Alumni Society Board Members

John Economy, chair of the UM-Dearborn Alumni Society Board, has been a hands-on operational entrepreneur for the past 20 years. One of John’s first endeavors was Argo Import-Export, with offices in both Detroit and Shanghai. In addition to Argo, John is currently a Managing Partner at America’s Green Line, a WBENC LED lighting company, headquartered in Detroit. With his success within the LED space, John has gone on to diversify himself further, focusing on the research and development of new green technologies and energy-efficient products and applications. John’s focus and expertise has been in sales, global manufacturing and importing. John graduated from the University of Michigan-Dearborn, where he received a B.A. in Political Science in 2001. John is a world traveler and an avid University of Michigan sports fanatic. Outside of work and family, John is an advocate for inner city youth advancement, emphasizing education and organized athletics.

All roads lead back to Southeast Michigan for Inkster native Matthew Carter. After his high school graduation, he proudly served as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army. Having been fortunate enough to have traveled the world with the Army, he returned to the area with a renewed passion for community betterment. Since his return, he has worked tirelessly to give back to the region that he calls home. In 2017, Matthew served on the executive team of the New Leaders Council – Detroit Chapter. A University of Michigan-Dearborn alumni, Matthew, '18 B.A., has built a solid reputation for himself as a professional in the middle market business community. Having ten years of experience in the insurance industry, he has achieved a tremendous amount of success as an insurance broker, consultant, and subject matter expert.

Becky Chadwick is a retired professional with forty-six years experience in higher education and IT. She has had the privilege of gaining various unique perspectives of the University, experiencing it as an undergraduate and graduate student, administrative staff, and faculty. As a first-generation student she completed her Bachelor of Arts and Masters in Public Administration with high academic distinction at UM-Dearborn. For several years she was an administrator in the Office of Institutional Research and taught in the Rackham Graduate School in Dearborn’s Masters of Education (Research in Education) and Public Administration (Statistics for Public Administrators) programs. She continued her studies and doctoral work at Wayne State University majoring in Education Leadership with a minor in Education Evaluation and Research. She retired from Henry Ford Community College as the Vice-President of Strategy and Information responsible for strategic and operational planning, Information Technology, Institutional Research and Reporting, Higher Learning Commission accreditation, assessment of student learning and, as a Six Sigma Black Belt, continuous process improvement. Since retirement she has focused on more creative endeavors, pursuing a certificate in Art History from the Smithsonian and taking design, drawing and painting classes.

Tyler Dalton is a Senior Associate at Kaulig Capital and the Vice President of Partnerships at Kaulig Sports and Entertainment, where he evaluates current and potential private equity, real estate, and capital markets investment opportunities, while also focusing on driving value-added partnerships across all of our Sports and Entertainment endeavors. Prior to Kaulig Capital, he worked in management consulting and family office services at Cohen & Co., collaborating with a global client base on best practices and implementing value-added solutions. Tyler graduated from the University of Michigan-Dearborn with high distinction in 2019. A double major in finance and accounting with an economics minor, he was awarded the 2019 Chancellor’s Medallion during commencement as the class’s most outstanding business school graduate. While at the UM-Dearborn, Tyler played varsity hockey, twice serving as the team’s assistant captain. Tyler is now heavily involved in the Northeast Ohio area through his philanthropic endeavors. Currently, Tyler serves on multiple boards and organizations including: ACG’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Young Professional Committee, he is a board member at Friends of Breakthrough (benefitting Breakthrough Schools) and is the leader of the Emerging Leaders Council, Folds of Honor young professional board, and is the Cleveland chapter president of Hockey Players in Business.

Rebecca Dioso is an experienced Human Resources leader and Change Management professional. Currently, she is the VP of Human Resources for Monetate, Inc. a technology organization. Rebecca graduated from the University of Michigan-Dearborn in 1993 with he B.A. in psychology and sociology. In 1996, she earned her MA from the University of Detroit Mercy in Industrial Organizational Psychology. While at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, Rebecca was president of Delta Phi Epsilon sorority. Rebecca has a passion for Veterans and has built employment-related outreach activities to ensure that those who served our country transition to civilian employment with ease. Rebecca is an active volunteer with Boy Scout Troop 1261 and an Area Representative volunteer with Youth for Understanding, a non-profit organization for high school exchange students. She is a former Member of the Board of the Michigan Diversity Council and is currently the Vice President of the Board for the non-profit Our Community Bridge. In her free time, Rebecca travels globally, visiting her former foreign exchange students located throughout the world. Rebecca and her husband reside on Grosse Ile, MI and their son is a student at Loyola Chicago.

