Emerging Leaders

Holle Angelotti

The difference one person can make, again and again

In a community where collaboration isn’t required, people like Holle Angellotti choose it anyway. Through consistent acts—from reading to young students to encouraging retirees to try something new—this 40 Under 40 awardee shows how connection is built in everyday moments.

Rob VanDorin
Award-winning leader Rob VanDorin focuses on community connection

Rob VanDorin is helping shape Mt. Pleasant by doing more than just talking about change—he’s showing up for it. Recently honored for his community leadership, his work connects CMU and the broader community in meaningful ways.

Amy Weaver
Amy Weaver’s nonprofit leadership plays a key role in Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum’s success

At Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum, creating meaningful experiences for children and families takes more than what visitors see on the exhibit floor. As human resources director, Amy Weaver works behind the scenes to support staff, coordinate volunteers, and help shape the museum’s direction.

Blake Cahill
How one local environmental expert helps protect Michigan’s aquatic systems

As an environmental quality analyst with the state and a volunteer with the Chippewa Watershed Conservancy, Blake Cahill blends science, service, and community engagement to safeguard native ecosystems and reconnect people with the natural world around them.

Manuela Powidayko
From Brazil to NYC to Michigan: Manuela Powidayko’s path to planning Mt. Pleasant

Behind Mt. Pleasant’s development is city planner Manuela Powidayko, whose career has taken her from Brazil to NYC to mid Michigan. Her mission: create public spaces that bring people together and support a thriving, adaptable community. Learn more about this recent 40 Under 40 awardee.

Mid Michigan 40 Under 40 2025
Mid Michigan 40 Under 40 Class of 2025 announced

Aimed at celebrating and recognizing young professionals under the age of 40, the Middle Michigan Development Corporation and Greater Gratiot Development Inc. announce the 2025 40 Under 40 Awardees.

Brittany Milan Mt. Pleasant
Brittany Milan champions collaboration between campus and community

As part of our Emerging Leaders series featuring 40 Under 40 Award recipients, Brittany Milan—CMU’s director of alumni and donor engagement—is strengthening bonds between Central Michigan University and the Mt. Pleasant community through alumni connection, mentorship, and partnerships that foster pride and shared success across Michigan.

Running Toward Impact: Claire Doty’s marathon of service

Claire Doty has mastered the art of balance—between her professional role at CMU and her extensive community service in Mt. Pleasant. Her story shows how patience, passion, and even the smallest acts of service can create lasting impact in the community she calls home.

From the Edit Suite to the Sprinklers: Inside the life of Christian Driessnack

Christian Driessnack of Align Digital turned a high school hobby into a career capturing Mt. Pleasant’s stories and weddings. Learn how this Emerging Leader balances business, creativity, and family—while giving back to the community he calls home.

How a passion for community became a career of impact

Tiffany Eisenberger, resource development manager at United Way of Greater Central Michigan, helps ensure community resources reach those who need them most. Learn how this 40 Under 40 emerging leader stepped out of her comfort zone to become a behind-the-scenes changemaker—and why she believes it’s the small moments that build a more resilient community.

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