Carly Lillard has called Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region home since 2007. She works in fund development and communications and enjoys helping organizations share their stories and connect with the community. Carly earned a bachelor’s degree in Business from Northwood University and a master’s in Strategic Communication from Michigan State University. Outside of writing, she loves spending time with her husband, Jesse, and their two children, Maycie and Elias. You can reach her at carlylillard@gmail.com.
Along the Saginaw River, students at the Bay City Rowing Club are learning teamwork, trust and confidence through rowing. What began as an adult club expanded in 2018 to include youth, welcoming beginners and guiding them from rowing machines to the water. For rowers like Addison Butcher, it offers a calming outlet and a strong sense of connection.
In the “Bot Cave,” the Freeland Fabricators are building more than a robot. They are building confidence, leadership, friendships and a sense of purpose. While the team has earned international recognition in FIRST Robotics, students say the real impact goes far beyond competition, shaping who they are and how they show up for their community.
Midland’s first-ever mounted patrol unit is bringing a quieter, more approachable form of policing to community events, creating new opportunities for connection.
The partnership between the Midland County Educational Service Agency and the Mid-Michigan Manufacturers Association highlights what happens when schools and industry move in step.