Board of Directors
Officers
Mark Heppner, Chair, President & CEO, Ford House
Mark J. HeppnerPresident & CEO, Ford House
Mark is the President & CEO at the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores. Before assuming his current role, he was the Executive Director of Salisbury House & Gardens, an historic estate in Des Moines, Iowa, where he lived for three years.
Prior to that, he was the Vice President of Museum Services Division & Curator at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, an AAM accredited historic house museum and gardens in Akron, Ohio. He received his B.A. at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio with a major in History and minors in Political Science and Anthropology. His M.A. degree comes from Cleveland State University where he majored in American History with specific focus in public history and archival research. Mark is a 2004 graduate of the Seminar for Historical Administration program and in 2006 he spent a month in Thailand as a participant of the AAM sponsored International Partnerships Among Museums program focused on cultural exchange and appreciation. He is an active member of Rotary, Kiwanis and has filled several community leadership roles. Since his arrival to Michigan he has joined the board of MotorCities National Heritage Area and has become a member of the Rotary Club of Grosse Pointe.
In addition, he is a graduate of Leadership Akron (2008-2009) and the 2009-2010 Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute. Mark is very dedicated to local and state history, assisting museums and historical societies with various administrative, collections management, education, marketing, and other museum/community-related issues. He is married to his wife, Amy, and they have three children.
George Etheridge, Vice Chair, Economic Development Policy Manager for Activate Detroit
George Etheridge of Detroit, is the Economic Development Policy Manager for Activate Detroit (formerly Thomas Group Consulting) in Detroit.
Previously, he was a City Planner, Historic Planner, and Policy Analyst for the Detroit City Council and Detroit City Planning Commission. Etheridge has served in various policy positions for the Detroit City Council since December of 2006. Prior to his time in municipal government, he served as a Legislative Assistant to both U.S. Senator Carl Levin, and U.S. Congressman John Conyers, Jr. focused on issues germane to the region. During his time with the City of Detroit, he has curated and produced a series of documentaries, History in Bronze and Stone, focused on the sculptures and monuments erected in honor of the men and women whose impacts have contributed to the rich history of this region and the landscape of the City of Detroit in particular. He currently serves on the Detroit Historic Designation Advisory Board’s review committee for Honorary Secondary Street Names ensuring the historic authenticity of persons and events.
Etheridge also serves as one of the City Council’s liaisons for the City’s Community Benefits process in which he has had a role in overseeing the Neighborhood Advisory Council’s processes for both the FCA expansion and the Ford Motor Company Corktown Development projects. Etheridge currently serves as his neighborhood association President for the Castle Rouge Civic Association nestled in the shadow of the Detroit Diesel Assembly Plant in Redford, MI where he has forged a long-standing relationship with the men and women of UAW Local 163.
Etheridge is degreed with a concentration in Political Science and a minor in U.S. History from Wayne State University. He also studied Political Science with a concentration in Pre-law at Bethany College (formerly Bethany Christian College) in Bethany, WV. Etheridge most recently completed a Fellowship with the Michigan Political Leadership Program through the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research College of Social Science at Michigan State University in which a significant portion of the program was dedicated to the automotive history and contributions of the region.
Robert Kreipke, Immediate Past Chair, Ford Motor Company Historian Emeritus
Robert Kreipke is Ford Motor Company’s Historian Emeritus. Bob’s career at Ford included producing awarding winning films and videotapes, production of live shows, and executive strategic planning. Bob has also authored two international books – Ford Motor Company, the First 100 Years and The Model T.
In addition, Bob has directed various nationally recognized films, including award-winning documentaries shown on PBS.
His still photography and videos capture the beauty around the Great Lakes region and are displayed in many museums throughout the state. Bob lectures around the country relaying Ford’s colorful heritage.
During the past years he has served as President of several organizations: Oakland County Navy League, The International Television Association, The Detroit Producers Guild, and Historic Fort Wayne Advisory Board.
Bob has also worked as a Disc Jockey on WXYZ and has been a musician since 14. He has performed with many of the early classic rock and roll bands from this area.
Mallory Bower, Secretary, Historic Preservation Specialist, City of Detroit
Mallory Bower serves as a Historic Preservation Specialist for the City of Detroit. Previously, she was executive assistant and social media coordinator for the University of Michigan's Kelsey Museum of Archaeology. In this role, she provides support to the Chair, Chief Administrator and Kelsey administrative office; acts as lead coordinator for the department's strategic plans and initiatives; and spearheads the Kelsey's outreach efforts through social media.
Mallory also served as Southeast Michigan Field Representative for the Michigan Historic Preservation Network (MHPN), where for three years she engaged communities, nonprofits, property owners, and local leadership in the preservation of Michigan’s unique built and cultural landscapes. In December 2018, she was selected to participate in the Heritage Emergency and Response Training (HEART) through the Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative.
