Distinguished Service Award Luncheon & Traverse Connect Business & Community Achievement Awards

Date and Time

Wednesday May 21, 2025
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM EDT

Registration Begins: 11:00 AM
Luncheon Program: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Location

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa
100 Grand Traverse Village Blvd, Acme, MI 49610

Michigan Ballroom

Fees/Admission

Individual Tickets: $50

Includes a plated lunch

Please note - We cannot accommodate requests to have a reserved table placed next to another company or person specifically. Refunds will not be available one week prior to the event. Thank you for understanding.

Registration will be closed on Friday, May 16th.

Contact Information

Abby Seitter
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Event Sponsors

Description

Distinguished Service Award
& Traverse Connect Business & Community Achievement Awards

Please join us on Wednesday, May 21 at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa as we honor and celebrate the 2024 Distinguished Service Award recipient, Mary Vollink.

Mary Vollink, the Traverse City Salvation Army’s Office Manager and Volunteer Coordinator, was selected by the Traverse Connect Board of Directors to receive the Distinguished Service Award. The DSA is among the region’s oldest and most prestigious civic awards, presented annually since 1929. Ms. Vollink will be honored at the Distinguished Service Award Luncheon on May 21, 2025.

Mary’s long tenure with The Salvation Army began in the early 1980s in Holland, where she was born and raised. In 1988, she and her husband, Jim, relocated to Traverse City, and shortly following their move, she joined the staff of the Traverse City Salvation Army and the TCAPS Transportation Department. Mary drove a school bus, transporting elementary and special needs students until 2010, and she is still considered a friend by many of the families she got to know while serving the district’s students.

Mary has been dedicated to the mission of The Salvation Army since her childhood, alongside her parents and four siblings. After participating in its programs as a young person, Mary grew into leadership roles in Holland and Traverse City. In addition to her responsibilities as the Office Manager and Volunteer Coordinator, Mary is the Emergency Disaster Services Coordinator. In addition to her official roles, Mary gives significant time to teaching youth groups and summer camps, mentoring young people and adults, lending a hand for food drives, ringing the bell at the holidays, transporting those in need, and serving on the boards of WLJN and The Salvation Army’s church.

“Mary Vollink cares about this community with no concern for fame; she is a selfless servant,” said Patrick J. Parker, ret. fire chief of the Grand Traverse Metro Fire Department. “You can only be a volunteer coordinator if you are out front leading with the care and compassion you expect from your volunteers.”

“Mary Vollink has been a tireless worker and volunteer at The Salvation Army for decades,” said Jason Allen, civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army, Michigan North and Michigan State Senator from 2003-2010. “Mary is a quiet leader that has given mercy and support for our region.”

Traverse Connect Business & Community Achievement Awards

Join us for an exciting event as Traverse Connect proudly presents the Business & Community Achievement Awards, featuring live voting during the Distinguished Service Award Luncheon. Our mission is to honor and celebrate the businesses and leaders who have significantly impacted the Grand Traverse Region in 2024. We invite the community to nominate deserving businesses and individuals for recognition in four distinguished categories: Rising Star (TCYP), Leadership Grand Traverse Alum, New Business of The Year, and Economic Impact. From each category, three finalists will advance to participate in live voting during the luncheon on May 21, where they will be announced and honored. Let's come together to acknowledge and applaud the remarkable contributions within our community. You must be present to vote.

Alexis Chas

Alexis Chas is a Product Manager with ten years of experience working alongside the Groupe Beneteau, a global player in the marine industry. Alexis specializes in Product Management for the US brands (Four Winns, Scarab, Wellcraft, Glastron) of Groupe Beneteau manufactured in Cadillac, MI. He is responsible for Leading the product lifecycle, from defining the roadmap to launch, growth, and end-of-life management. Alexis is a powerful force in the workplace and uses his positive attitude and tireless energy to design the best boats and customer experience available on the market. Alexis is inspired daily by his Wife and his daughter. In his free time, Alexis likes to bicycle, boat and play games with his daughter.

