BDC's Annual Fall Event – Focus On the Future

BDC’s annual fall event was held at Monroe County Community College’s La-Z-Boy Center on Wednesday evening, September 13. We had over 50 business leaders, elected officials and education professionals in attendance.

Our event started with welcoming comments from Monroe County’s Board Chair, Doug Chaffin. He then introduced our key note speaker, Doug Rothwell, President & CEO of Business Leaders for Michigan.

Mr. Rothwell spoke about their 2016-17 plan for Michigan that lays out crucial steps to make us a “Top Ten” state, one that produces good jobs, higher incomes, and a healthy economy. Mr. Rothwell defined the five priorities that Business Leaders for Michigan is working on to help the State of Michigan which include strengthening the state’s fiscal stability, attracting talent, investing in infrastructure, encouraging economic development, and leveraging the state’s current assets.

Rothwell noted, “We need to celebrate the comeback we have made as a state, but our job is not done. We have gone from being the worst state 6 to 7 years ago to now being an average performing state. Average is just that. We have more work to do.” To learn more about Business Leaders for Michigan and their plan, click on the above link.

Last but not least, Dr. Kojo Quartey, Monroe County Community College’s President & CEO, introduced their Trustees’ Chair, Lynette Dowler. She presented the MCCC Business & Industry Supporter of the Year award to the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters for their countless man hours spent on marketing and spreading the word on the recently passed capital improvement milage. Michael Jackson, Jr. and Michael Davis, Jr. joined us to accept the award on their behalf. This millage is helping transform not only MCCC but the future of Monroe County.

Thanks to all who were able to join us for this exciting evening. We have heard many comments that people left feeling energized and empowered about the future of Monroe County and our state!