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     * Tax Policy Basics
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   * Beck Scholarship: Apply Now
 * Our Latest Work
   * Reproductive Justice for Michigan
   * RAISE THE STANDARD: Revitalize the Family Independence Program to Help More
     Michigan Families Reach Financial Stability
   * 2022 Election
 * Kids Count
   * Michigan
     * 2022 Kids Count in Michigan Data Profiles
     * Making Michigan a top state to have and raise a baby
     * Child Care in Michigan
     * 2020 Right Start Report
     * View All Kids Count in Michigan Materials
   * National
     * National 2022 KIDS COUNT Data Book
     * 2018 Opening Doors for Young Parents Report
   * Great Start Data Set
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     * Food Issues: Share your story
     * EITC: Share your story
     * Healthcare: Share your story
     * Housing Issues: Share your story
     * Child Care: Share your story
     * Raise the Age: Share your story
   * Presentations
   * Donate
 * Blog
 * Newsroom
   * League In the News
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 * Who We Are
   * About MLPP
   * Staff
   * League History
   * Contact Us
   * Registration
   * Careers
 * What We Do
   * COVID-19 Policy Briefs
   * Budget
     * 2023 State Budget
     * Budget Basics
   * Health
   * Immigration
   * Jobs and Economy
   * Economic Security
     * Child Care in Michigan
     * Home, Health, Hope
     * Cities in Crisis
   * Racial Equity
   * Education
   * Criminal Justice Issues
   * Tax
     * Tax Policy Basics
     * EITC (Earned Income Tax Credit)
   * Geographic Facts
   * Testimony
   * Beck Scholarship: Apply Now
 * Our Latest Work
   * Reproductive Justice for Michigan
   * RAISE THE STANDARD: Revitalize the Family Independence Program to Help More
     Michigan Families Reach Financial Stability
   * 2022 Election
 * Kids Count
   * Michigan
     * 2022 Kids Count in Michigan Data Profiles
     * Making Michigan a top state to have and raise a baby
     * Child Care in Michigan
     * 2020 Right Start Report
     * View All Kids Count in Michigan Materials
   * National
     * National 2022 KIDS COUNT Data Book
     * 2018 Opening Doors for Young Parents Report
   * Great Start Data Set
   * Archive
 * Engage With Us
   * Advocacy
   * Get Updates
   * Ask Your Candidates
   * Tell Us Your Story
     * Food Issues: Share your story
     * EITC: Share your story
     * Healthcare: Share your story
     * Housing Issues: Share your story
     * Child Care: Share your story
     * Raise the Age: Share your story
   * Presentations
   * Donate
 * Blog
 * Newsroom
   * League In the News
   * News Releases





DISCUSSION FORUM: 21-DAY RACIAL EQUITY CHALLENGE

Home » Discussion Forum: 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge


This discussion forum is a safe space to publicly reflect on the Michigan League
for Public Policy’s racial equity challenge. We ask that you respect the
sanctity of this group by responding thoughtfully, and we ask that you
understand that all comments will be moderated. You may participate anonymously
(simply post as a guest) or you may register to attach your name to your
comments.  Please email lauramr@mlpp.org with any questions or concerns.

Please be sure to review the 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge before posting. To
post, click on the day of the challenge you want to discuss, then click “new
topic.”

REGISTER FOR DISCUSSION HERE.

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Jordan Brooks

Jordan Brooks (he/him) joined the Michigan League for Public Policy as a Visual
Communications Assistant in February 2023. In his role, Jordan showcases his
passion for social justice and securing equality for everyone by visually
communicating through different mediums. Before joining the League, Jordan held
many different hats that include: Design Resident, Founder, Graphic Design
Intern, and Print Specialist. Take a look at his award-winning portfolio here.

Jordan earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design with a minor in
Art Photography from Michigan State University in May 2022. His philosophy is:
“I create with less.” He believes the focus should be on what’s needed and not
the distracting elements. Be willing to push the boundaries and be free, as that
turns up the most creative solution. To detach from work, he catches up on
sleep, collects all types of sneakers, and learns about art, tech, and design.

Contact: Jbrooks@mlpp.org

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Jayme Vosovic

Jayme Vosovic joined the Michigan League for Public Policy in January of 2019
and is the Community Engagement Director. Jayme leads the League’s work with
organizations around the state to connect the impact of budget and tax policies
to their communities. She is committed to partnering with stakeholders to
amplify constituent voices so that all Michiganders have the opportunity to
thrive.

