09/26/2023
Panel for tonight's Meeting.
Amy Hovey is the Executive Director of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), becoming the first woman in its 56-year history to lead the agency. She has a diverse background in housing, finance, government, philanthropy, and the private sector. Amy has worked in roles ranging from banking to CEO of the Center for Community Progress in Washington, D.C. She founded the Protogenia Group, a consulting firm, and served as a district chief of staff for Congressman Dan Kildee (D-Michigan). Amy holds a bachelor's degree in business administration and psychology from Alma College and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Michigan-Flint’s Rackham Graduate Program. She currently lives in Dewitt with her husband and four children.
Rod DesJardins is the SOAR Regional Navigator with the MDHHS Housing and Homeless Assistance Division, serving northern and Upper Michigan. He has extensive experience in housing and community development, having previously worked as the Housing Director for Community Action Alger-Marquette. In this role, he played a crucial part in the development of Grandview Marquette, a project featuring 56 units of affordable housing. Rod also brings 20 years of experience as the former Mayor of Munising, where he worked on various community development initiatives. Currently, he is involved with Renovare Development, overseeing a 38-unit workforce housing project in his community. This project is funded through a combination of resources, including support from MSHDA, MEDC, and Brownfield Redevelopment funding
Jim is the part-time Director of Economic Development for the Village of Roscommon and chairs the Roscommon County Housing Task Force. With 30 years of experience, he taught marketing and economics at Roscommon Area Public Schools while also coaching baseball and quiz bowl. Jim holds a finance degree from MSU and an education degree from Ferris State University. He completed an MBA at Central Michigan University in 2002. Jim resides in Roscommon with his wife, Carrie, a retired 911 dispatcher.
Charles Wiltse is a first-term Ogemaw County Commissioner and co-owner of The Cedar Tavern and Grill in Lupton. He is actively involved in organizations like the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association and the Midwest International Racing Association, where he serves as Vice President. Charles also founded MIRA Race Network.
His passion for housing started with Better Places To Live, LLC, a company he co-founded after graduating from Michigan State University. Charles has remodeled numerous single-family and multi-unit homes in Lansing's downtown area. He is a dedicated father to two daughters and resides near Prescott, MI. Additionally, he operates Wiltse Property Management, a State-licensed builder company, in Lupton.
Lisa Miller is the Engagement and Outreach Specialist at the Michigan Office of Rural Development, where she connects rural communities with resources to advance their priorities. With over 20 years of experience, she has fostered innovative programs and partnerships in community, economic, and workforce development. Lisa holds degrees from Alma College and Grand Valley State University and resides on the edge of the Manistee National Forest, enjoying the beauty of rural Michigan's four seasons.
Rachel's impressive career spans over 23 years, encompassing roles in community and economic development, grant writing and management, and public policy dialogue. Rachel Smolinski, City Manager for the City of Alpena since December 2019, brings extensive experience in municipal management, regional and land use planning, environmental management, and community development. She holds a Master of Science in Public Administration from Central Michigan University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Aquatic Biology from Purdue University.
Karin Beyer, currently the Director of Community Philanthropy at the Otsego Community Foundation, brings a wealth of experience to her role. The Otsego Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization, operates with a mission to amplify generosity and impact by collaborating with donors, nonprofits, and communities. Her extensive involvement includes serving on the board of the Rotary Club of Ga***rd, acting as a trustee for the Zonta Club of Ga***rd, mentoring for Leadership Otsego County via the Ga***rd Chamber of Commerce, and representing adults on the RISE: Otsego Substance Free Coalition.
Mike Erickson, regional president of MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena since June 2022, brings a wealth of experience to the healthcare sector. Previously, he served as system vice president professional services at MyMichigan Health and joined the organization in 2008. His healthcare journey includes a significant tenure with Catholic Health Initiatives, where he held various roles, including assistant vice president at St. Joseph Medical Center in Towson, Maryland.
Mike holds advanced degrees, including a Master of Science in Technology Management, a Master of Business Administration, and a Bachelor of Science in Management Studies, all earned from the University of Maryland University College.