Prior to joining MHPN, Mallory worked in several museums, including The Henry Ford on an IMLS grant to conserve a part of their large electrical collection. Additionally, she completed a Mellon Conservation Internship with the National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2015.
Mallory graduated with a B.A. in Chemistry and History from Albion College and then completed a M.S. in Historic Preservation from Eastern Michigan University.
Nancy Thompson, Treasurer
Nancy Thompson has been involved in strategic planning and board leadership for MotorCities National Heritage Area f
or a number of years. Nancy also is currently associated with the Count Your Steps Inc, Michigan Historic Preservation Network, Michigan Festivals and Events Association, Michigan Cultural Coalition, and city of Birmingham Historic District Study Committee.
Nancy has worked for Oakland County Economic Developlment Services, as a Senior Financial Analyst and Policy Analyst for the Ontario Ministry of Housing as well as a Market Analyst for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. She received her formal training as an Urban Geographer in Canada at York University and the University of Toronto.
Board of Directors
Shawn Pomaville-Size, Executive Director, Motorcities National Heritage Area
MotorCities National Heritage Area an affiliate of the National Park Service.
For the past five years, Shawn has been the Executive Director of the MotorCities National Heritage Area, an affiliate of the National Park Service dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and promoting the automotive and labor heritage of the State of Michigan. As a native Michigander, Shawn shares the internationally important and inspiring story of the impact that the automotive industry has had on our economy and our society.
Shawn returned to her home state after 15 years at the helm of Nevada Volunteers, the Governor’s Commission on Service and AmeriCorps in Reno, Nevada. As the founding Executive Director at Nevada Volunteers, and along with a governor-appointed board of directors, Shawn helped strengthen both the volunteer and non-profit sectors in Nevada.
She has served on the boards of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, the Association of State Service Commissions and the Alliance of National Heritage Areas.
Graduating cum laude from Eastern Michigan University where she attended on an Acting scholarship, Shawn has built a career in nonprofit management with a specific expertise in federal government grants and community-based partnerships. She currently volunteers her time as a board member of The Champions of Wayne, a mentoring program at her high school alma mater in Wayne Michigan. She and her husband Earl are proud parents of five adult children and two grandsons.
Shawn Pomaville-Size
Executive Director
Phone: (313) 259-3425 ext: 301
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Michael Bauman, Stantec
Michael Bauman is a creative detail-oriented professional who has worked 30+ years in the architecture and construction industry. His professional experience includes all phases of project development: conceptual planning, estimating, scheduling, architecture/engineering management, construction management and complete program management. Currently, Michael works for Stantec, a global Architectural/Engineering and Built Environment Services firm. Michael’s focus is on educational and major commercial projects.
Previously, Michael worked with Ford Land, the real estate arm of Ford Motor Company, responsible for the development and construction of Ford’s interests in the built environment including offices, manufacturing, and engineering/test facilities. Work for Ford Land included pre-construction for the Dearborn Campus Transformation, restoration of the Ford Engineering Laboratory (Built in 1923), restoration and modernization of the Henry Ford II World Center (Ford World Headquarters) and renovation, restoration, and construction of Ford facilities worldwide. Michael started his career with the Detroit based architecture firm Albert Kahn Associates, founded in 1895, best known for Ford’s Rouge Complex, Ford Engineering Laboratory, General Motors Headquarters, the Fisher Building and numerous education and public buildings. Michael’s experience includes time with Walbridge (Construction Manager) and AVL (Anstalt fur Verbrennungkraftmaschinen List) leading the development of ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) and BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) related test facilities in North America.
Michael twice graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Art with concentrations in Art/Architectural History, Historic Preservation and Construction Management and a Master of Science in Industrial Technology during which he earned a certificate in Historic Preservation. While with Albert Kahn Associates Michael became an adjunct professor for a decade and is currently on the Construction Management Department’s Industry Advisory Council.
Michael is a lifelong resident of the Detroit metro area currently living in Grosse Pointe Woods with his wife, Mary Ann, their two boys (now residents of New York and Georgia) and two dogs with a small automobile collection that includes a 2023 Mach-E, 2003 Mustang GT Convertible and a 1975 Gran Torino his grandmother bought after retiring from Ford Motor Company.
Sabin Blake, General Motors
Sabin Blake of Ferndale, is Director, North American Business Communications for General Motors. Blake has been in the automotive industry for over 23 years with 20 of those spent at General Motors. His career at GM has offered him broad experiences serving in various roles in sales and marketing including stints as District Sales Manager, Field Operations Manager, Digital Marketing Manager, Regional Dealer Support Manager, Regional Dealer Organizational Manager, Marketing Manager for the Cadillac ELR and ATS Sedans and Coupe, Corporate Giving and most recently Communications where he leads Business and Heritage Operations for GM. He also spent 3 years in Stuttgart, Germany working in Corporate Communications for Mercedes Benz.
