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Cultural advocacy network of michigan

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Cultural Advocacy Network of Michigan Announces New Board of Directors 

The Cultural Advocacy Network of Michigan (CAN) is thrilled to introduce its newly elected Board of Directors. These leaders bring a wealth of experience and passion for the arts and culture sector, and CAN is excited to welcome them as they work together to advance the cultural landscape across Michigan.


Lisa Craig Brisson - Executive Director, Michigan Museums Association: Lisa brings a strong background in nonprofit leadership and community engagement, with extensive experience in the museum sector.


Jennifer Rupp - President/CEO, Michigan Humanities: A dedicated advocate for the arts and culture community,, Jennifer is committed to fostering connections and inspiring community engagement across Michigan.She possesses almost 20 years of nonprofit leadership and capacity building experience.


Claire Herhold - Michigan History Day Manager, Historical Society of Michigan: Claire is an active public historian with a passion for bringing Michigan's rich history to life.


Erik Jacobson - Executive Director of the Michigan School Vocal Music Association, combines his expertise in music education with a strategic approach to arts administration.


Mary Jennings - Executive Director, Grand Rapids Ballet: With over a decade of arts administration experience, Mary is dedicated to advancing the performing arts in Michigan.


Micah Ling - Public Programs Coordinator, Michigan Traditional Arts Program: Micah is a seasoned public folklorist, community-engaged researcher, and folk musician with a deep passion for celebrating and supporting Michigan’s cultural traditions.

Deb Polich - President/CEO, Artrain and Creative Washtenaw: Deb is a longtime arts + creative industries executive  with more than  30 years of experience in leading state and national organizations while advocating for the field.


Sarah Rice - Chair, Iron Mountain Public Arts Advisory Committee, UP Arts and Culture Alliance: Sarah is a dedicated leader in public arts initiatives in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.


Brenda Rigdon - Executive Director, Michigan Historic Preservation Network: Brenda is an expert in historic preservation and redevelopment, with a strong focus on Michigan’s architectural heritage.


Amy Spadafore - Managing Director, Pit & Balcony Community Theatre: A dynamic arts leader, Amy is deeply engaged in Saginaw’s arts community and advocates for inclusive cultural initiatives.


Mike Szukhent - President/CEO, Michigan Festivals and Events Association: Mike brings extensive experience in event management, leading efforts to celebrate Michigan’s vibrant festival culture.


Ara Topouzian - Armenian-American musician Ara is a nationally recognized, award-winning artist with over 30 years of experience. He brings a unique cultural perspective to the board, along with a wealth of experience in leading nonprofit associations.

CAN is a statewide organization dedicated to advocating for the arts and culture sector in Michigan. Through education, advocacy, and community building, CAN works to ensure that the cultural sector is supported and valued. The new board members are poised to make significant contributions to the mission of CAN, and we look forward to the exciting work ahead.

About Us

We are a statewide, membership-based organization dedicated to ensuring cultural leaders have the tools necessary to provide services of the highest quality.

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