Guest Speakers: Lobbyists
Alden, Carl
Carl H. Alden is the Insurance/Operations Director for the Michigan Chiropractic Society, Michigan's professional association of Chiropractors with over 1,200 members. Carl has been with the MCS for 7 years and his duties include: assisting MCS members with insurance and practice management issues, and dealing with MCS budget oversights and government relations. Before coming to the MCS, Carl consulted on grass roots lobbying and consumer issues. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Public Affairs Management from Michigan State University in 1978.
800-722-1513
Baran, Greg
Greg Baran, R.Ph, M.A, is the Director of Governmental Affairs at the Michigan Pharmacists Association. He is a licensed pharmacist and a graduate of Ferris State University and Central Michigan University. His background includes initial practice in community pharmacy practice, both independent and chain pharmacy. The last twenty years have been spent in hospital practice, most recently as manager of pharmacy at a major medical institution in Grand Rapids. During his years of hospital practice, he was active in the Michigan Pharmacists Association, having served on the Professional and Legal Affairs Committee and the Board of Directors and finally as the Chairman of the Board for the hospital section.
(517) 377-0224
greg@michiganpharmacists.org
Bell, Regina
Regina Bell has been working in government affairs at Ameritech SBC for the past 3 years. Prior to joining the company, she spearheaded the implementation of a federal job access reverse commute grant which assisted work-first and welfare-to-work customers with transportation to employment areas. She also worked as a legislative assistant in Lansing for 7 years handling utility issues. Regina is a graduate of Michigan State University, James Madison College and sits on the James Madison College Alumni Board. She is a former fellow of the Michigan Political Leadership Program at MSU and sits on the MPLP Steering committee, along with being a member of the Greater Lansing Urban League Board and the Old Town Commercial Association Board.
517-334-3400
Chiddister, Max
Max Chiddister is involved in Government Relations at Bank One. His work centers on governmental relations in Michigan, Kentucky, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York. He is responsible for activities in those states by identifying opportunities to advance Bank One's interests on issues and with public officials. He is also responsible for maintaining Michigan's Political Action Committee (PAC)--federal, state and local. He oversees the distribution of PAC funds in the other states as well. A registered lobbyist in Michigan, he also does moderate lobbying at the federal level. From 1980 to 1988, Chiddister was the Mayor of Goshen City, Indiana. He's also been the President of the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns, a member of Indiana's State Hazardous Waste Siting Authority, and a member of Indiana's State Enterprise Zone Board.
(313) 225-3129
Cilluffo, Bill
After graduating from U of M, Bill obtained his law degree from Wayne State Law School and also holds the designations of Chartered Property & Casualty Underwriter and Chartered Life Underwriter. Bill has held many positions in his career including, Senate staffer, Executive Assistant to the Mayor of Detroit, Regional Government Affairs Executive for Chrysler Corporation and has been in his current position as the Assistant Vice President of Government Relations for the Auto Club Group for the last eleven years.
120 North Washington Square, Ste. 802
Lansing MI 48933-1617
517-487-5901
Crawford, Jim
Jim Crawford is a partner with Karoub Associates. He joined the firm in January 1994, bringing with him an impressive background in state and local government. The former Mayor of Lansing, Jim also worked as an Administrative Assistant in the Michigan State Senate for seven years. He is also a licensed Real Estate Broker.
517.482.5000
jcrawford@karoubassociates.com
Dansby, Bill
Bill Dansby has served as Executive Vice President of the Michigan Optometric Association for 35 years. Prior to service with the association, he was a television news director, editor and anchorman for 12 years with network- affiliated television stations in Jacksonville, FL and Lansing, MI. Mr. Dansby is the Certified Association Executive (C.A.E.) of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) and a retired Colonel from the U.S. Army Reserve system.
517-482-0616
Degrow, Mike
Mike DeGrow was hired into the Michigan House of Representatives in 1973, and in 1982 worked as Chief of Staff to a State Senator. In 1989, he worked as an association lobbyist for the Michigan Osteopathic Association, and in 1995 he created DeGrow & Associates. It is a governmental consulting and association management agency for a number of health care and business clients.