Blake is passionate about community service and giving back. He serves on the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan LGBTQ-focused HOPE Fund Advisory Committee. He also volunteers with other community-based organizations focusing on hunger, community development and education. He is currently serving on the Board of Directors for the Ruth Ellis Center and as a board member of GMPLUS, the GM LGBTQ Employee Resource Group where he serves as the Community Outreach Chair. He has been able to extend his passion for philanthropy to his career by creating GM's community involvement group -- teamGM Cares -- where he's working to engage employees in community involvement and help make it easier to get employees active in their local communities. In his current role he leads a team of corporate archivists who are charged with preserving GM’s rich heritage.
Blake received a Master’s in Business Administration Degree from the Broad School of Business at Michigan State University. He also studied Management with a concentration in Marketing earning a Bachelor of Science Degree from Kettering University (formerly GMI Engineering & Management Institute) in Flint, MI.
Harriet Carter, Visit Detroit
Harriet Carter is Vice President, Customer and Partner Services for Visit Detroit (formerly the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau). She is responsible for working with partners to develop programs and strategic initiatives that enhance convention experiences in metro Detroit.
Her current role is critical to maintaining and improving relationships with customers and enhancing the visibility of Visit Detroit within the hospitality community.
She continues to oversee the operations of the convention, visitors, and partner services, as well as significant events like the ROSE Awards (Recognition of Service of Excellence) and the Visit Detroit Annual Meeting.
Carter began her career with the DMCVB in 1989 when she hired as an Account Executive for the Sales department. In 1999, she was promoted to the Director of Bureau Services, where she dealt closely with the membership and convention department, and all groups confirmed to host their meeting in metro Detroit.
She has been featured in several national and local publications, including Meetings & Convention magazine, Convene magazine, Meetings Michigan, Black Meetings & Tourism Magazine, North Star Meetings group, and “Who’s Who in the travel Industry” Dollars and Sense magazine.
Carter holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations with a minor in Business Administration from Michigan State University. She has earned two professional certification designations, (CMP) Certified Meeting Planner and (CHSP) Certified Hospitality Sales Professional. She's a member of the Event Services Association (ESPA), Event Industry Council, board member of Women in Leadership Detroit and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.
Ed Clemente, MEDC
Edward Clemente is currently a Senior Advisor for Trends and Development with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. He has garnered many experiences as a State Representative including task forces on electric vehicles, bio-sciences, film industry, brownfields, economic development, quality of life and advanced energy. Ed has also served as an elected college trustee and the president of a chamber of commerce.
Ed was awarded a fellowship to the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government and the National Judicial College for Administrative Law. He is a graduate of Leadership Detroit, the Michigan Political Leadership Program and Leadership 21. He also has experience as a small business owner and taught at Northwood University.
Ed is currently active with the Global Ties Detroit Board. He hosts a podcast and is a member of the workforce advisors for Wayne County Community College.
A first generation American, Ed played college football and international amateur rugby and is currently on the MSU Alumni Rugby Board. He has visited over 66 countries and UNESCO sites on 6 continents.
Paul Corbett, MICHauto
Paul Corbett serves as Director of Government and Community Affairs for MICHauto, an initiative of the Detroit Regional Chamber focused on retaining, protecting, and growing the state's automotive and mobility industry. In this role, Corbett leads all Michauto outreach to legislators at the state and federal levels and coordinates direct advocacy activities between policymakers and the industry.
Prior to joining Michauto in November 2021, Corbett served as a Senior Policy Analyst in the office of Detroit City Councilmember Roy McCalister. In 2019, while earning a Master of Public Administration from Wayne State University, he worked for the City of Harper Woods as the Michigan Municipal Executives Fellow.
Russell Doré, Dore Productions
Russell Doré is a historical speaker who has been developing presentations for over 20 years. His programs include the following one-hour sessions with accompanying visuals: Henry Ford: His Company and His Life; Billy Durant: Founder of General Motors; Walter Chrysler: His Company and His Life; Studebaker, Packard, Nash and Hudson: How They Started and Where They Went; The Dodge Brothers: Their Company and Their Lives; America’s Classiest Cars: Auburn, Cord, Duesenberg, & Stutz, and The Wright Brothers, Bill Boeing & Donald Douglas: They Put America in the Air.
Doré Productions also offers the following interactive programs featuring actors who portray historical characters as they interact with the audience: The Big Three in 1925: Henry Ford, Walter Chrysler and Billy Durant; Henry and Friends: Henry Ford, Thomas Edison and Harvey Firestone. Individual interactive presentations are also available featuring one of the following: Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, or Billy Durant. These productions are all authentic, but are done with a keen sense of humor.
