCADIS, and METCO. Onyx Enterprise, Inc. was established in 2007 and launched full-time in 2011. Onyx signature projects are M-1 Rail, I-94 Bridge Municipal Utility design and construction engineering services, the DWSD Technical Advisor, GLWA Wastewater Master Plan and Lake Huron WTP Miscellaneous Mechanical Improvements, City of Detroit DPW Streetscapes, Wayne County Airport Berry Terminal DemolitionQA/QC and Safety Manager, Wayne County Roads (Warren, Haggarty, Middlebelt, and Inkster, Cherry Hill) and NEORSD Hydraulic Modeling Projects. Construction Contractor Building Renovations: Walker Miller Energy Services, Walker Miller Residence Building Renovations. Onyx has experienced consistent growth each year with an increase in staff from 4 to 8 employees and 30-50% increase in net profits each year.

Ms. Buckles is alumni of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business prestigious program. Ms. Buckles is also a graduate of the SBA Emerging Leaders, the Turner Construction Management program, and Barton Marlow MentorMe MMSDC, and Inforum Masters Class programs in Detroit. Ms. Buckles serves on four (4) Boards: Michigan Virtual Charter School Board Treasurer, University of Michigan College of Civil Engineering Board member, University of Michigan Engineering Alumni Board (MEAB) Board member, and University of Michigan Engineer Magazine.

She is the Co-Founder and Chair of National Association of Minority Consulting Engineers (NAMCE) – Detroit Chapter and also active in many organizations American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC)-Small Business Committee, National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Detroit Professionals Past Chair; National Organization of Minority Architects-NOMA; CoFounder of Coalition of Minority Professional Engineering Societies (NSBE, SWE, SHPE), COMPES – Detroit, MI; and Co-Founder of COBO Coalition of Black Organizations- now known as Black Affinity Group; and COMTO Coalition of Minority Transportation Officials.

www.onyx-enterprise.com

Tonya Acha

Tonya Acha is a referral marketing expert. She is the owner of TAC Coaching and Training and also the Managing Director for BNI in Michigan, helping 100’s of people generates millions of dollars every year for her clients through a variety of marketing strategies.

Tonya’s passion for networking, coaching, and presenting has been instrumental in helping thousands of professionals every year increase sales and strengthen relationships. As an entrepreneur herself she understands the importance of shaping relationships to leverage successful strategies for increased performance.

Tonya Adair

Tonya Adair is Chief People, Equity, & Engagement Officer at United Way for Southeastern Michigan. She joined the organization in 2018 as the Chief Impact Officer to provide executive oversight of the community impact strategies for United Way. In this role, Tonya was responsible for leading the impact teams to assure consistent focus on stable households and thriving children for communities served. Within two years, Tonya provided leadership in the successful development and implementation of several new initiatives and collaborative local and national partnerships, designed to drive transformational results for community impact objectives. Efforts include Connect313, tech funds for Detroit charter school students, Connecting Seniors Project, Choose Healthy Life Faith–Based Partnership, Harlem Children’s Zone Audacious Project COVID Response, established five UWSEM Community Schools, implemented The Pontiac Literacy Grants, My Home Library Project, Virtual Family Literacy Fairs, Parent Community of Practice Pandemic Support Group, Early Childhood Support Network, and more.

In her new role, Tonya is charged with leading several departments including People and Culture; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Corporate and Community Engagement; and Marketing. The office serves as a backbone support to the overall organization, providing collaborative supports and services to assure effective and efficient operations, functions, and experiences for all staff and stakeholders engaged with United Way for Southeastern Michigan. Additionally, Tonya will lead social innovation and collective impact partnerships designed to produce equitable outcomes for children and families within the Southeastern Michigan community.

Tonya’s professional background, education, and experience as a transformational leader in education positions her to serve well in this role. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Grambling State University and a master’s degree in education administration and leadership from Alverno College. Additionally, she also holds a human resource management certification from Cardinal Stritch University of Milwaukee and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in language and literacy.

Tonya has held several professional affiliations, received numerous professional recognitions, and served on multiple boards and committees over the years. Tonya proudly serves on the boards of directors for City Year Detroit, The Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan, and serves on the advisory council for The Greenlight Fund.

Over the years, Tonya has received several awards and honors, including: The 2020 Salute to Diversity Award from Corp! Magazine, 2018 Induction to the Alverno College Vanguard Society, Top Ladies of Distinction Education Award, Wisconsin Women on the Move; Educational Administrator of the Year from the Civic Music Association of Milwaukee; Sarah Scott Outstanding Administrator Award from the Metropolitan Milwaukee Alliance of Black School Educators; and the Ladies of Great Distinction Award from the African American Ladies Empowered to Grow Opportunities.

Tricia Ruby

Tricia Ruby is President and Chief Executive Officer of Ruby+Associates, Inc., a structural engineering firm founded in 1984. Serving as President and CEO since 2011, Tricia has strategically transformed the business and culture, resulting in 262% revenue growth and attracting engineers from top universities throughout the region. In 2016, Ruby+Associates, a certified Women Business Enterprise, was ranked nationally and featured in Fortune Magazine as a Top 50 Great Place to Work® in the Small Companies category in 2016, and it has been certified as a Great Place to Work® for the past five years.

In addition, the firm has been recognized for its many accomplishments in exemplary engineering under Tricia’s leadership by the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC); the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC)/Michigan; the National Council of Structural Engineers Association, and the Structural Engineers Association of Illinois, among others. The firm was most recently recognized in 2020 as one of the 50 Companies to Watch by Michigan Celebrates Small Business.

Tricia believes in giving back to the community and does so through involvement in a variety of industry and community organizations including Judson Center, the Construction Association of Michigan, ACEC, AISC, and others. She believes strongly in encouraging girls and women to consider opportunities in STEM, and served as Chair for the American Heart Association Go Red Goes STEM event in 2018, aimed at empowering Detroit Public Schools Community District girls interested in STEM careers. That same year, Tricia, along with four other women, formed the ACEC Women in Leadership group which provides a national forum for female engineering leaders to network, and advises ACEC leadership on advancing diversity initiatives.

Tricia has been recognized throughout the years with honors and awards, including: 2020 EY Entrepreneur of the Year® Michigan & Northwest Ohio Finalist; American Council of Engineering Companies 2019 Community Service Award; 2019 Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan Tough Enough to Be a Girl Scout Honoree; 2019 Crain’s Detroit Notable Women in STEM Honoree; 2018 Corp! Magazine Salute to Diversity Business Leader Honoree; 2018 Rhonda Walker Foundation Powerful Women of Purpose in STEM Honoree; 2017 Leadership Detroit, Class XXXIX; 2017 Dbusiness Powered By Women Class, and the 2016 Vistage Michigan Soaring Eagle Award.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University and a Master of Science in Manufacturing Management from Kettering University.