Prior to joining the League, Jayme served as the West Michigan Regional
Coordinator for U.S. Senator Gary Peters and interned with Grand Rapids Mayor
Rosalynn Bliss. Jayme has worked with survivors of sexual assault, families
experiencing homelessness, the Mayor’s Greening Initiative, affordable housing,
and sits on the board of directors for Girls on the Run of Kent and Muskegon
Counties. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Grand Valley State University
and a Master in Social Work—with a macro focus—from Michigan State University.

Contact: jvosovic@mlpp.org

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Renell Weathers

Renell Weathers, Michigan League for Public Policy (MLPP) Community Engagement
Consultant. As community engagement consultant, Renell works with organizations
throughout the state in connecting the impact of budget and tax policies to
their communities. She is motivated by the belief that all children and adults
deserve the opportunity to achieve their dreams regardless of race, ethnicity,
religion or economic class.

Renell has recently participated in the Leadership Institute for State-Based
Advocates Project with the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Prior to coming to the
League, she worked as Senior District Representative for U.S. Rep. Mark Schauer
where she collaborated with a diverse array of community leaders, agencies,
grassroots organizations and local units of government. She also served as
Constituent Relations Director and District Representative for the Office of
Michigan Senate Minority Leader, has managed a nonprofit that provided programs
for youth and families and operated a child care program.

In 2011, in recognition of her community service, Jackson College awarded Renell
the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Service Award. The King Medal of
Service Award recognizes individuals in Jackson for their community service and
who believe in the basic tenets of cultural and ethnic diversity, recognize the
richness and strength that comes from valuing others of different groups and
encourage minority group members to participate fully in our society.

Renell’s career has been devoted to improving the results for families by
promoting access to economic opportunities. She attended Wayne State University
and holds a bachelor of arts in management and organizational development from
Spring Arbor University.

Contact: rweathers@mlpp.org

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Anne Kuhnen

Anne Kuhnen joined the Michigan League for Public Policy as a tax policy analyst
in July 2021. Before joining the league, she worked at the International Fund
for Agricultural Development as a monitoring and evaluation specialist
supporting rural development and agriculture projects in West and Central
Africa. Anne began her career in education, teaching high school math and
computer science in Kentucky for four years and supporting a bilingual program
at a vocational school in the Netherlands for one year. 

Anne received her Bachelor of Arts in Humanities, History, and French from the
University of Texas at Austin as well as a Master of Science in Education from
Johns Hopkins. She also holds a Master of Public Affairs from Princeton, where
she concentrated in Economics and Public Policy.

 

 

Contact: annek@mlpp.org

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Hannah Gyani

Hannah Gyani joined the Michigan League for Public Policy in June of 2022 as the
Metro Detroit Community Engagement Specialist. In her role with the league,
Hannah works with organizations to connect the dots between policy and everyday
life – ensuring that everyone has the skills, resources, and knowledge to be an
effective advocate. She is passionate about amplifying diverse voices and
building equitable communities through policy change at the local, state, and
federal levels. 

Prior to joining the League, Hannah served in various capacities across the
government and nonprofit sectors. Most recently she worked as a Program
Operations Manager for Pontiac Community Foundation where she assisted in
evaluating, planning, and implementing community development initiatives. Prior
to that, she served as the Economic Development Director for U.S. Congresswoman
Haley Stevens and as a Community Outreach Representative for U.S. Congressman
Sander Levin. In her roles she was responsible for community engagement and
outreach, advising on and researching grant opportunities, furthering economic
development strategies, and connecting with public and private entities to
advance policy recommendations. 

She holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Social Work with a concentration
in Community, Policy, and Leadership, both from Wayne State University. In her
spare time, you can find her listening to an audiobook or podcast at 1.5x speed,
having silly conversations with her niece, or spending time with her husband,
family and friends.

Contact: hgyani@mlpp.org

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Megan Farnsworth

Megan Farnsworth joined the League’s staff in December 2022 as Executive
Assistant. Megan is driven by work that is personally fulfilling, and feels
honored to help support the work of an organization that pushes for more robust
programming and opportunities for the residents of our state. She’s excited and
motivated to gain overarching knowledge of the policies and agendas that the
League supports.

Megan graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in
Economics with a Business Cognate. She first used her degree in the field of
property management and later began working in the nonprofit sector. Her
experience includes administrative support at a national medical board, NASW-MI,
and the association for school food service directors across Michigan.