Russ is a member of the Stewardship Council of the Motor Cities National Heritage Area, a past board member of the Henry Ford Heritage Association and a member of the Northville Historical Society. He holds Bachelors, Masters and Doctoral degrees in social sciences from Michigan State University and the University of Washington.
Margaret Hehr, photographer
Margaret has served as the publicity chairman for the symphony guild. She’s chaired numerous committees to raise funds to support and sustain music in the schools. She has produced and directed numerous fashion shows and commercial events for Wal-Mart, Tyson Foods, Mattel and Kenner Toys, the Miami Fashion Group, R.E. Olds Museum, and the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce and the MSU Alumni association to list a few.
As an instructor Margaret has taught ‘The business of Fashion and Promotion’ at the junior college level and as guest instructor at the University of Arkansas.
She has over 20 years experience photographing classic cars and hot rods, and the people that build them.
Sue Huggett, Gilmore Car Museum
Sue Huggett is the Director of Development and Membership at the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, Michigan. In her current role, she leads fundraising, membership development and outreach.
Previously, Huggett spent six years as Director of Events for the Kalamazoo Downtown Partnership after working nine years at the YMCA of Lansing, the final two as Associate Executive Director. She also served in the United States Navy during Operation Desert Storm as a Medical Corpsman.
She has a B.A. in Communications from Michigan State University.
Cynthia Jones, The Henry Ford
Cynthia Jones is the General Manager, Innovation Experiences for The Henry Ford in Dearborn. In her current role, Jones is a change agent and leader for multiple venues, programs and teams, including the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Ford Rouge Factory Tour and exhibitions team.
Jones began her career at The Henry Ford in 2000 as a master presenter and onsite coordinator and has served in a variety of leadership positions, mostly involving the Ford Rouge Factory Tour since 2003.
She has a B.A. degree in anthropology from Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti and is currently working on a Masters of Liberal Studies, American Culture and Technology from the same institution.
Gina Liburdi, UAW
Gina Liburdi is currently a Representative in the UAW National CAP Department for the UAW International Union in Detroit. She has served in the labor movement for over 20yrs in various capacities which include, union organizing, member training and advocacy, and she is currently working in the UAW political action department. She has a B.A. degree in Family and Community Services from Michigan State University. She also has a 10-year-old daughter Gianna, who keeps her on her toes and is the joy of her life.
Nick Nerbonne, Travel Michigan
- Nick Nerbonne is Media, Digital and Industry Relations Director for Travel Michigan in Lansing. Throughout more than 20 years of digital marketing and public relations experience, Nerbonne has represented brands and organizations in television news, tourism and hospitality, network services, consumer products, and economic development, among others. In his current position, he leads Travel Michigan’s communications and digital media efforts, and works with the travel industry to share stories highlighting the outdoor recreation, natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture found in communities and destinations across Michigan’s two peninsulas.
Don Nicholson, Don Nicholson Enterprises
Don Nicholson started Don Nicholson Enterprises LLC in 2007 organizing Charity Car shows and the Michigan Ave. Cruise. DNE has now grown to two major community cruises, multiple charity car shows with graphic design and in-house publishing / printing services.
Don started doing charity car shows while managing photo labs in 1993. He also held multiple positions at Milan Dragway, including marketing, promotions and photography from 1992 to 1998. He still does promotions for Milan Dragway with DNE.
Don even raced cars a race tracks around the area including Detroit Dragway and Milan Dragway from 1984 to 1999.
He has participated in the Detroit or Winnipeg Autorama every year since 1967.
Stewardship Council and Ambassador of MotorCities N.H.A.
Past Marketing Administrator Model T Complex
Member of multiple Chambers of Commerce.
Past Board Member Dearborn Heights Chamber of Commerce.
Present Board Member Wayne Chamber of Commerce
Present Board member of Friends of Nankin Mills
Present Board Member (Treasurer) Community Living Services (For people with disabilities)
Member Westland Historical Society
Job History past Department head V.P. for 3M Company in Photofinishing 1975 to 1983.
Photo lab owner / manager from 1983 to 2007
Lover of Classic Cars, History and photography since I can remember. Lives with his High School Sweetheart Gayle in Westland and has two stepdaughters Claire (Washington D.C.) and Anne (Seattle Washington)
Anindita (Anne) Partington, University of Michigan
Anindita (Anne) Partington is Managing Director of the Tauber Institute for Global Operations at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Previously, she was Director of the Advanced Transportation Commercialization Hub at U-M.
