Jackson News Briefs December 5, 2025

Jackson County Chamber and Experience Jackson Announce New Appointment

Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Experience Jackson announce the hiring of Melissa Burgett, who takes on the role of Vice President of Community and Business Engagement for the Chamber and Experience Jackson.

Burgett assumes the role of Tim Booth, who joined the Chamber staff over six years ago. Booth will remain on staff throughout the transition before beginning his retirement in early 2026.

Burgett brings a unique blend of strategic outreach, relationship-building, and community leadership to the role. With over two decades of experience in healthcare, education, and organizational development, Melissa is passionate about creating meaningful connections that strengthen local businesses and enhance community well-being. Prior to joining the Chamber, she served as Community Outreach Coordinator for Orthopaedic Rehab Specialists, where she led initiatives that connected healthcare providers with the community through educational events, race series, and scholarship programs. Her efforts modernized outreach strategies and expanded opportunities for local engagement, fostering partnerships that supported both economic growth and healthy lifestyles.

“We are thrilled to welcome Melissa to the team. Her extensive background directing initiatives and engagement makes her a powerful addition to help drive our strategic vision forward,” said Ryan Tarrant, President and CEO of the Jackson Chamber of Commerce and Experience Jackson. “Having a leader of Melissa’s caliber in this role positions both the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Experience Jackson for significant growth and continued success.”

A Cleveland native, Burgett earned her Bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training from Ohio University and a Master’s in Community Counseling from John Carroll University. Outside of work, she enjoys time on the lake with her husband and two children and actively supports youth sports in the Jackson area.

“My vision is to create a welcoming and innovative space where people, businesses, and ideas come together to strengthen connections and build a thriving community for everyone,” said Burgett.

Albion EDC Names Kelly as President and CEO

The Albion Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) Board of Directors is proud to announce the addition of Deborah Kelly as its new President and CEO.

In this position, Kelly will guide strategic economic development, lead and support growth and collaboration initiatives, and leverage AEDC’s property portfolio and other tools to meet the organization’s long- and short-term goals.

Kelly is a graduate of Jackson College and Baker College with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree and is currently pursuing her Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation with the International Economic Development Council.

She brings more than 26 years of experience in economic development, having previously served as the Vice President at Accelerate Jackson County (AJC), formerly known as The Enterprise Group of Jackson. Prior to her work in economic development, Kelly served in the United States Air Force, and held marketing and administrative positions in Jackson’s not-for-profit sector.

During her time at AJC, Kelly revamped several programs to include local, state, and federal grant administration and financial incentive programs, which helped the five entities that are served and staffed by AJC.

“We welcome Deborah to Albion,” AEDC Board Chairman Trevor White said. “She has great experience, and we look forward to her leadership at the EDC.”

Outside of work, Kelly is married with one child and serves as secretary of the Summit Township Zoning Board of Appeals.

Southern Michigan Bank & Trust Announces Promotion of Andrew DeHaven

Lori Neill, Vice President, Retail Branch Administrator of Southern Michigan Bank & Trust (SMBT), recently announced the promotion of Andrew DeHaven to Branch Manager of the Jackson Downtown Branch.

DeHaven joined the bank in June 2023 as a Teller Supervisor, bringing more than 15 years of experience in financial services. He has played an integral role in the continued growth of the Jackson market, from the opening of the Jackson Downtown Branch to the construction of the new branch in Summit Township. DeHaven was quickly promoted to Assistant Branch Manager before ultimately assuming the role of Branch Manager for the Jackson Downtown Branch. DeHaven attended Jackson College.

“Andrew has a true passion for helping both our customers and his fellow team members succeed,” said Neill. “Our continued growth in the Jackson market has created the need for a dedicated branch manager at each location, and Andrew has been instrumental in that success.”

“This promotion is a well-deserved recognition of Andrew’s leadership and dedication,” said Bobby Wrozek, Jackson Market President. “We’re confident that his experience and commitment to our customers will make him an excellent fit in this new role.”

DeHaven resides in the City of Jackson with his wife, Abbey. Together, they have three children. Outside of work, he is actively involved in the community, volunteering at the Arbor North Living Center, AWARE Shelter, John George Home, and St. Vincent De Paul.

