Christopher brings nearly 15 years of professional experience in Michigan and Ohio spanning community and economic development, legislative affairs, politics, and regulatory experience to the LSCP. A born and raised Michigander, Christopher got his first taste of UP life as a student at Northern Michigan University and has advocated on behalf of the region ever since. He has a bachelors in Public Administration (NMU) and a master’s in City and Regional Planning from The Ohio State University.  He also holds accreditations in the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and from the National Development Council as an Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) and is active with professional organizations including the Michigan Planning Association and the Michigan Economic Developers Association.

Mary has five years of experience in economic development and is currently working toward becoming a Certified Economic Developer. She also has experience in project management, customer service and real estate (short sales and foreclosures), is a Certified Business Service Professional, certified in Economic Modeling Specialists and a notary public. She serves on the board of directors of the Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDA), serves on the the board of directors for the Marquette Breakfast Rotary, is a member of Connect Marquette, and the Accelerate U.P. resource team. Mary is a graduate of Central Michigan University with a degree in Business Management.

Brooke has experience in customer service, consulting and team management. She is a graduate of Northern Michigan University with a degree in Entrepreneurship. She is a member of the Accelerate U.P. resource team, CTE Committee and the Alumni Advisor for NMU TEAM Business.

In 2021, Michaela (Kayla) graduated from Northern Michigan University with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Media Design Management. While pursuing her degree, Michaela worked in various marketing and social media positions. She has experience working within multiple industries such as real estate, manufacturing, mortgage, aviation, travel, and more. At Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP), Michaela focuses her efforts on social media, marketing, and creating/distributing communications materials.

Elle Jansen is the Community and Economic Development Specialist at the Lake Superior Community Partnership. Prior to joining the LSCP, she completed a fifteen-month placement as the CEDAM Community Development Fellow for the City of St. Ignace, MI. She is passionate about working with others to establish strong towns, community vibrancy, and pride in where you live.

Jansen earned a bachelor’s degree from Albion College in 2019 with a major in urban planning and public policy. Elle is a volunteer board member of the Lake Superior Watershed Conservancy.