Michael Gillespie is currently the Director of the Faculty Development and Innovation Center and is Professor of Sociology at Eastern Illinois University. As director, Michael oversees the professional development of new and continuing faculty members, designs and develops workshops and webinars on teaching and learning, facilitates mentoring programs, and consults on best practices in pedagogy, assessment, and learning innovations for face-to-face and online courses. He has received multiple campus teaching awards and grants and has been recognized by the provost’s office as an emerging leader on campus. Michael’s teaching and research on poverty, food insecurity, and social welfare has led to the opening of a university-sponsored food pantry on EIU’s campus for students, staff, and faculty. He has also been active with community-based anti-poverty and anti-hunger organizations, Habitat for Humanity, and the local public health department board. Michael received his bachelor’s in Sociology at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, a master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan, and a doctorate in Sociology from Western Michigan University.

Jeff Gordon, '68 B.B.A., is a first generation American and Detroit native. While a student at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, he participated in the co-op program and worked at American Airlines. After graduation, he volunteered with the Peace Corps, setting up supermarkets in India. Returning to the States during the recession of 1971, Jeff consulted with the UM-Dearborn placement office and obtained his first job which began his food industry experience. Jeff’s 34-year career in Michigan was as a Manufacturers’ Representative, food broker, during which he served on many of his clients’ advisory boards. Later, he became the Marketing Manager then Market Developer for a food service distributor serving the Mid-Atlantic states. Jeff completed his successful career in Washington, DC as the owner of Searidge Sales and Marketing. His commitment to service includes his membership on the Board of Iona Senior Services, a non-profit, in Washington, DC. In addition to supporting the new UM-Dearborn Engineering Lab Building, Jeff is a strong believer in our Get to Graduation Fund. Retired, he currently lives in Washington, DC with his wife Beth McGarry.

Sonya Grant, is the President and CEO of WorkSource Cobb, Cobb County’s workforce development agency which provides access to a system of employment and education services for residents and employers in the state of Georgia. Sonya graduated from the University of Michigan-Dearborn where she received a B.A. in communications with a minor in political science. She launched her career after obtaining a Masters of Social Work from Wayne State University in Detroit Michigan. She honed her non-profit, public health, and workforce development skills as a community and economic development Executive Director, a Senior Project Manager for the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health, and as the Chief Operating Officer for Michigan’s third-largest workforce development agency. Sonya led the UM-Dearborn Alumni Society Board as chair during the 2023-2024 academic year.

Sheri Hunter served as a media producer for Detroit’s national news affiliates, including CBS and NBC, for several years before transitioning to the print world. In her role as a journalist, Sheri has written for several daily newspapers including the Oakland Press. After earning her MBA, Sheri has worked as a Marketing Strategist. In 2015, MORE Magazine published an article Sheri wrote, entitled “Parachuting Back to Life,” about her husband’s sudden death and how her adventures with her friends – they lovingly call themselves the Dare Divas – helped her to heal and process her grief. A follow-up article was featured in National Geographic. Sheri’s book, Daring to Live, published by Baker Books was optioned by Amazon Films in 2023. In the book, Sheri wants readers to know that the act of living outside of one’s comfort zone can help them discover amazing things about themselves, even if those acts aren’t as extreme as jumping out of an airplane at 13,000 feet or hiking Mount Kilimanjaro. Sheri speaks at organizations about Wellness in the workplace.

Linda Morin is currently serving as the Pastoral Presence at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Warren, Michigan. She is also a member of the Ecumenical Theological Seminary faculty, where she graduated with a Doctor of Ministry. She earned a Bachelors of Science in Finance and Information Technology from the University of Michigan-Dearborn and a Masters of Business Administration from Wayne State University. She spent many years in banking IT before transitioning into database consulting. In 2016, she purchased an Internet based business, HighlandXPress.com, selling Scottish Highland Dance supplies and Scottish goods. She is a passionate advocate for Samaritas, a social services agency that serves those in need; serving on their Foundation Board for many years and now as an ambassador for the organization. She is also passionate about Michigan football having season tickets for over 40 years! Go Blue! Currently is living in South Lyon with her husband and 2 Whoodles (Wheaton Terrier/Poodle mix).

While at UM-Dearborn, Edward (Ned) Nielsen participated in the co-op program with four work terms at the Chevrolet Engineering Center and the GM Proving Grounds. That co-op experience, along with two UM-Dearborn professors, Dr. Na and Dr. Kurajian, had a huge impact on his life and career. After graduation Ned worked in the aerospace industry where he was the project engineer for the gyroscopes used on the lunar rover and the F111 Fighter plane. He then worked in the laser construction tool industry where he was Vice President of Engineering and received 17 U.S. Patents. After 28 years in industry, Ned joined Calvin College as a Professor of Engineering Design. He always wanted to give back as the UM-Dearborn professors and what the co-op experience had given to him. While at Calvin, Ned started and ran an internship program helping to place three thousand plus students in internship positions. He also started and led two international programs taking over 1,200 students to Europe. Ned retired from Calvin College after 25 years, then joined Hope College where he set up and ran an internship program and a summer program in Germany. After 5 years at Hope College, he has retired for a second time.
 

