Elizabeth Datkovic

Trustee & GOCC Foundation Liaison

Trustee Profile

Elizabeth Datkovic serves as a trustee and Foundation liaison for Glen Oaks Community College, bringing a powerful commitment to equity, education, and community empowerment. A multilingual educator and nonprofit founder, her life’s work reflects the transformative role education plays in expanding opportunity and strengthening communities.

Her service is grounded in lived experience, resilience, and a deep belief in access, inclusion, and lifelong learning.

Professional and Community Background

Born in Peru, Elizabeth began her professional journey with a master’s degree in communications from the Universidad Católica Santa María. She immigrated to the United States as an adult in 1980, relocating to Sturgis, Michigan with her two young children. At the time, she spoke four languages—but not English.

Determined to build a future for her family, Elizabeth moved to New York City and studied at Queens College, where she learned English and developed computer skills. She later earned a second master’s degree in adult education from Michigan State University, further preparing her to support adult learners and immigrant communities.

Elizabeth returned to Sturgis and spent 17 years teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) and Spanish across Sturgis Public Schools and other institutions, helping students gain language skills, confidence, and pathways to opportunity.

Service to Glen Oaks

As a member of the Board of Trustees and liaison to the Glen Oaks Community College Foundation, Elizabeth supports governance, policy oversight, and philanthropic engagement that advance student success and institutional sustainability. Her background in adult education and community advocacy informs thoughtful decision-making centered on access, inclusion, and long-term impact.

Her service reflects Glen Oaks’ mission to meet learners where they are and support diverse educational journeys.

Community Leadership and Recognition

In 1998, Elizabeth founded Centro de Ayuda, a nonprofit organization in Sturgis dedicated to empowering newcomers through education, advocacy, and community connection. Her leadership in this work has been recognized through numerous honors, including:

St. Joseph County Liberty Bell Award
Outstanding Leadership Award, State of Michigan
Sturgis Citizen of the Year
Hispanic Advocate Civil Duty Award, Telamon Farmworkers Corporation

Elizabeth is a current board member of Beacon Health System Three Rivers Hospital and previously served as Vice Chair of the St. Joseph Covered Bridge Clinic. Her work with these organizations reflects a continued commitment to improving access to healthcare and strengthening community wellbeing throughout the region.

Her entrepreneurial experience includes co-owning and operating Fiesta Mexicana in downtown Sturgis with her husband, Tony, for more than 12 years, contributing to the cultural and economic vitality of the community.

Governance Role

Trustees serve in a governance and policy-making capacity and are not involved in the day-to-day operations of the college. Operational leadership is provided by the President and executive leadership team.