Brayton Farr

Bryaton was raised in the small village of Northport, Leelanau County, Michigan. He still calls Leelanau County home today. Growing up in a tight-knit community helped him understand the importance of putting others first and making meaningful and impactful lifelong connections. Brayton graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree with a double major in Finance and Marketing.

Brayton started his career in insurance right out of college in 2013 with a captive insurance agency. He then transitioned to pursue a career in residential mortgage lending in 2020. He also simultaneously obtained his real estate salesperson license in 2023 while originating mortgages. Currently Brayton is expanding his career as a Senior Mortgage Loan Officer with Citywide Home Mortgage in addition to his role as Director of Events and Member Engagement with the Home Builders Association of Northwest Michigan. He also is the founder of Solutions By Farr, LLC.

Volunteering, community engagement, and making a positive impact on his local community is very important to Brayton. When he is not working or volunteering, Brayton enjoys spending time with his family and friends, working on cars, house projects, and enjoying beautiful Northern Michigan with his two rescue dogs.

Mallory Szczepanski

Mallory Szczepanski is the event and content producer for Recycling Today Media Group, where she manages curriculum development and marketing for the Battery & Critical Metals Recycling Conference, Scrap Expo, MRF Operations Forum, Paper & Plastics Recycling Conference and Waste Today’s Corporate Growth Conference. Prior to this role, she was the vice president of marketing and communications for the National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA) and publisher and editor-in-chief of WasteRecycling magazine. She also served as editorial director at Waste360, overseeing editorial efforts for the publication and WasteExpo.

With a background in B2B journalism, Szczepanski has covered industries such as waste and recycling, architecture and design and food and beverage. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Columbia College Chicago and recently participated in the 2023-2024 Leadership Grand Traverse and 2023 Women's Leadership Cohort programs through Traverse Connect. She also serves as executive director for the Elk Rapids Harbor Days Association, program chair for the Traverse City Young Professionals, a board member for Addiction Treatment Services, an advisory committee member for Traverse City Central High School and was named one of the 2023 Influential Women of Northern Michigan by the Traverse City Record-Eagle.

Cindy Evans

Cindy Evans has been with Grand Traverse Industries (GTI) since 2001, where she has passionately contributed to the organization’s mission of providing meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities. With over 24 years of dedicated service, Cindy has built a lifelong career at GTI, reflecting her deep investment in the people and communities she serves. In 2021, she became Executive Director, continuing to lead with purpose, compassion, and a strong commitment to making a lasting impact

Under her leadership, GTI has not only enriched the lives of individuals through employment and inclusion, but has also contributed to the region’s economic development through job creation, workforce participation, and community partnerships that support a more vibrant and inclusive local economy.

Cindy’s impact reaches far beyond the workplace. A graduate of Leadership Grand Traverse (Spring 2014), she uses her leadership and voice to champion positive change across Northern Michigan. She attends the Traverse Connect Government Relations Committee and is a member of the Northwest Michigan Community Development Coalition, where she actively helps shape policies and initiatives that strengthen both communities and economies.

She is also a strong believer in the power of mentorship, contributing her time and insight to several programs focused on empowering others. Cindy currently serves on the board of Incompass Michigan, further advancing her commitment to advocacy for individuals with disabilities across the state.

Personally, Cindy is a devoted community volunteer. For more than a decade, she has served meals to the homeless community before church on Sundays and regularly shares her time and talents with causes that reflect her values of compassion, dignity, and inclusion.

Cindy’s leadership is grounded in her belief that all people matter and deserve a place to belong. Her career is defined by creating opportunities, fostering community connection, and building a stronger, more inclusive region—both economically and socially.

