DEIB Committee Positioning Statement
The following DE&I position provides direction for all Traverse Connect efforts:
- Traverse Connect champions diversity, equity, and inclusion with an intentional approach to inform people, policies, and practices that strengthen access and opportunity in the business and non-profit community across the region.
- We recognize that data and evidence show a competitive advantage for businesses and communities that demonstrate the values associated with a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment including increased profitability, thriving commerce, and a more engaged workforce.
- We are committed to providing leadership and resources to help area businesses successfully integrate DE&I practices into their business and community strategies.
- We acknowledge that barriers exist and commit to an active pursuit of inclusion, including with limit: race, gender identity, age, religious beliefs, physical/mental ability, nation of origin, veteran status, color, ethnicity, sexual orientation, marital status, socioeconomic class, and/or criminal history.
DEIB COMMITTEE

Pam Amundsen
Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

Nick Beadleston
Commonplace

Michael Brown
Burdco Incorporated

Warren Call
Traverse Connect

Katherine DeGood
Traverse Connect

Rick Ellery
Sara Lee Frozen Bakery

Mary Garcia
Hagerty

Carol Greilick
Northwest Education Services

Carla Gribbs
Retired, DTE

Valarie Handy
Handy Enterprises LLC

Tya Harrison
Lake Ann Barnwood

Camille Hoisington
Traverse Connect

Ellie Hudson
Independent Consultant

Molly MacGirr
Traverse Connect

Jillian Manning
Writer & Editor

Matthew McClellan
Grand Traverse Resort & Spa

Tifini McClyde-Blythe
Interlochen Center for the Arts

Liz Petrella McKellar
Traverse Connect

Brenda McLellan
Traverse Connect

Connor Miller
Aspire North REALTORS

Shannon Owen
Grand Valley State University

Mandy Sentieri
Traverse Connect

Ginger Smith
TCAPS

Trevor Tkach
Traverse City Tourism

Henry Wolf
Traverse Connect
*APPLICATIONS ARE CLOSED AT THIS TIME AS THE COMMITTEE IS FULL
The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Committee works to understand the challenges our community faces, is committed to educating ourselves of the current state of diversity and inclusion in our community and state, we inspire and challenge all and we connect to bring those together for sustainable change. The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Committee is leading the community through change by producing a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Summit that is sustainable and meaningful to all aspects of our community.