From 2019 to 2021, Partington was Director of Entrepreneurial Services and DEI Lead for Ann Arbor SPARK. She also has more than 20 years experience in the automotive industry at Stellantis and General Motors
Julie Pingston, Choose Lansing
Julie Pingston, CDME, CMP, CTA is the President & CEO of Choose Lansing (formerly the Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau). She has been with the organization for 30 years and became CEO in March 2020.
The region typically welcomes over 5.3 million visitors annually generating over $682 million to the local economy. The GLCVB promotes to meeting and sporting event planners as well as to all types of travelers seeking to experience the diverse opportunities our community offers.
Julie leads the team at the GLCVB toward the vision of inspiring everyone to love Greater Lansing as much as we do. She serves on many local community boards and is a graduate of Alma College.
Amber Taylor, Back to the Bricks
Amber Taylor
Executive Director
Back to the Bricks, Flint, Michigan
Amber Taylor has been Executive Director of Back to the Bricks since December 2019.
She is a single mom that has a passion for sharing in exciting and memorable experiences. If it’s something that will scare you, or give you a thrill, she's probably done it, or it’s on her bucket list to do. Taylor rides a Harley, has a 1981 Ford Truck lifted and loves vehicles and seeing them on display. That makes her a perfect fit for the position she's blessed to have with Back to the Bricks®.
Taylor's background is in marketing, sales, advertising, retail management, and construction. Her favorite experiences which are not only meaningful but helped to propel her to where she is now, include working with non-profit organization events in the Flint area such as Whaley Children’s Center, Hurley Foundation and supporting local charities through events like 5k and 8k runs! She is a proud Certified Tourism Ambassador and facilitator for Genesee County through the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau. She is the Past President of the Flint Women’s Forum and is now Communications Chair. She was proud to spearhead the first female statue in the Automobile Heritage Collection, Rosie the Riveter that is proudly on display at Flint Bishop International Airport.
Current Roles:
- Executive Director of Back to the Bricks®
- Flint Women's Forum Past President, and current Communications Chair
- Grand Blanc Chamber Board of Director
- Grand Blanc Chamber of Commerce Ambassador and Ambassador Chairman
- Certified Tourism Ambassador and Facilitator with the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Genesee County
- Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce Ambassador
- Very engaged in the community to include volunteering with Whaley Children’s Center, the Hurley Foundation, The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan and is currently Fundraising to go “Over the Edge” with the Disability Network.
Christopher Topham, Stellantis
Christopher Topham started with Chrysler Corporation in March 1996 as a Contract employee in the Product Design Office as scheduling support. He was hired direct in March 1998 as a Planning Analyst in Studio #1, responsible for small car development. Christopher worked in the Advanced, Ram, Jeep and Large Car studios supporting programs such as the 300C, Magnum, Challenger, Charger and Crossfire prior to being promoted to Sr. Manager, Design Program Planning in 2002. As a Sr. Manager, Christopher has increased responsibility and diversified the role as the Automotive Industry and Chrysler have changed from DaimlerChrysler, Chrysler Group, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and now Stellantis. He currently holds the position of Head of Operations and Physical Modeling for Stellantis Design North America. The position includes responsibility for Studio Planning, Budget and Procurement, Dome Shows and Exhibits, Clay Modeling, Milling, Fabrication, Concept Vehicles and Historical Services, including Conner Center.
Christopher holds a BBA from Northwood University and a MBA from Walsh College.
Mike Twomley, DTE
Mike Twomley is plant manager of DTE Energy's Monroe Power Plant. He grew up in Flushing Michigan, just outside of Flint.
Twomley kicked off his professional career at 17, doing CAD work for GM as a high school co-op. He completed his degree in mechanical engineering at the General Motors Institute, now known as Kettering University. After graduation, Twomley began a 20-year career in the automotive industry, gaining a comprehensive knowledge of both the product development and manufacturing sides of the business in a variety of roles within the "Big Three" and several Tier One suppliers.
In 2008, Twomley accepted a position with DTE Energy and currently serves as Plant Manger of their Monroe Power Plant. He feels proud and excited to be a part of the MotorCities Team and looks forward to promoting and preserving Michigan's rich automotive history.
Leadership Council
Chair, Honarable Deborah I. Dingell, U.S. House of Representatives
Debbie Dingell was elected U.S. Representative to Congress from Michigan’s 12th District in November 2014. Her election marks the second time voters have elected her to office, the first was in 2006 when she was elected to an eight-year term on the Wayne State University (WSU) Board of Governors.
An active civic and community leader, Debbie is a recognized national advocate for women and children.
