CAMW! recognizes outstanding staff members for their dedication and contributions to the Lansing region.
LANSING, Mich. — Capital Area Michigan Works! (CAMW!) announced its 2024 award recipients during its December joint board meeting, including two individuals honored with the Leonard Peters Lifetime Achievement Award.
The Leonard Peters Award, established to recognize individuals who have provided a lifetime of outstanding service to CAMW! and the Lansing workforce, was presented to Edythe Copeland and David Pohl for their strong commitment to workforce development and their long-standing leadership at the organization.
Edythe Copeland, former CEO of CAMW!, joined CAMW! in 1997 and served as CEO from 2013 until her retirement in 2020. As the first woman and first person of color to lead the organization, she left a lasting mark on workforce development in Michigan. Under her leadership, CAMW! saw transformative growth and built partnerships that strengthened the community, according to CAMW! CEO Carrie Rosingana.
“Edee used her voice, expertise and passion to shape the workforce system around her to make it better, leaving a deeply rooted legacy that continues to be felt today,” said Rosingana. “Anyone who has the honor to know Edee knows that she cares deeply, gives of herself tirelessly and continues to inspire after retirement.”
David Pohl, who has served on the CAMW! administrative board for over ten years, was also recognized with both the Leonard Peters Lifetime Achievement Award and Workforce Champion Award. According to Rosingana, Pohl is known for his integrity and excellence in advocating on behalf of his community. He has worked tirelessly to support the mission of CAMW! and to address the needs of the region he serves.
“Dave’s ability to listen, collaborate and support consensus-building has strengthened the cohesion of our board and fostered an environment of trust and respect,” Rosingana said. “While his voice may not always be the loudest given his calm demeanor, when Dave speaks, we all listen. Our organization is stronger due to Dave’s contributions to it.”
CAMW! additionally recognized Joseph Brehler, a previous Leonard Peters recipient, with the Workforce Champion Award. During his almost 20 years of serving on the Administrative Board and Workforce Development Board, Brehler has gone above and beyond to ensure that goals are met and CAMW!’s mission is advanced as an agency that serves the people of our communities.
“Joe is passionate about helping all people and has always spoken up not only for our agency but on behalf of our staff members,” Rosingana said. “His insight, wisdom and strategic thinking have consistently shaped key decisions that have propelled CAMW! forward.”
Rebecca Bahar-Cook was recognized for her excellent leadership with the Workforce Champion Award, following her two years of service as a board chair. Furthermore, Employment Specialist Kayla Schultz and Special Projects Liaison Erin McKenzie were both recognized for their five years of service at CAMW!. Schultz is responsible for assisting job seekers and employers with using the Pure Michigan Talent Connect website, and McKenzie manages the operation of special grant projects for CAMW!, including the implementation and development of new programs and grants.
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ABOUT CAMW!
Capital Area Michigan Works!, a proud partner of the American Job Center network, connects with businesses to develop recruiting and retention strategies and strengthens the local workforce by enhancing education and career opportunities for job seekers. Learn more at www.camw.org.
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