517-485-8000
Henrichs, Vernon
Vernon Henrichs is the Legislative Chairman for the American Legion in Michigan which means he is a volunteer lobbyist who contacts Senators and Representatives on behalf of the American Legion. He also testifies at Committee Hearings. He is a veteran of WWII having served 2 1/2 years in the Army; 13 months of which was in the European Theater of Operations. After returning from military service he taught school, pastored several churches and worked 11 years as a salesman.
517-371-4720
Hoekstra, Ellen
Ellen Hoekstra is co-owner of Capitol Services, Inc, a multi-client lobbying firm that she co-founded 18 years ago. The firm specializes in representing non-profit organizations and has over 30 clients. Prior to working as a governmental consultant, she taught writing and literature at Michigan State University and at Henry Ford Community College. Dr. Hoekstra holds a PhD and MA from MSU.
517-372-0860
Kuhnmuench, Nell
Nell Kuhnmuench served for eight years as Chief of Staff for two different Speakers of the Michigan House of Representatives. A former Michigan House Democratic staff member, Ms. Kuhnmuench worked primarily on tax and financial issues. Twice voted Lansing's most effective woman lobbyist, Ms. Kuhnmuench holds a BA in business administration from Michigan State University and a JD from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. She clerked for two years for a Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court.
Ms. Kuhnmuench now is Government Consulting Services Incorporated's specialist on environmental and insurance issues.
517-484-6216
McAlvey, Jeff
Jeff began a tenure lasting nearly 14 years with Governor John Engler, starting in 1984 when Engler began serving as Senate Majority leader. When he became Governor in 1991, Jeff assumed the role of the Governor's Director of Legislative Relations where he coordinated all of the activities of the Engler Administration in the Michigan Legislature. This included the development of the Governor's initiatives into legislation and the planning and execution of the strategies necessary to secure successful passage of that legislation. Major legislative accomplishments during Jeff's tenure as the Governor's Legislative Director included 24 tax cuts, welfare reform, the recodification of the Mental Health Code and the School Code, the privatization of the State Accident Fund, the authorization of Charter Schools and Schools of Choice, and Workers' Compensation reform. Jeff served in this capacity until May 1997, when he left the Governor's staff to begin McAlvey & Associates. Having worked extensively in both the Legislative and Executive branches of the state government, he is uniquely qualified to represent clients before state government and help them reach their goals as they relate to pending legislation, government regulation, and state procurement.
517-482-9299
McDonald-Stone, Kristen
Kristen McDonald-Stone currently serves as an FIA Federal Liaison and Policy Advisor. Prior to this position, she served as the Executive Director of the Michigan Head Start Association, the member agency of Head Start programs, staff and families in Michigan. In that role, she works to improve the lives of Head Start families by having a meaningful impact on state and federal policy. Ms. McDonald-Stone is the current Co-chair of the Michigan Child Care Task Force, an officer of the Executive Committee of the Michigan Coalition for Children and Families and an Executive Committee member of the Ready To Succeed Dialogue, the group spearheading the "Be their Hero from Age Zero" campaign. Ms. McDonald-Stone also serves on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Friends of Education, working to distribute free books to local communities. Prior to her work in early childhood, she served as the Communications Director to the Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives.
FIA Federal Liaison and Policy Advisor
235 S. Grand Ave.
Lansing, MI 48909
(517) 373-4116
mcdonald-stoneK@michigan.gov
McKinney, Kevin
Kevin A. McKinney has more than 20 years of experience in the legislative process. McKinney worked for the Senate Majority Leader/Minority Leader for seven years in a variety of positions, including staff director and committee aide to the Senate Administration and Rules Committee. McKinney left the Legislature in 1986 to join a Lansing based multi-client lobbying firm as its first associate. In September of 1991, McKinney established McKinney & Associates, a multi-client lobbying and consulting firm. The firm specializes in telecommunications, health policy, grassroots advocacy, PAC development, and government procurement-grants and contracts. A 1979 graduate of Michigan State University, McKinney is involved in numerous community and civic activities including past president of Lansing 2000 Inc., former chair of the Greater Lansing Convention/Exhibition Authority, and current chairman of Lansing's Principal Shopping District Board of Directors. McKinney is also managing partner in two real estate development companies.