Megan is an avid reader, though lately more of her off-work hours are spent
taxiing her children around to various sports events and practices. Physical
fitness is important to Megan as well, as she is a runner who has completed two
half marathons over the past five years. Megan also loves to cook, and bakes for
fun when she gets the chance.

Contact: mfarnsworth@mlpp.org

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Monique Stanton

Monique Stanton was named President and CEO of the Michigan League for Public
Policy in 2021.

Monique has dedicated her career to promoting social justice and advancing
equity in Michigan. She is committed to addressing economic inequality,
advancing racial equity, and promoting the health and well-being of Michiganders
through public policy change. Previously, Monique served as President & CEO of
CARE of Southeastern Michigan, one of Michigan’s largest peer recovery coaching
programs.

She has also served on the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network Substance Use
Disorder Policy Oversight Board, Michigan Celebrate Recovery, Great Start
Collaborative Macomb, Macomb County Prisoner Re-Entry Advisory Council, Greater
Area Detroit Health Council, Michigan Community Health Association Provider
Alliance, Metro Affairs Coalition Public Health Task Force, Macomb Children’s
Healthcare Access Program. 

She is a Leadership Detroit XXXVIII and Leadership Macomb XVII graduate. 
Monique has received the following recognitions: Macomb County Chamber of
Commerce Foundation Athena Award Recipient 2020, Crain’s Detroit Business
Notable Women in Healthcare 2020, Margrove College Distinguished Alumni 2018,
Detroit Free Press and Metro Affairs Coalition Shining Light Award 2014, and
dBusiness Magazine 30 in their 30’s Honoree 2013.  

Monique received her undergraduate degree from Aquinas College and a Master of
Arts in Social Justice from Marygrove College.

 

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Karen Holcomb-Merrill

Karen Holcomb-Merrill currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer with the
League. In that capacity, Karen oversees the League’s public policy and advocacy
work. Karen is an experienced coalition-builder and advocate. Prior to coming to
the League, Karen was the Public Policy Consultant for Tobacco-Free Michigan,
working for smoke-free laws. Before her tenure at Tobacco-Free Michigan, Karen
served as the Executive Director of Common Cause in Michigan for 14 years.

Karen is a graduate of Albion College, with a degree in Political Science and an
emphasis in Public Policy.

Contact: karenhm@mlpp.org

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June-October

The Legislature must present their final budget bills to the governor by July 1.
She can veto specific items and the final budget must be signed by October 1.

What can you do?
Contact the governor about items of concern to you.

 

×
Kelli Bowers

Kelli Bowers joined the Michigan League for Public Policy as a Kids Count Data
Analyst in September 2021. In her role with the League, Kelli works with  data
for the Kids Count project with the goal of improving outcomes for children and
families across Michigan through data-driven advocacy. 

Prior to joining the League, Kelli was a McNair scholar and has a bachelor of
science degree in sociology from Grand Valley State University. She has
expertise in the sociology of race and ethnicity and has a broad interest in
Indigenous policy. Currently Kelli is a Master of Public Policy student at
Michigan State University and is working on a capstone project pushing for data
sovereignty of Indigenous populations.

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Rachel Richards
Rachel Richards rejoined the League in December 2020 as the Fiscal Policy
Director working on state budget and tax policies. Prior to returning to the
League, she served as the Director of Legislative Affairs for the Michigan
Department of Treasury, the tax policy analyst and Legislative Director for the
Michigan League for Public Policy, and a policy analyst and the Appropriations
Coordinator for the Democratic Caucus of the Michigan House of Representatives.
She brings with her over a decade of experience in policies focused on economic
opportunity, including workforce issues, tax, and state budget.

Rachel received her Bachelor of Arts in history and Spanish language and
literature from Kalamazoo College and her law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law
School. She is a member of the State Bar of Michigan. In her spare time, she
bakes, reads, and enjoys bike rides and hikes at the greater Lansing area parks
and trails with her husband and son.

 

Contact: rrichards@mlpp.org


 

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Yona Isaacs

Yona Isaacs (she/hers) is an Early Childhood Data Analyst for the Kids Count
project. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Biopsychology, Cognition, and
Neuroscience at the University of Michigan, she began her career as a research
coordinator in pediatric psychiatry using data to understand the impacts of
brain activity and genetics on children’s behavior and mental health symptoms.
This work prompted an interest in exploring social determinants of health and
the role of policy in promoting equitable opportunities for all children,
families, and communities. She returned to the University of Michigan to
complete her Masters in Social Work focused on Social Policy and Evaluation,
during which she interned with the ACLU of Michigan’s policy and legislative
team and assisted local nonprofit organizations in creating data and evaluation
metrics. She currently serves as a coordinator for the Michigan Center for Youth
Justice on a project aiming to increase placement options and enhance cultural
competency within the juvenile justice system for LGBTQIA+ youth. Yona is eager
to put her data skills to work at the League in support of data-driven policies
that advocate for equitable access to healthcare, education, economic security,
and opportunity for 0-5 year old children. In her free time, she enjoys tackling
DIY house projects and trying new outdoor activities with her dog.

