Alyssa Bouchard, 34

Vice President of CommunicationsMichigan Bankers Association In her seven-year tenure at the Michigan Bankers Association (MBA), Alyssa Bouchard has demonstrated exceptional professionalism and dedication, earning the respect of colleagues and stakeholders alike. As vice president of communications, Bouchard plays a pivotal role in shaping internal and external messaging for the 6,000-member organization. Her responsibilities run Continue Reading

Dr. Dick Sadler, 38

Associate ProfessorMichigan State University Known locally as the “map guy,” Dr. Dick Sadler’s skills in geographic information science and community-based public health research can be applied to many local needs and applications. A tenured associate professor in the Department of Public Health at Michigan State University’s research unit in Flint, his work revolves around building Continue Reading

Samantha Fountain, 34

Manager of Economic ProgrammingTri-County Regional Planning Commission Samantha Fountain is experienced in all facets of economic and community development. As manager of economic programming for Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, Samantha Fountain helps municipalities and organizations throughout the greater Lansing area collaborate on federal opportunities and helps facilitate regional projects. Prior to her current role, she Continue Reading

Jordan Johnson, 28

CEO/FounderThe CRAVE Academy Jordan Johnson is a champion for students living with developmental disabilities. That’s why she founded The CRAVE Academy in October 2023. The mobile school delivers customized life skills and job readiness programs tailored specifically for high schoolers learning with developmental disabilities. Her mission is to facilitate a seamless transition to independence for Continue Reading

Amir E. Abu-Aita, 35

AttorneyAbu-Aita Law Firm, PLLC Amir E. Abu-Aita is an attorney at the Abu-Aita Law Firm, PLLC in Grand Blanc where he specializes in elder law, Medicaid, veterans benefits planning, probate and estate planning, business transactions, and assisted living law. He has an extensive background in helping the elderly through his family-owned, licensed, assisted living homes. Continue Reading

Dr. Amber Schlemmer, 39

Owner/CEOPrimary Prevention Physiotherapy As the driving force behind Primary Prevention Physiotherapy, Dr. Amber Schlemmer leads with professionalism and heartfelt empathy. Born and raised in Flushing, Schlemmer was proud to return to her hometown to provide physiotherapy services to the community she loves. She approaches each patient interaction with warmth and sincerity, making them feel seen, Continue Reading

Kenneth Frierson, 36

Program OfficerRuth Mott Foundation Kenneth Frierson is a thought leader and administrator with more than 15 years of professional experience in education and philanthropy. He currently serves as a program officer at the Ruth Mott Foundation, where he is responsible for a diverse grant portfolio and helps to steward funds to programs and organizations in Continue Reading

Tim Jones, 37

Athletic DirectorSylvester Broome Empowerment Village For two decades, Tim Jones has dedicated himself to his two biggest passions: athletics and helping kids. Throughout his career, Jones has traveled across the nation and world to strengthen his leadership skills on the athletic field. In Genesee County, he served as athletic director for the Linden Charter Academy, Continue Reading

Joel Arnold, 31

Planning & Advocacy ManagerCommunities First, Inc. Committed to Flint, Joel Arnold brings a passion for community planning and collaboration to his role as planning and advocacy manager at Communities First, Inc. His work focuses on urban planning and civic engagement, empowering neighbors to make a material impact in their community. In this role, Arnold has Continue Reading

Mason Sommer, 27

CEOSpud Software Mason Sommer is a visionary who runs things by the data. After working at Spud Software in Grand Blanc for nearly a decade, Sommer took over as CEO with a plan. Now four years later, he has restructured the 26-year-old business management software firm, improved quality, updated the onboarding process for new hires, Continue Reading