The purpose is to help the State of Michigan develop the state Community Violence Intervention (CVI) office and state CVI strategic priorities. We assist the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) connect with additional partners and sectors doing this work. And we provide feedback on CVI office initiatives.

I have one of the most unique and exciting positions around. As the Director of CE at the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office I spend much of my time working to build bridges between the community and deputies. Not many police agencies do what we do and that's something I'm proud to share. I often say that I feel like I’ve discovered this secret that I can’t yell loud enough for people to hear—that transforming the system is not only possible, but that I’ve been doing it right here in Washtenaw County. Transformational reform is more than a few feel good programs. It’s the systematic and intentional process of changing the very foundations of modern day policing. It’s about changing the values, beliefs, training, policies, strategies, structure and culture of the Sheriff’s Office. It’s having the audacity to believe we can do more than simply reduce the harm within the system. It’s the unwavering commitment to reshape our justice system into a force that not only holds those causing harm accountable but also heals wounds, restores dignity, and uplifts communities. It’s moving from crime fighters to problem solvers. From simply arresting and holding someone in jail, to being the connection that ensures someone who enters the system leaves better prepared for success than when they arrived. It is a vision that paves the way for a future where justice is not just about punishment, but about healing, restoration, and genuine transformation. And it’s what I’ve been doing the last 15 years.

Washtenaw County My Brother’s Keeper (WMBK) is a county-wide transformation and collective empowerment collaborative. As President Barack Obama launched the My Brother’s Keeper Challenge in February 2014, WMBK took on the MBK Challenge and became a local affiliate in 2015. WMBK represents one of over 200 communities nationally, and a dozen within Michigan, to have accepted the MBK Community Challenge. MBK communities at large seek to establish cradle to career pathways of success for young men of color in cities, counties, and tribal communities nationwide. WMBK uses tools such as cross-sector partnerships, holding space for intergenerational connection, community-based planning and advocacy to transform the lives of boys and men of color in the county.

Washtenaw Technical Middle College (WTMC) is the largest and most successful early college high school in the United States. We offer a challenging and supportive environment in which students transition to college coursework at the pace that fits their individual needs. Students can select from more than 135 college certificate and degree programs. More than 80% of WTMC graduates earn an associate degree with their high school diploma - all without paying for tuition, fees, or books.

During my time at EMU I taught off and on throughout the years, based on course availability. I was an adjunct lecturer who taught within the Social Work department. I taught various courses, both undergraduate and graduate level.

In 2000, I ran for Ypsilanti Township Trustee, marking my entry into the world of politics. Though I lost the election by just one vote, the experience was invaluable, and I learned a great deal. It was during this campaign that I met Lawrence Kestenbaum, who had recently been elected as the county clerk. I had the privilege of working for him as his appointed Chief Deputy Clerk. In this role, I helped manage elections for the county, oversaw the administrative functions of his office, and eventually took on the responsibility of overseeing the vital records division as well.

At Ozone I was the Director of Street Outreach and spent most of my time in the streets working with young people and trying to help them navigate very difficult life challenges.