Northwest Michigan Workforce Leaders Receive Statewide Recognition

 

Three northwest Michigan workforce leaders received special recognition at the annual Michigan Works! Association Conference held in Mount Pleasant.

 

Workforce Development Board Chairman Dave Adams received the Volunteer of the Year award. Dave has been a Workforce Development Board member since 1981 and Chair since 1986. He was recognized for being a consistently strong voice for Michigan Works, and always supporting the mission and advocating for the key role played by the private sector.

 

Networks Northwest CEO Elaine Wood received the Ralph Loeschner Outstanding Service Award. Elaine was recognized for being a staunch supporter and promoter of the Michigan Works! system throughout her four decade career in talent and workforce development, and for being a shining example of leadership in the Michigan Works! system.

 

Beaver Island Lighthouse School Site Supervisor Steve Finch received the Impact Award, given to a staff member for exceptional positive impact on clients. Steve has been the Site Supervisor for the Lighthouse School since 2008. During that time over 60 youth who would not have otherwise graduated in a traditional high school setting earned their high school diplomas, largely due to his efforts. Steve believes that education is not just about knowledge but about creating exceptional, productive citizens that contribute to Michigan’s community and workforce.

 

Dave Adams, Volunteer of the Year		Elaine Wood, Ralph Loeschner Outstanding Service Award		Steve Finch, Impact Award
Luann Dunsford, CEO, Michigan Works! Association; Dave Adams; Charlotte Mahoney, Michigan Works! Association Board Chair		Luann Dunsford, CEO, Michigan Works! Association; Elaine Wood; Charlotte Mahoney, Michigan Works! Association Board Chair		Steve has been the Site Supervisor for the Beaver Island Lighthouse School since 2008; he helped more than 60 youth obtain their high school diplomas.