Board of Trustees

The Strickler Center is led by a volunteer Board of Trustees dedicated to supporting local nonprofits and strengthening our community. Meet the people behind the mission:

Jill Bourland, Past President

A founding board member, Jill is a CPA and partner at Blystone & Bailey CPAs. She also serves on the board of Isabella Bank Corporation and is a past president of the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation.

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Kate Bracken, Trustee

Kate is a lifelong Mt. Pleasant resident and a firm believer in the power of community. She’s been with Southwind Restaurants since 2009 and is passionate about supporting local initiatives that bring people together and make a difference.

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Laura Crawford, Trustee

Laura is a Certified Financial Planner and Limited Partner at Edward Jones. A Clare native and former college softball player, she loves the outdoors, mountain biking, gardening, and spending time with her family.

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Ramie Harrison, Trustee

Ramie is a CPA and partner at Boge, Wybenga & Bradley, PC. A CMU graduate, she serves on the Center’s finance committee and is active in the Women’s Initiative Committee, bringing a thoughtful approach to nonprofit finance.

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Alex Weisenburger, Trustee

Alex is an insurance specialist at General Agency Company, where he continues his family’s five-generation legacy. He’s proud to support the Strickler Center’s mission of providing affordable space for nonprofits to thrive.

Interested in getting involved?
We’re always looking for passionate people who care about our community.
Reach out to board@stricklercenter.com to learn more about board service.

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Michelle Mease, President

Michelle is Vice President and Senior Trust Officer at Isabella Bank, where she manages investment accounts, estates, and trusts. A Certified Trust and Financial Advisor, she earned her degree in Personal Financial Planning from CMU. Michelle also serves on the Northeastern Michigan Estate Planning Council.

Alexa Carey, Vice President

Alexa is the Executive Director of the Mid Michigan College Foundation. With over a decade of experience in fundraising and event planning, she brings energy, creativity, and a deep passion for building strong, connected communities.

Kirsten Clark, Secretary

Kirsten is a proud Mt. Pleasant native and CMU graduate. She’s spent over a decade with Dow and enjoys traveling, cooking, and making memories with her two children. She brings her strong organizational skills and community spirit to the board.

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Tina Gaillard, Treasurer

Tina is the Director of Finance and Administration at United Way of Gratiot & Isabella Counties. She’s passionate about using her financial expertise to support collaborative efforts that uplift the region.

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Stacy Griffus, Trustee

Stacy brings over 25 years of public service, including two decades in Children’s Services for the State of Michigan. A Shepherd and Alma College alum, she’s deeply committed to helping local nonprofits make a lasting impact.

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Pete Hairston, Trustee

Pete is a Senior Attorney at Sarah’s Law Firm, focusing on Wills, Trusts, and Probate. With 22 years of experience in law enforcement, Pete combines legal knowledge and community insight to support the Center’s mission.

Rob Powell, Trustee

Rob is a founding board member and a 1999 graduate of Central Michigan University with 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. When he’s not supporting mission-driven work, Rob enjoys biking, swimming, golfing, and spending time with his family.