517-487-2811
Moody, Nancy
Nancy J. Moody is the director of state government affairs for DTE Energy, a position she has held since May 1999. Moody previously served the company as manager of state governmental affairs, since 1992. She is the primary representative and strategist for DTE Energy in state administrative and legislative matters affecting the utility industry, and is also responsible for managing DTE Energy's state government affairs office and staff. Moody is the company's chief lobbyist who builds and maintains state capitol relationships critical to managing issues of importance to the company's customers, shareholders, and employees. Moody joined Detroit Edison in 1988 as a legislative representative after serving six years as administrative assistant and legislative aide for the Michigan Senate Minority Floor Leader. She is a 1978 cum laude graduate of Kalamazoo College, with a Bachelor of Arts degree, and has studied at universities in Germany and France.
517-371-2350
Neussendorfer, Joe
Joe Neussendorfer is the Association Executive (extensive knowledge and experience in creating governmental affairs groups) of Associated General Contractors. He helped establish the Legislative Committee for the Construction Association of Michigan, as well as the Construction Industry Legislative Coalition. He has lobbied over the years on such important issues as worker's compensation, unemployment insurance, urban sprawl, and occupational safety & health issues impacting the construction industry. Joe is also the past Chairman and current Board Member of the Michigan Apprenticeship Steering Committee (MASCI) and can assist school teachers and counselors on any masonry vocational resource search for their students.
MCA, 12870 Farmington Rd., Suite B,
Livonia, Michigan 48150.
(734) 458-8544,,
e-mail: jneussmca@ameritech.net.
Olendorf, Don
Mr. Olendorf's present-day assignment is working as the Legislative Liaison for the Michigan Small and Rural Schools Association. In that role he represents their unique interests while working with the legislature advocating general school issues. Prior to this position he served as a second grade teacher, elementary Principal, School Superintendent, Tech Center Principal, Regional Guidance Administrator, Community College Government Instructor, and Educational Foundation Director. He has been appointed to the Fennville Library Board and The Lake Michigan Shore Association. He was President of both groups. Mr. Olendorf is presently serving his first term as a Saugatuck Township Planning Commissioner.
(269) 208-9286
Parker-Lee, Carol
Ms. Parker Lee has extensive experience working with the federal, state and local governmental agencies to advocate on behalf of the medically underserved and the federally qualified health centers. She focuses her efforts on increasing access to essential health care services, improving the quality of care provided to medically underserved populations, and ensuring a stable financial position for safety-net providers. To accomplish these goals, Ms. Parker Lee regularly meets with state and federal policymakers to educate them on the needs of the medically underserved.
(517) 432-4324
Peters, Brian
Brian is the Group Vice President of Advocacy at the Michigan Health and Hospital Association. He has served as the association's staff to the Council of Physicians, the Council on Small or Rural Hospitals, and the Council on Osteopathic Health Care. In addition, he has delivered over 300 presentations on the future of health care to hospital management, governance, and medical staffs, and is a contributing author of "Technology and the Future of Health Care: Preparing for the Next Thirty Years" released in January, 2000 by the AHA Press. Brian has worked in a number of capacities with the MHA since 1990, including Director of Corporate Initiatives, Director of Health Care Futures, and Assistant to the President. He is the Vice Chairman of the Michigan Youth in Government Board, is a member of the Davenport College (Lansing) Physical Therapy Assistant Advisory Board, and has served as the Treasurer of the Michigan Rural Health Association, and the coordinator of the Michigan Organization of Nurse Executives.
517-703-8601
Ruff, Craig
Craig Ruff is president and CEO of Public Sector Consultants. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Ruff spent eleven years in Michigan's executive office, first as special assistant for human services to Gov. William G. Milliken and then as chief of staff to Lt. Gov. James H. Brickley. He developed legislation, coordinated interdepartmental policies, reviewed agency budgets, and worked closely with numerous professional associations and interest groups. He has been with the firm since 1983, and as senior consultant to many of the company's clients, he directs research studies, develops promotional and advocacy strategies, and oversees the management of specific issues for clients. He has authored research studies and publications on health care, education, information technology, and other public policy issues. As the first holder of the Robert and Marjorie Griffin Endowed Chair in American Government at Central Michigan University, he teaches a weekly seminar on American government and leads two public policy forums annually.