For more than 30 years Debbie served one of Michigan’s largest employers, the General Motors (GM) Corporation, where she was President of the GM Foundation and a senior executive responsible for public affairs. In her commitment to job creation, Debbie recently led the effort to bring the 10,000 Small Businesses initiative, a $20 million partnership designed to help create jobs and economic growth, to southeast Michigan. She is a past chair of the Manufacturing Initiative at the American Automotive Policy Council.
With values instilled by her Catholic education, Debbie’s activism took root in her passion for issues important to women and children. She successfully fought to have women included in federally-funded health research, and advocated for greater awareness of issues directly related to women’s health, including breast cancer and women's heart health. She is a founder and past chair of the National Women’s Health Resource Center and the Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). She has served on numerous boards related to women’s issues including the advisory boards for the NIH Panel for Women’s Research, the Michigan Women's Economic Club, the Susan B. Komen Foundation, and the board of the Michigan Women’s Foundation. She was a co-founder of both the first Race for the Cures in Michigan and in Washington, D.C.
Debbie has led a number of efforts and initiatives related to young people and education stemming from her role as a WSU Governor and co-chair of the Children's Leadership Council, a business-led advocacy group that promotes investment in early childhood education. She chaired the Michigan Infant Mortality Task Force, the Baby Your Baby public education campaign that reduced infant mortality rates in Michigan, and has served on the board of Michigan’s Children, the only statewide independent voice working to ensure that public policies are made in the best interest of children from cradle to career. She was appointed by Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm to serve on the Early Childhood Investment Corporation and the Cherry Commission on Higher Education and Economic Growth.
Debbie is a member of the Democratic National Committee and has chaired numerous political campaigns. Much of her recent work has been focused on ethical issues and social responsibility as they relate to government and business. She co-chaired One United Michigan, which sought to preserve and support programs that ensure equal opportunity in Michigan. She chairs the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition, a statewide organization that brings business, labor and government together to find commonality on issues. She continues to serve on the Parade Company board of directors of which she is past chair, where she helped save America’s Thanksgiving Parade, an important Detroit tradition. A known “bridge-builder,” she continues to promote and lead efforts toward greater understanding among people of differing points of views and backgrounds.
Debbie is a respected voice in Michigan. She co-hosted Detroit Public Television’s “Am I Right,” regularly served as a panelist on “Flashpoint,” a public affairs program on WDIV-TV4 Detroit, and was named one of the 100 Most Influential Women in Michigan by Crain’s Detroit Business.
Debbie resides in Dearborn. She holds both a B.S.F.S. in Foreign Services and an M.S. in Liberal Studies from Georgetown University.
Rod Alberts, Executive Director, North American International Auto Show
Rod Alberts is executive director of the Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA), an organization that represents more than 221 domestic and import new car and truck dealers in Southeast Michigan. Alberts is also executive director of the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).
In addition to his duties at the DADA, Alberts is a member of the Executive Committee of the Metro Detroit Visitors and Convention Bureau; serves on the Board of Directors for The Parade Company; serves on the Steering Committee of the Harold E. LeMay Museum; serves on the Detroit Regional Chamber's Mackinac Policy Conference Committee; served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn, Michigan (2005-2006); and in 2002, served as President of the Automotive Trade Association Executives (ATAE), an affiliation of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA).
Rod Alberts
Executive Director
Detroit Auto Dealers Association
Executive Director
North American International Auto Show
Larry Alexander, Former President & CEO, Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau
Larry Alexander, recently retired President and CEO of the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau (DMCVB) and a 30-year veteran of the hospitality and tourism industry, transformed the Bureau into the leading organization responsible for facilitating tourism economic development in Metro Detroit. He led an innovative, multi-award winning convention sales, marketing and convention services effort that has often exceeded CVB industry standards for its performance in its 108-year history.
Alexander navigated the efforts to land some of the world’s most coveted sporting events, including Super Bowl XL in 2006 and the 2009 NCAA Men's Final Four. He also created and leads the Detroit Metro Sports Commission, a subsidiary of the Bureau responsible for landing the 2003 and 2008 AAU Junior Olympic Games, the 2008 Women’s International Bowling Congress, and contributing to the successful bid for the 2005 MLB All Star Game.
Alexander is a board member of The Parade Company, the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, the Michigan Kidney Foundation New Detroit and Autism Society of America - Oakland County Chapter. He is also a member of the International Association of Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Steve Bieda
Steve Bieda is a lifelong resident of Macomb County. Raised in Warren, he attended Cousino High School, received his bachelor’s degree and Masters of Public Administration from Wayne State University, and later earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law as well as a Masters of Tax Law from Wayne State University Law School.
