Foundation Board of Directors

Leadership That Expands Opportunity

The Glen Oaks Community College Foundation is strengthened by the dedication and leadership of community members who believe in the power of education. Our Board of Directors is composed of committed local leaders who bring experience, insight, and a shared passion for student success.

Together, they guide the Foundation’s mission to expand access, remove financial barriers, and create opportunities that help students across southern Michigan and northern Indiana reach their goals. Their leadership ensures that philanthropic support directly advances the college and serves our regional communities.

Board Structure and Governance

The Glen Oaks Community College Foundation Board of Directors is composed of up to seventeen members, including as many as fourteen public directors.

Public directors are elected through a nomination process led by the Nominating Committee. The committee reviews nominations and presents recommendations to the full Board for approval. Public directors serve three-year terms and may serve up to three consecutive terms with Board approval. After completing three consecutive terms, a director must step away for one year before being eligible to return.

The President of the Board is elected annually by the Board of Directors.

This governance structure ensures continuity, accountability, and strong community representation in advancing the Foundation’s work.

Executive Committee

  • Phyllis Youga, President – Retired
  • John Dresser, Vice President – Attorney, Dresser Law
  • Dr. Philip G. Ward, Secretary – Retired
  • Christopher Chupp, Treasurer – CPA, R.W. LaPine
  • Dr. Bryan Newton – President, Glen Oaks Community College

Board Members

  • Elizabeth Datkovic – Board of Trustee Liaison, Glen Oaks Community College
  • Mary Dechow – Retired
  • Dr. Artur Ebert – Superintendent, Sturgis Public Schools
  • Kathy Earl – Retired
  • Jim Freiburger – Retired
  • Bret Hamlin – Owner, Sturgis Martial Arts
  • Tracie Labadie – VP of Finance & Administration, Glen Oaks Community College
  • Michelle McNamara – GOCC Communications Faculty
  • Jay Newman – Founding Partner, Culture By Choice
  • Matt Scheske – President/COO, Sturgis Bank
  • Andrew Wingard – Executive Director, Glen Oaks Community College Foundation
  • Christopher (Kip) Young – KalBlue Group

Supporting Students. Strengthening Our Region.

The Foundation Board works in partnership with college leadership to support scholarships, program enhancements, and initiatives aligned with the college’s mission to provide opportunities for academic and lifelong success .

Their service reflects Glen Oaks’ core values of collaboration, integrity, transparency, and a student-centered approach to decision-making.

To learn more about how to support the Foundation or get involved, visit the Alumni & Foundation section of our website.