American 1 Credit Union Hires Megan Layne as Eastern Regional Manager

American 1 Credit Union has hired Megan Layne as its new Eastern Regional Manager, overseeing operations at seven branches across the institution’s footprint. Layne brings more than a decade of leadership experience in retail management and plays a key role in enhancing member service and operational efficiency.

“Megan brings a wealth of experience and a strategic mindset that greatly strengthens our team,” said Keleigh Ballinger, Vice President of Branch Operations at American 1 Credit Union. “She has already proven to be a great asset to the credit union, and we are excited to see how her expertise and leadership will positively impact the branches she supports.”

Under Ballinger’s leadership, Layne manages operations at the Adrian, Brooklyn, Chelsea, Clarklake, Home Office, Manchester, and Milan branches. She brings extensive managerial and leadership experience to the credit union, having previously served in roles such as District Team Leader, District Manager, and Store Manager Trainer in the retail industry. Layne is focused on driving strategic initiatives to improve branch performance and elevate the member experience.

“I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to serve as Eastern Regional Manager at American 1 Credit Union,” said Layne. “With years of leadership experience behind me, I’m excited to bring fresh energy and new ideas to the team as we continue to grow and serve our members with excellence.”

TRUE Community Credit Union Hires Two Vice Presidents

Darcey Eagen and Jill Johnson

TRUE Community Credit Union is proud to announce that Darcey Eagen has joined the credit union as Vice President of People, and Jill Johnson has joined as Vice President of Consumer and Real Estate Lending.

Eagen has 25 years of experience leading human resources in the health care and banking industries, and has guided teams in talent acquisition, employee and labor relations, HR strategy and mergers and acquisitions. In alignment with TRUECCU’s values, Eagen currently serves on the board of LifeSpan, which provides valuable resources for those with disabilities.

“In an organization focused on people and curating an exceptional workplace for our team, the VP of People role is a critical champion,” said TRUECCU Chief People Officer Heather Harback. “Darcey not only brings a solid track record in her field, but she’s demonstrated a shared commitment to our values and the creation of legacy-defining moments for those we serve alongside. I’m excited for the impact she will have across our organization.”

Johnson has over three decades of lending experience, 28 years of proven leadership, and 24 years of dedicated service within the credit union industry. She is passionate about professional development, leadership, and delivering exceptional member service, and thrives on building strong, collaborative teams and fostering meaningful connections that extend not only from team member to team member, but to every member served.

“Jill brings extensive expertise and a passion for empowering communities through mortgage, home equity, and consumer lending solutions,” said TRUECCU Chief Growth and Lending Officer Valerie Moskal. “As we continue to grow and innovate, her strategic vision will help us to provide access to even more lending solutions for our members and the communities that we serve.”

TRUE Community Credit Union and Nuestra Comunidad Team Up to Support Local Students

TRUE Community Credit Union is proud to have partnered with Nuestra Comunidad for a third year to provide $10,000 in scholarships for local students.

“The impact of these awards continues to reverberate throughout our community, uplifting our youth and inspiring those who follow behind them,” said Leticia Albarran, Board Chair of Nuestra Comunidad. “We are honored to collaborate with an organization like TRUECCU, who share our commitment and vision in empowering and investing in our local community and students through meaningful and purposeful initiatives! We cannot wait to see where these students’ success takes them!”

Applicants had to meet eligibility requirements, which included being a recent graduate of a Jackson or Lenawee county school or have a GED, having one or both parents of Hispanic or LatinX decent, and being enrolled in or planning to enroll in a 2–4-year institution, trade or apprentice program.

2025 Recipients of the Nuestra Comunidad Scholarships:

Daniel Orozco
Daniela Orozco
Juan Rayas Jr.
Andrew Salazar
Giovanna Sereno
Maritza Zavala

JDL Local History Librarian Honored With Award From Historical Society

Jackson District Library’s Local History Librarian Nathaniel Arndts was recently awarded the Community Impact Award from the Jackson County Michigan Historical Society for his efforts in preserving and celebrating Jackson County history.

The historical society hosted its 5th Annual County History Banquet at the Ella Sharp Museum in Jackson last month. The banquet honorees included Kent and Angie Tyler, Phil Willis, and Arndts, who won the Historical Rehabilitation Award, the Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Community Impact Award, respectively.