Elected State Representative for Michigan’s 25th District in 2002, Steve got right to work for the people of Macomb County and Michigan. His public service continued in the State Senate, being elected to serve the 9th District representing Macomb County in 2010 and again in 2014. He sponsored over thirty Public Acts on subjects ranging from the state’s tax structure, consumer protection, economic development and judicial reform. He authored the Legal Defense Fund Reporting act, the only major piece of ethics reform to reach the Governor’s desk in a decade, and fought for it over several legislative sessions until it became law. Steve supported comprehensive revisions to Michigan’s bottle deposit law to stop the flow of fraudulent containers from out of state, saving Michigan millions of dollars. Not one to shrink from a challenge, Steve was a driving force behind the replacement for the out of date Single Business Tax, replacing it with legislation that provided tax credits and incentives for businesses to grow and invest in Michigan while maintaining the flow of needed revenue. His expertise in financial management resulted in his appointment to the financial management review teams for the cities of Ecorse and River Rouge. Working closely with members of the legislative and executive branch, including the State Treasurer and the Governor, Steve’s record reflects the consistent pursuit of cleaner government, a cleaner environment and a stronger economy for the state of Michigan.
Prior to his service in the State Legislature, Steve Bieda worked as Director of Labor Relations in the City of Warren and Senior Policy Analyst for Michigan’s House of Representatives. Steve also enjoys the distinction of being the only living Michiganian to design a coin for the U.S. Mint, the reverse of the United States Olympic Half Dollar issued in 1992. Steve was Chairman for the Thomas Edison Silver Dollar Project, commemorating the 125th anniversary of the invention of the light bulb. In addition, Steve had the honor of acting as fundraiser and grant-writer for the Michigan Labor Legacy Project. This resulted in the largest monument commemorating the labor movement in the United States: “Transcending”, which can be seen on the Detroit riverfront in Hart Plaza.
Robert A. Bury, President & CEO, Fair Lane, Home of Clara and Henry Ford
Bury, 65, led the Detroit Historical Society as executive director and CEO for 16 years before stepping down in June 2018.
Under his leadership, the society took on operational responsibility of the Detroit Historical Museum, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum and the Collections Resource Center from the City of Detroit, which had run the entities since the late 1940s.
He also led a successful $21.2 million comprehensive campaign and numerous other initiatives including Detroit 67: Looking Back to Move Forward, which included an exhibition and digital archive that went on to win the 2018 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation's highest honor given to libraries and museums for making significant contributions to their communities.
Fair Lane continues the massive undertaking of restoring and reimagining Henry and Clara Ford's family home and estate.The ongoing restoration involves fine detailed work by world class artisans and specialists as well as major upgrades to the estate's infrastructure. The project is being funded through a $50 million campaign.
Prior to coming to the Society, Bury was the senior vice-president and chief operating officer at the Detroit Science Center. At the Science Center, Bury worked closely with the board of trustees, government, business and community leaders to raise nearly $30 million to expand and renovate the facility.
Bury joined the Science Center after nearly 22 years in marketing, sales, public relations and external affairs at SBC Ameritech (now AT&T). He is active in the community and is currently a member of the Rotary Club of Grosse Pointe, and serves on the board of the Dominican Literacy Center, the University Cultural Center Association, and the Grosse Pointe Foundation for Public Education. He holds a bachelor of science degree in economics and management from Oakland University and a masters in Information Technology Management from Michigan State University. Bury resides in Grosse Pointe Park with his wife Mary Ann and daughter Meredith.
Matthew P. Cullen, President and COO of Rock Enterprises, Quicken Loans
Matthew P. Cullen is president and chief operating officer of Rock Ventures LLC, an umbrella entity formed to provide operational coordination, guidance, and integration to Quicken Loans and Dan Gilbert’s portfolio of companies and investments.
Cullen is a 29-year veteran of General Motors (GM) where he was general manager of economic development and enterprise services. Cullen was chief architect of GM’s $500 million acquisition and development of the Renaissance Center as the automaker’s global headquarters. In that role, he also oversaw the billion dollar redevelopment of the city's international riverfront and became the founding chairman of the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy.
In addition, Cullen is the chairman of Invest Detroit; vice chairman of the Downtown Detroit Partnership; serves on the executive committees for Mosaic Youth Theater and the University of Detroit Mercy; and is a Hudson-Webber Foundation board member. He has previously chaired the Metropolitan Detroit Convention and Visitors Bureau, The Parade Company and the Metropolitan Detroit YMCA, and retains current executive committee membership with all three organizations.
Cullen earned a degree in economics from the University of Michigan and an MBA from the University of Detroit Mercy. He also completed the Senior Executive Program at Harvard University.
Matthew P. Cullen
President & COO
Rock Ventures LLC
William C. Ford Jr., Executive Chairman, Ford Motor Company
Executive Chairman William Clay Ford, Jr., is leading the company that put the world on wheels into the 21st century.