Contact: yisaacs@mlpp.org

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Laura Ross

Laura Ross is a former educator who is committed to social justice issues.  She
values the connection of research and data with lived experiences and personal
stories in order to improve well-being in Michigan. She taught English and
journalism in the Lansing area from 2005 to 2018 and prior to that worked in
community development in Lansing’s Old Town neighborhood.

Laura has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Michigan State University with
minors in journalism and history, as well as a Master of Arts in secondary
education from Grand Valley State University. She loves to read, listen to
podcasts and walk the trails with her husband, son and Moose (the dog).

Contact: lauramr@mlpp.org

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Emily Jorgensen

Emily Jorgensen joined the Michigan League for Public Policy as Digital
Communications Specialist in July 2019. She deeply cares about the well-being of
individuals and families and has a great love for Michigan. She is grateful that
her position at the League enables her to combine these passions and work to
help promote policies that will lead to better opportunities and security for
all Michiganders.

Emily graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Applied Arts
degree in Integrative Public Relations and a double minor in Journalism and
Broadcasting and Cinematic Arts. She loves being an aunt and enjoys reading,
writing, music, general nerdery and spending time with friends who are family
and family who are friends. She may or may not be obsessed with her dog. (She
is.)

Contact: ejorgensen@mlpp.org

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Tillie Kucharek

Tillie Kucharek is the League’s graphic designer. She is responsible for design
and layout of graphics and formatting publications, reports, creating charts and
tables, and posting web content. She joined the League staff in 1989. She
attended Kendall School of Design and received an associates degree from Lansing
Community College in 1988.

contact: tkucharek@mlpp.org

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Christina Stone

Christina Stone joined the League in February 2019 as the League’s Bookkeeper
and loves to streamline all aspects of the accounting system.

She previously worked for CPA accounting firms in the Jackson, MI area (her
hometown) and is excited to be a part of the League’s vision.

Her bookkeeping and accounting experience began when she started recording the
receipts for her mother’s business at the age of 13. She also has extensive
knowledge in the preparation of payroll and payroll compliance issues and is a
Certified Payroll Professional.

She received her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting with a minor in Auditing and
Forensic Accounting from Kaplan University.

She is an empty nester who enjoys bowling (she’s on a league!) and camping in
the summer.

Contact: cstone@mlpp.org
Direct line: 517.275.1022

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Amber Bellazaire

Amber Bellazaire joined the Michigan League for Public Policy as a policy
analyst in June of 2019. Her work primarily focuses on state policy and budgets
affecting Michigan’s Medicaid programs. Previously, Amber worked at the National
Conference of State Legislatures tracking legislation and research related to
injury and violence prevention, adolescent health, and maternal and child
health. She also brings with her two years of Americorps service. As a full time
volunteer, Amber had the opportunity to tutor high school students in Chelsea,
Massachusetts and address issues of healthcare access and food insecurity
through in-person outreach in Seattle, Washington.

Amber holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and psychology and a Master of Public
Health from the University of Michigan.

Contact: abellazaire@mlpp.org

 

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Parker James

Parker James joined the Michigan League for Public Policy in August 2018 as the
Kids Count Policy Analyst. He is responsible for the collection and management
of data related to the Kids Count project. Prior to joining the League, Parker
used data for advocacy in various positions, including as project coordinator of
a health program in Southwest Michigan, graduate research assistant at The
Hilltop Institute, and housing policy intern with the National League of Cities.

Parker attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) as a
Sondheim Public Affairs Scholar, where he completed a bachelor’s degree in
health administration and policy. He went on to receive a master’s degree in
public policy from UMBC in 2017.

contact: pjames@mlpp.org
517.487.5436

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Kelsey Perdue

Kelsey Perdue joined the League in 2019 as the Kids Count Project Director. She
oversees data and advocacy work to increase economic security and racial equity
for children across Michigan.

Kelsey is dedicated to building better communities for everyone and is an avid
giver of her “time, treasure, and talent”. A dedicated volunteer, she gives back
through grassroots, local government, nonprofit and professional organizations
and committees.

