LANSING, Mich. — Capital Area Michigan Works! (CAMW!) is proud to celebrate several members of its Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) team who were recognized during Youth Solutions’ annual Summer Summit, a statewide professional development conference that brings together JMG specialists, managers, employer partners and youth from across Michigan.

Held in Mount Pleasant, Summer Summit serves as Youth Solutions’ annual kickoff to the new program year. The multiday conference provides professional development, networking opportunities and strategic planning while recognizing outstanding individuals and organizations that made a significant impact to the program over the past year.

”We are incredibly proud of the work our partners do to help Lansing-area youth overcome challenges and thrive,” CAMW! CEO Carrie Rosingana said. ”The dedication these professionals have for their students, their program and each other shows in the work they do every day, and we’re thrilled to see it recognized in this way.”

This year, the following members of the Lansing School District and Peckham Inc. — CAMW! grantees that administer JMG programming — were honored for their exceptional leadership and dedication to student success:

• Outstanding Specialist of the Year, given for consistent all-around excellence: 

  • Chad Behl, Peckham

• Living Our Values – Transformational, recognizing a commitment to positive change:

  • Steven Lopez, Lansing School District

• JMG Team MVP, awarded to those going above and beyond to support their teammates:

  • Elizabeth Curry, Peckham

• Guiding Light Award, given to a program manager who drives excellence:

  • Tracy Tanner, Peckham

Together, these professionals have helped students overcome barriers, build career readiness skills, connect with employers and prepare for successful futures. Their dedication reflects the mission of Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates and the positive impact the program continues to have throughout the Capital region.

”Summer Summit gives us the opportunity to celebrate the incredible professionals who make a difference in the lives of young people every day,” said Roger Curtis, executive director of Youth Solutions. ”These award recipients exemplify the passion, commitment, and excellence that strengthen the Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates network and help prepare Michigan youth for successful futures.”

To learn more about all of this year’s award winners, click here.