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2026 Detroit Policy Conference: A New Leadership Era
Last Month, the 2026 Detroit Policy Conference convened business leaders, government officials, and community changemakers to drive meaningful conversations and actionable solutions for a more prosperous and equitable Detroit Region.
Held at The Department at Hudson’s, the Conference explored the leadership transitions underway and on the horizon for the Region and state and featured the bold, adaptive leaders at the helm.
Explore highlights from the Conference below.
Detroit’s New Era: Mayor Sheffield’s Future-Focused Leadership |
Following her video remarks, Melvin “Butch” Hollowell, who is leading Mary Sheffield’s transition, took to the stage to discuss where the committees’ work stands and how the administration is progressing.
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Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield was attending the U.S. Conference of Mayors Winter Meeting in Washington, D.C., and was unable to attend the Conference. However, in a pre-recorded video, Sheffield emphasized that building strong partnerships between businesses and neighborhoods will remain at the heart of Detroit’s ongoing revitalization efforts.
Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing), Business Leaders for Michigan’s Jeff Donofrio, the Chamber’s Greg Handel, and University of Detroit Mercy’s Donald B. Taylor discussed Michigan’s challenges in K-12 performance and per capita income, emphasizing equity-centered policy and innovation.Detroit’s First Word: Industry Leaders on Expanding Wayne County Transit |
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During a panel moderated by the Chamber’s Brian J. Shoaf, Wayne County Deputy Executive Assad I. Turfe and SMART’s Tiffany J. Gunter shared how they are changing the conversation around the expansion of transit in the Detroit Region.Mike Duggan: Unity is Needed for Michigan to Succeed |
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During the Conference, Independent Gubernatorial Candidate Mike Duggan spoke about the inspiration behind his bid for governor and discussed the hot-button topics that Michigan’s next leader will need to address.
Beyond the Bill: Rep. Karl Bohnak (R-Deerton) |
This week, the Chamber is spotlighting Michigan State Rep. Karl Bohnak (R- |
Beyond the Bill is a new segment that features a Michigan Legislator for Detroit Regional Chamber members to get to know on a more personal level and highlight their legislative priorities for Michiganders.
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