Prior to joining the League, Kelsey managed and delivered direct service
programming in the education, health and technology sectors in West Michigan,
Washington, D.C. and abroad. Her diverse experiences inform her systems level
thinking and equity lens.

Kelsey is a recipient of the 2019 Grand Rapids Business Journal 40 Under 40
Business Leader Award, 2017 LINC UP Community Spirit Award and her work has been
highlighted in online and print publications.

A native of Grand Rapids, MI, Kelsey is an alumna of Howard University, the
Michigan Political Leadership Program, and a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta
Sorority, Incorporated.

Contact: kperdue@mlpp.org

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Brandon Betz

Brandon Betz joined the Michigan League for Public Policy in September 2019. He
is the League’s tax policy analyst. In his work, Brandon analyzes and researches
tax and other revenue generating policies to actively advocate for an equitable
and progressive tax system that supports communities of color and people with
low and moderate incomes.

Brandon is formally trained as a tax economist and has worked in the economics
field for over three years. After graduating from Syracuse University, Brandon
worked as an economic analyst for the Bureau of Labor Market Information and
Strategic Initiatives at the State of Michigan. There, he analyzed and reported
state labor market information and interfaced with strategic partners to
disseminate economic outlooks and forecasts. He also led a team that conducted a
robust program evaluation of Michigan’s workforce training programs. Prior to
joining the League, Brandon worked for a small consulting firm, where he
evaluated the economic and fiscal impacts of legislation for a diverse set of
clients, including lobbying groups, government agencies, nonprofits, and
industry associations.

Brandon’s passion lies in policy and politics. He is actively engaged in
Lansing’s progressive political movement. In 2019 he ran for city council to
represent his district in the city and has worked on a number of political
campaigns in the past.

Contact: bbetz@mlpp.org


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Simon Marshall-Shah

Simon Marshall-Shah joined the Michigan League for Public Policy as a State
Policy Fellow in August 2019. His work focuses on state policy as it relates to
the budget, immigration, health care and other League policy priorities. Before
joining the League, he worked in Washington, D.C. at the Association for
Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP), providing federal policy and advocacy support
to nonprofit, Medicaid health plans (Safety Net Health Plans) related to the ACA
Marketplaces as well as Quality & Operations.

Prior to moving to Michigan, Simon lived in Baltimore, Maryland where he gained
experience at various community-oriented nonprofits, including a health care
co-op, an organization analyzing outcomes and barriers to care in a local
medication-assisted treatment program and a fiscal sponsor providing operational
support to over 80 grassroots programs. Simon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public
Health Studies and Cognitive Science, as well as a Master of Science in Public
Health in Health Policy with a certificate in Community-Based Public Health from
Johns Hopkins University.

Contact: smarshall-shah

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Dwayne Barnes

Dwayne Barnes is a self-described “Scholar, gentleman and musician.” He is the
founder of Social Tech, a think tank that focuses on the issues related to
technology creation, consumption and its impact in urban communities.

Prior to joining the League, Dwayne was the engagement strategy and urban
outreach for the Center for Michigan and Bridge magazine a nonprofit and
nonpartisan think and do tank.

In 2013, Dwayne was the recipient of the Spirit of Detroit Award for his work
with Project: Better Man, Inc. a prostate cancer awareness, education, and
prevention organization in Detroit. Mr. Barnes’ professional work is based on
empowering communities to save themselves through education, entrepreneurship,
the arts, and policy.

In 2017, Dwayne earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Oakland
University and a BS in African American Studies from Eastern Michigan
University. Dwayne is married to Doria Barnes and has two children Dwayne Barnes
III and Dylan Barnes.

In addition to his educational and professional accomplishments, Dwayne is the
Chair of Recruitment for New Leaders Council Detroit Chapter.

Contact: dbarnes@mlpp.org 517.487.5436

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The League is proud to be partners in the following national projects:
State Priorities Partnership
Economic Analysis and Research Network
KIDS COUNT
The Working Poor Families Project

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Alicia Guevara Warren

Alicia Guevara Warren joined the Michigan League for Public Policy in 2014 as
the Tax Policy Analyst, and became the Kids Count in Michigan Project Director
in June 2015. She oversees the project, which includes the collection and
analysis of data to make informed policy recommendations to improve child
well-being. Alicia has an extensive background advocating for improved outcomes
for children and families through her work in the nonprofit sector with
Michigan’s Children, Community Economic Development Association of Michigan, and
School-Community Health Alliance of Michigan. Additionally, as Democratic
Central Staff for the Michigan House of Representatives, she served as the lead
analyst on issues affecting children, families, and seniors, along with
immigration, women’s health, and regulatory reform. Prior to joining the League,
Alicia was with the Office of Economic Development at the Michigan Department of
Transportation.