Alison Metiva

Alison grew up in Northern Michigan and is a graduate of Northwestern Michigan College and Western Michigan University. She joined the staff of the Community Foundation in 2005. As the Foundation's Chief Operating Officer, Alison enjoys working alongside her colleagues, donor partners, and the community to build long-term resources for our region and maximize the benefit of those assets today and for generations to come. She will succeed David Mengebier as President & CEO of the Community Foundation in January 2026.

Alison is currently Board Chair for Generations Ahead, serves on the Executive Team for the Great Start Collaborative Traverse Bay and the Advisory Council for the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities, and is co-chair for Press Forward Northern Michigan. She also provides leadership for CLEO, an early childhood collaborative in Central Lake that is supported by the Community Foundation.

Alison and her partner, John, live in Traverse City with their high schooler, middle schooler, and toddler.

Maddie Saucedo

"Maddie" is a nonprofit leader and passionate fund who deeply cares about her community. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University and a Master of Public Administration degree from Central Michigan University. Maddie moved back to Northwest Michigan 2017 and made the decision to live in Traverse City. Since them, Maddie has spent her professional career working for organizations whose missions align with her values. She is the Northern Navigator Engagement Chair for Michigan's Creative Coast and can often be found attending local events. As Director of Fund Development at Traverse Bay Children's Advocacy Center, Maddie helps spread awareness of the organization's mission by advocating from a future where every child feels safe. During her free time, she enjo hiking, live music, and spending time with her loved ones.

Century LLC.

Century is a metal manufacturing and integrated thermal processing company servicing the aerospace, industrial tooling, medical, and oil & gas industries. Century is comprised of three Business Units all located in the Traverse City Airport Industrial Park which include: Century Specialties, Century Sun Metal Treating and Clark Manufacturing.

Cherry Republic

Cherry Republic celebrates Michigan's Montmorency Tart Cherry through its 200+ cherry-based products including chocolate-covered cherries, BBQ sauces, jams, jellies, salsas, nut mixes, ice cream toppings, baked goods, condiments, soda pop, cherry wine and cherry beer.

The company employs approximately 140 year-round workers and has retail stores in Glen Arbor, Traverse City, Ann Arbor, Holland, Frankenmuth, Charlevoix, and Mackinaw City. Since its inception in 1989, the company has donated $2 million to nonprofits that positively impact the environment and communities throughout Michigan.

Life, Liberty, Beaches & Pie. It's our mantra, and you'll find its words emblazoned in every corner of the Republic. These are values that mean the world to us, and we strive to live them everyday.

Grand Traverse Industries

For over 50 years, Grand Traverse Industries (GTI) has been a vital contributor to the economic and social fabric of Northern Michigan. With locations in Traverse City and Mancelona, GTI proudly serves multiple communities by creating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with significant disabilities while strengthening the region through business growth, community development, and lasting partnerships.

GTI operates a wide range of programs and social enterprises that not only generate economic activity but also promote independence, inclusion, and personal achievement. Through innovative employment models and collaborative relationships with local businesses and governments, GTI empowers hundreds of individuals to find and sustain meaningful work—transforming lives and supporting a more diverse, resilient workforce.

At GTI, the mission is simple yet powerful: to create paychecks and smiles. This guiding principle reflects the organization’s unwavering commitment to fostering dignity through employment, joy through connection, and pride through contribution. Every job created and every opportunity opened is a step toward a stronger, more inclusive community. GTI also operates the Local Interpreter Services Network (LIS'N), which provides essential American Sign Language interpretation and advocacy for the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing communities across the region—ensuring access, inclusion, and communication equity.

Beyond its economic contributions, GTI exemplifies purpose-driven community involvement. The organization gives back through initiatives like Friendship Park, an ADA-accessible community space and memorial garden, and a vibrant volunteer program that enables those we serve to contribute to their communities. These efforts foster inclusion, deepen connections, and create a sense of purpose and belonging for all involved.

At the heart of GTI’s success is a strong, people-first culture built on the values of empathy, integrity, mercy, and inclusion. The organization invests in its employees and creates an environment where everyone—team members, participants, and partners alike—can thrive. These values are not just principles—they’re a way of life that guides every interaction and decision.