In 2012, Shanta’l graduated from University of Michigan-Dearborn with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Communications and Cultural Studies and a minor in Public Relations. Shanta’l Overton is the Founder and CEO of Prove Them Wrong, LLC. At Prove Them Wrong, we seek to inspire, encourage, uplift, and eliminate self-doubt. Also, providing the tools and inspiration to help transform your narrative. We love having community events throughout the year such as our Girls Basketball Camp and Golf Fundraiser. As well has having a book scholarship at our alma mater, the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Outside of continuing to “Prove Them Wrong,” Shanta’l is a Software Trainer for an Electronic Medical Records Company (EMR). She travels often to make sure Providers and their staff are taught how to operate thoroughly within the EMR system. While being a student at UM-Dearborn, Shanta’l became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Delta Psi Chapter in Spring 2010. In which she is active and financial at the Detroit Alumnae Chapter! In her free time, Shanta’l loves to spend time with family and friends. Always showing love to Detroit, where she was born and raised! But also, being a sports fanatic and catching a Wolverines, Detroit Lions and/or Pistons game!

Julius Reeves is an engineering and business professional, entrepreneur, corporate talent scout, youth mentor, and community service activist. He has continuously worked to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of all the organizations he has been involved with. Early in his career, Julius earned the GM Fellowship award. He currently holds the position of Manager within the GM Advanced Vehicle Development organization. He leads strategic initiatives focused on developing product component forward strategies that maximize customer value and company profitability. Julius is a native Detroiter and graduate of Cass Technical High School. He has a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering / Operations Research from Wayne State University, a master’s degree in Systems Engineering from UM-Dearborn, and an MBA from the University of Chicago with finance and business strategy concentrations. Julius was awarded the Distinguished Volunteer Award in 2020 on National Philanthropy Day by Wayne State University and currently serves as the Wayne State University Engineering Alumni Board Chair. As an entrepreneur, Julius has assisted in/or led the start-up of several business ventures related to computer/information technology services, vehicle detailing services, and investing (both real estate and the stock market).

Susan Krichbaum Robertson is retired from a decades long career in community relations and public affairs. Her most recent position was Vice President of the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition. There she worked with a unique Board of Directors, comprised of key leaders in business, labor, government and education, to tackle public policy issues and economic development projects for the betterment of the region and state. Prior to that, she was Director of Community Relations at AAA Michigan where she managed corporate contributions, community outreach, employee volunteerism, traffic safety education and information, and a variety of communications. After a brief stint as a substitute teacher in Dearborn Public Schools, she found her niche in community affairs at the Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau, where early in her career she had the privilege of working on major civic and special events in Detroit including the 1980 Republican National Convention, Super Bowl XVI, and the inaugural Grand Prix. Civic involvement, volunteer activities, and a strong network of community and professional contacts have been the hallmarks of her career. She credits Detroit Public Schools and UM-Dearborn ('75 B.A. in Psychology and Education) for a strong foundation, followed by graduate work at U-M, Central Michigan, and Boston College (Professional Certifications in Community Relations). She is currently a member of the League of Women Voters in Michigan and Florida, and volunteers at the Marco Island Chamber of Commerce during winter months.

Mary Starr is the Executive Director of the Michigan Mathematics and Science Leadership Network and President of Starr and Associates, Education Consultants. She has spent her career fighting for the right of K-12 students to have access to high-quality learning in science and mathematics. Currently she is part of two national collaborations, OpenSciEd and Learning in Places. OpenSciEd brings K-12 science learning to all students through high-quality instructional materials, aligned to the science learning standards and consistent with science pedagogical practices. Mary is a co-Principal Investigator Learning in Places, funded by the National Science Foundation, a field-based set of learning materials that are transdisciplinary and aimed at better connecting PK-5 students to their community. Both these initiatives are Open Education Resources which means they are free to all. Mary has also written multiple books for middle school students leveraging her knowledge of project-based learning and has several peer reviewed journal articles. When not meeting with national science education leaders, she can be found presenting at National Science Teaching Association national or sitting in a middle school classroom supporting students and teachers as they learn. She earned her B.A. with teacher certification in elementary in 1986 and taught for several years after which she went to graduate school in Ann Arbor and earned a Ph.D. in science education. Mary and her husband Joe (’86 B.S.E.M.E., ’95 M.S.E., engineering) have four children and two (along with their partners) recently graduated from UM-Dearborn. She currently also serves on the Wayne County Women’s Commission, representing the western parts of Wayne County.