517-371-7433
cruff@pscinc.com
Rule, Eric
Mr. Rule was employed for two years with then Senate Majority Leader Dick Posthumus as Deputy Director of External Affairs (1996-1998). Following that, he worked for 2 1/2 years with the Michigan Pharmacists Association as Director of Governmental Affairs (1998-2001). Currently, Mr. Rule is employed with the Michigan Retailers Association as Director of Governmental Affairs (2001 - present). His areas of legislative expertise include general pharmacy issues, general retail and business issues, tax issues, and PAC fundraising and administration.
517-372-5656
Sarafa, Mike
Mike is with Associated Food Dealers of Michigan which is Michigan's largest and oldest food and beverage trade association. He was previously an Associate with Muchmore, Harrington Smalley and Associates, one of Lansing's largest multi-client lobbying firms. Also, he served as an executive assistant to Mayor Dennis W. Archer for 5 years.
248-557-9600
msarafa@afdom.org
Schwartz, John
John has been employed by Michigan Bell/Ameritech/SBC for almost 18 years--15 years working in Corporate Security (1985 2000), and 3 years working in External Affairs (EA), 2000 present. As an EA manager he works with public officials on issues pertinent to SBC and telecommunications, in general. That work could include legislation, complaints, public policy issues, and other related matters. Another major aspect of his job includes working with constituency groups, handling customer complaints, reviewing requests for grants and sponsorships, serving on various boards and committees, involvement in community projects (i.e.: Cesar E. Chavez Way), PAC solicitation, and other various tasks.
616-732-1966
Skene, Erin
Erin Skene serves as Director of the Michigan Public Policy Initiative (MPPI). The Initiative is a program of the Michigan Nonprofit Association, affiliated with the Council of Michigan Foundations. The vision of MPPI is to promote involvement of Michigan's nonprofit community in public policy by training its leaders, building the capacity of its organizations and encouraging collaboration with public policy makers. With MPPI, Erin develops programming, publications and trainings to educate policy makers on issues that impact nonprofits and to encourage nonprofits involvement in advocacy and lobbying.
517-492-2400
Stafford, Dave
Dave has served as a lobbyist at the state and federal level for the Michigan Education Association from 1993 to the present. He represents the MEA and its members to the Michigan State Legislature and the federal Congress on a host of labor, tax policy, health policy and educational issues. He serves as a liaison to MEA members in 85 school districts in southeastern Michigan. He previously served 23 years as a staff field representative for the MEA in negotiation and administration of local collective bargaining agreements. He served four years as a teacher of government, history, and English.
517-332-6551
Stanley, Nancy
Nancy Stanley is the Associate Executive Director of the Michigan Association of School Administrators. Her current responsibilities include: providing superintendents and staff with information, technical assistance, consultation and professional development regarding the implementation of school code requirements and the implication of school law and legislation. She analyzes and disseminates legislative policy proposals and information which impact education. She serves as liaison between MDE, local school districts, local, state, and federal officials on legislative issues. She provides leadership in professional organizations, associations and state committees which influence public policy and legislation and maintains appropriate networks. She initiates and recommends legislation and policy proposals. She coordinates the analysis, sharing and dissemination of information with a variety of organizations and associations. Also, Nancy presents at conferences and workshops for constituents and staff regarding school law, legislation, and education policy.
ContractED, Inc.
1320 King George Blvd
Ann Arbor, MI-48108
Phone: 734-975-6778
Fax: 734-971-3122
E-mail: info@contract-ed.com
Telman, Raymond
Raymond Telman has formerly served as the Executive Director of the Michigan Association of School Administrators, the Michigan Institute for Educational Management, and the Michigan Association of Intermediate School Administrators. Furthermore, he has acted as Director of the Wayne County Learning Center and the Director of Special Education and Field Services for Wayne RESA. In addition to formerly serving as a teacher and school principal, he is also an attorney/counselor and a registered lobbyist. Mr. Telman is affiliated with the American Association of School Administrators, the American Bar Association, the Michigan Association of School Administrators, the Michigan Bar Association, the Michigan Education Alliance, and the Michigan School Management Lobby Corps.
517-347-0292
Wilbur, Kathy
Kathy is the Vice President for Government Relations and Public Affairs at Central Michigan University. Formerly, she was the Director of the Department of Consumer and Industry Services under Gov. John Engler. She held three directors positions under Gov. Engler.
989-774-3871