Alicia holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Sociology with a
specialization in law, criminology, and deviance from the University of Michigan
– Ann Arbor and a master’s of public affairs with a specialization in social and
economic policy from the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the
University of Texas at Austin.

Contact: aliciagw@mlpp.org

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Alex Rossman

Alex Rossman joined the League staff in 2015 as communications director. He
handles writing, editing and messaging, media relations and social media for the
League to help ensure our work gets the attention it deserves. Prior to joining
the League, Alex worked for Democratic Central Staff for the Michigan Senate for
almost ten years, serving as the deputy communications director and, previously,
as press secretary and communications advisor, helping draw attention to the
important legislative issues facing our state. He previously worked in
communications for the Michigan Chapter of The Nature Conservancy as well.

Alex holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and sports
management from Aquinas College, where he also ran cross country and track. Alex
grew up in Lansing, and used to ride his bike through Old Town where he now
works.

Contact: arossman@mlpp.org

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Julie Cassidy

Julie Cassidy joined the League as a policy analyst in 2017. Before that, she
spent 14 years working as a legislative analyst for the nonpartisan Senate
Fiscal Agency, where she specialized in health, energy and environmental issues.
Julie also has an extensive volunteer history of strategic planning and building
community partnerships related to local environmental stewardship efforts. She
holds a Bachelor of Arts in social relations from Michigan State University’s
James Madison College and a Master of Arts in public policy, also from MSU.

Contact: jcassidy@mlpp.org

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Pat Sorenson

Pat Sorenson rejoined the League staff in September 2012 as a senior policy
analyst working on state budget and tax policies. Prior to returning to the
League, Pat was the senior director for policy and advocacy at the Early
Childhood Investment Corporation; the vice president for policy at Michigan’s
Children; and a senior planning and research associate at the League, serving as
the organization’s first Kids Count director.

Pat has more than 30 years of experience in monitoring and analyzing state
budgets and policies affecting low income families and children, including the
founding and management of Michigan’s Children’s Budget Watch project. Pat
received her law degree in 1986 from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School and her
master’s in social work from the University of Michigan in 1978. She is a member
of the State Bar of Michigan.

Contact: psorenson@mlpp.org

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Peter Ruark

Peter Ruark has worked at the League since 2001 and currently serves as a Senior
Policy Analyst. He specializes in public policy related to adult skill
enhancement, college financial aid, job quality, public assistance and
corrections. He is active in national groups including the Working Poor Families
Project and the Economic Analysis Research Network, and served on the board of
the Michigan chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. Peter was
awarded the President’s Award from the Michigan Association of Community and
Adult Education for his advocacy on behalf of adult education funding, and was
recently featured on NPR’s Marketplace, where he discussed at length Michigan’s
use of federal public assistance funds for various state programs.

Prior to joining the League in 2001, Peter directed an after-school tutoring
program for at-risk children in Grand Rapids, taught English at the university
and high school levels in China and worked in the mental health field. Peter
holds a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy and psychology from Calvin College and a
Master of Social Work with a concentration in policy, planning and
administration from Western Michigan University.

Contact: pruark@mlpp.org

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Gilda Z. Jacobs

Gilda Z. Jacobs has served as president & CEO of the Michigan League for Public
Policy since 2011, following a 30-year career in public service at the local,
county and state levels. Gilda has won numerous awards for her work, including
being named as one of the 100 Most Influential Women in Michigan by Crain’s
Detroit Business in 2016 and receiving the Michigan Food Bank Council’s
Hunger-Free Award in 2015. In 2012, she participated in the Harvard Business
School’s Strategic Perspectives in the Nonprofit Leadership Program. Gilda
served in the state Senate for eight years after serving two terms in the
Michigan House of Representatives where she made history as the first woman
floor leader in either chamber of the Legislature. Prior to serving in the
Legislature, she served as an Oakland County Commissioner and a Huntington Woods
City Commissioner.

In addition to her civic leadership, Jacobs served as Development Director for
JARC, a Jewish association providing residential care for persons with
developmental disabilities. She also worked as a special education teacher in
the Madison School District. Jacobs received both her bachelor’s and master’s
degrees from the University of Michigan.

Contact: gjacobs@mlpp.org
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