“I’m deeply grateful to the Jackson County Michigan Historical Society for recognizing the library’s efforts as well as my own” Arndts said. “I feel that public library archives are uniquely positioned to foster greater interest in history and preservation to the public they serve. My primary goal is to expand public access to the library’s local history materials. My position exists to guarantee that our community has easy access to its history.”

Arndts has worked tirelessly to archive the district’s historical archives and artifacts since he was hired in November 2023. He often partners with local history authors for library book talks and fulfills research requests about county history from interested parties across the United States.

In addition to seminars and talks, Arndts hopes to have a growing list of projects that volunteers can assist the library with and foster a sense of community and responsibility among the public, encouraging them to contribute to preserving local history, he said.

“Jackson County residents are deeply interested and deeply connected to their history,” JDL Director Liz Breed said. “It is our job as a library to offer the materials, resources, and programs that our community wants and needs, and Nathaniel has done a wonderful job of making local history available to area residents. This award is well-deserved and we’re all very proud of him.”

American 1 Credit Union and TRUE Community Credit Union Team Up to Support 25th Annual Hit‘em Fore Hospice Golf Benefit

Martha Fuerstenau and Chrissy Siders

American 1 Credit Union and TRUE Community Credit Union proudly teamed up once again to co-title sponsor the 25th Annual Hit‘em Fore Hospice Golf Benefit, held at the Clark Lake Golf Club and Restaurant on September 26, 2025, in Brooklyn, Michigan. The event raised more than $60,000 in support of the Henry Ford Jackson Hospice Home, the only residential hospice facility in Jackson County.

The four-person scramble brought together community members, sponsors, and volunteers for a day of golf and giving. The funds raised directly support compassionate end-of-life care, helping families in the Jackson area through some of life’s most challenging moments.

Martha Fuerstenau, President/CEO of American 1 Credit Union, shared her gratitude: “It’s an honor to stand alongside our friends at TRUE Community Credit Union in support of the Henry Ford Jackson Hospice Home. This event is a testament to the power of community and the impact we can make when we come together for a cause greater than ourselves.”

Chrissy Siders, President/CEO of TRUE Community Credit Union, echoed the sentiment: “The Hit ‘em Fore Hospice Golf Benefit is more than a fundraiser, it’s a legacy-defining moment for our community. We are grateful to co-sponsor this event with American 1 Credit Union, supporting a cause that has been personally impactful to both Martha and me. My hope is that this partnership and the funds raised make the burden a little lighter for the families experiencing their own loss.”

Since its inception, the Hit‘em Fore Hospice Golf Benefit has raised over $600,000 for the Henry Ford Jackson Hospice Home. The facility offers private patient rooms, family gathering spaces, a water therapy spa, and serene outdoor areas designed to provide comfort and dignity to patients and their loved ones.

American 1 Credit Union Signs 25-Year Naming Rights Agreement for Pavilion at New Blackman Township Park

American 1 Credit Union is proud to announce a 25-year naming rights agreement for the pavilion at the new park currently under development in Blackman Township at 1980 W. Parnall Road in Jackson, Mich.

“We’re honored to be part of this exciting new chapter for Blackman Township,” said Martha Fuerstenau, President and CEO of American 1 Credit Union. “At American 1, our mission is to create financial wellness in the communities we serve — and that includes investing in spaces that foster connection, health, and community pride. We look forward to seeing this park become a vibrant hub for families and neighbors for years to come.”

This partnership reflects American 1’s ongoing commitment to supporting the communities it serves. The pavilion will serve as a gathering place for events, celebrations, and recreational activities for residents of all ages.

“This partnership with American 1 Credit Union is a meaningful investment in the future of our township,” said Phil Preston, Treasurer of Blackman Township. “The pavilion will be a central feature of the new park, and having a local organization like American 1 involved reinforces our shared commitment to creating spaces where our community can gather, celebrate, and thrive.”

The new park is part of Blackman Township’s broader vision to enhance quality of life through accessible outdoor spaces and recreational amenities. The pavilion naming rights agreement is one of several community-focused initiatives American 1 has supported in recent years.