With more than five decades of impact, Grand Traverse Industries continues to lead with purpose—driving economic vitality while uplifting individuals and enriching communities across Northern Michigan.

Bushell's Kitchen + Cocktails and Dreloco Taco

Andre Bushell is a driven entrepreneur, restaurateur, and community leader based in Northern Michigan, with a deep-rooted passion for building businesses that create impact. From humble beginnings, Andre carved his path in the hospitality industry through relentless hustle, strategic vision, and a commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.

His career began in sales, but it was the restaurant industry that truly sparked his purpose. Since stepping into the culinary world, Andre has founded and operated multiple ventures across the region, including Foundry Craft Grillery, Dreloco Taco, and Bushell's Kitchen & Cocktails. He has played a key role in revitalizing downtown spaces and diversifying Northern Michigan’s culinary scene with concepts that blend culture, authenticity, and community connection.

Over the years, Andre has been directly responsible for creating over 500 jobs through both current and former employment, generating not just employment, but opportunity, mentorship, and growth for hundreds of individuals across the region.

Andre is also deeply committed to giving back. Whether it's hosting fundraisers, providing meals for families in need, or sponsoring local events, he consistently prioritizes community impact as a core part of his mission. His businesses don’t just serve food, they serve people, purpose, and the neighborhoods that support them.

Today, Andre continues to lead with heart and hustle, investing in the Traverse City area and surrounding communities, creating strong teams, and building a lasting legacy through entrepreneurial excellence and community-driven leadership.

FreshTrippin

FreshTrippin is a fast paced cleaning company in Northern Michigan founded by Jessica Guenther in 2021. They focus on providing Traverse City and its surrounding areas with property cleaning, maintenance, and concierge services to homeowners, property managers and real estate agents. They specialize in working with short-term rental, commercial, post construction, and residential properties. As of this year, FreshTrippin is also providing trash and recycling bin cleaning services to residential clients through their new company, Sparkly Fresh Totes.

RiverClub Glen Arbor

Mike grew up in the suburbs of Detroit and spent summers in northern Michigan. After a few decades in the advertising business, Mike retired in 2019. Then a couple years later he got bored and decided to build his dream. Gina is a California native who had a long career at MTV. Starting as an assistant she worked her way up to the head of sales in Los Angeles before retiring in 2012 to look after the kids.

After three years of designing, engineering, building, and operationalizing a three-acre property River Club Glen Arbor opened in June of ’24 to a spectacular reception. Within the first two months 70 employees and 80,000 guests enjoyed a beautifully landscaped 18-hole putting course, healthy and tasty “Mexigan” style food, three full bars and live music seven nights a week. There’s also breathtaking riverfront seating and even a Sky Deck for a bird's eye view of the River Club Live stage below. Entering the park is a delightful gift shop full of Michigan themed items designed to make you smile.

In short, this newest addition to our region is truly one of a kind. In fact there is nothing like it anywhere in the country!

Mike and Gina Sheldon’s vision was to invest in our beloved region and create something multigenerational families could enjoy for decades to come. To offer something completely differentiating in hospitality. To make sure the youngest kids feel catered to while mom and dad and the grandparents all have things to enjoy. They call it the “no veto vote” hospitality option.

River Club Glen Arbor has employed over 30 Traverse City area contractors, consultants, designers, and others, including over 150 individuals who participated in the build. River Club Glen Arbor also launched a program called “Intentional Acts of Kindness” where employees and residents receive individualized support for specific needs in times of crisis.

Click here to learn more about each category.

About the DSA Award: The award is a 90-year tradition that annually recognizes a local resident for his or her efforts to improve the lives of people living and working in the Grand Traverse area. The DSA honors business leaders, public servants, patrons of area arts, naturalists, and those from a host of other backgrounds who've worked and given tirelessly to improve the region, according to Traverse Connect.

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