Mr. Ford joined the Board of Directors in 1988 and has been its chairman since January 1999. He serves as chairman of the board’s Finance Committee and as a member of the Environmental and Public Policy Committee. He also served as chief executive officer of the company from October 2001 to September 2006, when he was named executive chairman.
As CEO, Mr. Ford improved quality, lowered costs and delivered exciting new products to customers. During his time in that position he took the company from a $5.5 billion loss in 2001 to three straight years of profitability. Through the years, his vision for the company has remained unchanged.
Mr. Ford’s charitable, volunteer and business efforts are highlighted by his commitment to the city of Detroit. Mr. Ford is Chairman of the Board of the Detroit Economic Club (DEC) and a co-chair of The National Summit convened by the DEC in June 2009. He also is a member of the Board of Trustees of The Henry Ford, the Board of Directors of eBay Inc. and Business Leaders for Michigan, where he also serves as Vice Chair.
William Clay Ford Jr.
Executive Chairman
Ford Motor Company
Steven K. Hamp, Hamp Advisors
Steven K. Hamp served as Chief of Staff at Ford Motor Co. from December 1, 2005 to October 31, 2006 and also served as it’s Vice President since December 1, 2005. where Mr. Hamp focused on strategic issues, alignment of senior leadership, and integration of strategy in it's operations. Mr. Hamp served as President of The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village in Dearborn, Michigan. He joins Ford after a 27-year career at The Henry Ford, during which he rose to served as the historical institution’s president. Under his leadership, The Henry Ford’s operating structure was fundamentally revised and expanded to include the establishment of the Henry Ford Academy, a public high school; the Rouge Factory Tour, Michigan’s only auto assembly plant tour open to the public; and other new user experiences and services, such as an IMAX theatre. Mr. Hamp served as Director of Visteon Corp. from March 1, 2008 to October 2010. Mr. Hamp serves as Director of Downtown Detroit Partnership. Previously, Mr. Hamp served as a Director of Visteon Corporation from January 2001 to November 2005. Mr. Hamp also led the largest capital campaign in the museum's history. In 1999, The Detroit News recognized Mr. Hamp as a Michiganian of the Year. In 2000, he was honored as the first recipient of the Helen and William Milliken Distinguished Service Award by the Michigan Environmental Council. And in 2002, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from the University of Michigan and the Civic Leader Award from the Governor’s Arts Awards. Mr. Hamp has a Bachelors degree from Butler University, and Masters degree from Indiana University and the University of Michigan.Steven K. Hamp
Company Principle
Hamp Advisors
Faye Nelson, Director of Michigan Programs, W.K. Kellogg Foundation
Faye Nelson joined the W.K. Kellogg Foundation as Director of Michigan Programs in 2018. In this role, Nelson provides leadership and oversight of the foundation’s investments in Michigan to create conditions that ensure children have opportunities to thrive in equitable communities. Nelson, who works in WKKF’s Detroit office, leads the foundation’s statewide grantmaking priorities, in collaboration and partnership with grantees, communities, and other stakeholders throughout the region.
Most recently, Nelson served as the 2017-2018 Sojourner Truth Fellow at the University of Michigan Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning. Using the transformation of the Detroit riverfront as a case study, Nelson and graduate students – from both Taubman College and the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy – examined, over the course of thirteen weeks, the catalytic impact of placemaking and public space development in urban communities like Detroit.
Previously, Nelson was vice president of DTE Energy, and president and board chair of the DTE Energy Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the company. During her tenure, Nelson co-led the restructuring of the foundation and oversaw its annual grantmaking to over 400 nonprofits throughout the state of Michigan.
Prior to her role at DTE Energy, Nelson served as the inaugural president and CEO of the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy and led the restoration of the Detroit riverfront. During Nelson’s ten-year tenure, she oversaw the public-private partnership transformation of the abandoned industrial waterfront into a vibrant public space of more than 3.5 miles of parks, plazas, pavilions, and pathways. To date, the riverfront receives more than three million annual visitors and has generated more than $1 billion in public and private investment.
Nelson is actively involved in her community and has more than 20 years of board service experience – 14 of which were with Compuware Corporation. Currently, she serves on the board of several Detroit area organizations, including the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the Henry Ford Health System and Health Network.
Nelson is the recipient of numerous awards, including Crain’s Detroit Business 100 Most Influential Women in Michigan Award in 2016, the Walsh College Jeffery Barry Education Excellence & Community Service Award, the Damon J. Keith 24th Annual Soul and Spirit Humanitarian Award, the Grio’s 100 African American History Makers presented by NBC News, and the Milliken Distinguished Service Award from the Michigan Environmental Council.
Nelson earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Mercy College of Detroit and a law degree from the University of Detroit School of Law. She is a member of the State Bar of Michigan and a life member of the Sixth Circuit Judicial Conference.