Desirae Tolbert serves as the Chief Public Affairs Officer at Detroit Public Schools Community District where she oversees the Office of Public Affairs and Marketing which is responsible for managing the Districts brand identity and presence. She holds an MBA from Madonna University with a concentration on Non-Profit Leadership and Strategic Management. Her undergraduate degree hails from the University of Michigan Dearborn where her majors were African American Studies, Criminal Justice, and Urban Planning. Desirae takes pride in her commitment to inclusion and advocates for families with children and disabilities. Desirae is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated where she serves and the regional graphic design chairman and maintains board seats on several local non-profit organizations including the Detroit Promise Board of Directors. In her spare time, Desirae dedicates herself to service in the Southeastern Michigan communities concentrating on early childhood literacy, strengthening and supporting families, and increasing positive self-identities for young people.
 

Alumni affiliates are organizations that relate to specific program areas, special interests, and/or special alumni activities that are recognized by UM-Dearborn. A member of each alumni affiliate will serve on the Board as a voting member. Learn more about alumni affiliate work.

The following alumni affiliates are currently recognized:
African American Alumni Affiliate
Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD) Alumni Affiliate

Rachel Leonard currently serves as the Advisor for Student Support Services within the TRIO Department at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Rachel is passionate about student success, especially for students who come from low-income backgrounds or identify as first-generation. She actively volunteers with the First-Gen Student Org on UM-Dearborn's campus and assisted with establishing the "First-Gen Fan Club" which is made up of faculty, staff, and alumni who aspire to be first-gen allies. Through her student involvement at UM-Dearborn, Rachel served in several leadership roles, including as an Orientation Leader, student employee with the Alumni Engagement Office, Talent Gateway as a Talent Ambassador, President of the Opportunity Scholar Program, and as a student-athlete. Rachel is a graduate of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters with a degree in Communications, and serves as the Graduates of the Last Decade Alumni Affiliate co-chair.

Judah Vashti Doty is a non-voting member and is the board's liaison to the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan. With over 15 years of diverse experience in higher education and organizational leadership, Judah is a transformative leader dedicated to fostering inclusive and engaging environments. As the Associate Director of Affiliate Programs at the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan, Judah excels in strategic planning, volunteer management, and event coordination, driving initiatives that connect and empower diverse alumni communities. Her proficiency in data-driven growth and collaborative engagement ensures the alignment of affiliate programs with the university's mission. Judah holds a Master's degree in Higher Education with a focus on Diversity and Social Justice from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor's degree in Higher Education Leadership and Africana Studies from Hampshire College. Her extensive background includes roles such as a Higher Education Consultant for the James Baldwin Scholars Program and a Senior Project Research Associate for multiple universities. Judah's expertise spans budget management, conflict resolution, and cultural awareness, making her a sought-after public speaker and consultant committed to positively impacting organizations and communities. Judah’s professional service includes research roles at the National Center for Institutional Diversity and active participation in the NASPA Undergraduate Fellows Program. Her bold and dynamic leadership style, rooted in a profound commitment to liberation—especially in mental, spiritual, and social realms that hinder self-love and communal unity—demonstrates her capacity to ignite impactful transformation and cultivate inclusive belonging across the academic community.
 

Two current UM-Dearborn students represent the student voice as ex-officio members of the Board. 

Valeria Garcia-Lopez is a junior in the University of Michigan-Dearborn’s College of Business, majoring in Human Resource Management. Valeria is a proud first generation student and oldest sister to two younger siblings. Currently, she is involved in Student Support Services (SSS), Select Student Support Services (4S), and the First Generation Student Organization. Her goal for when she graduates is to become a Human Resource Specialist so she can continue to help others within an organization whether it be with questions or concerns, resources, or anything that can help the workplace improve. Valeria looks forward to serving on the Alumni Society Board as a Student Representative, where she can provide insight from a student’s prospective as a current Dearborn Wolverine. Go Blue! Go Dearborn!
 

Cadence Pero is a junior at the University of Michigan-Dearborn and is currently on a 4+1 path to earn both her bachelors and masters degrees in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a minor in psychology. Cadence is passionate about making a difference in the lives of people who are often stigmatized and isolated from the rest of society. She is particularly enthused about the combined healing process for recovery in conjunction with teaching skills and supporting people on their journey of reintegrating into the community. Cadence’s active role in student involvement consists of being the Women’s Ice Hockey team captain as well as a member of the Women’s Golf team. Her leadership role as a captain has allowed her to create a positive environment for new students and assist in the transition into post-secondary education.