CLIENT STORY: Wharton Center for Performing Arts: Sutton Foster Awards: Celebrating Michigan’s High School Musical Theater Stars

High school musical theater takes center stage in Michigan every year at the Sutton Foster Awards, a celebration that goes far beyond trophies and applause. Named after Broadway star Sutton Foster, this event brings together students from across the state to perform, learn, and connect with a community that will inspire them for years to come. For many, it’s a transformative experience—part performance showcase, part professional training, and part family reunion for theater lovers.

A Celebration of Michigan’s High School Theater

The Sutton Foster Awards honor the dedication, creativity, and passion of high school theater programs throughout Michigan. Schools submit their musicals for review by professional adjudicators—industry veterans who provide detailed feedback that helps programs grow. This process recognizes excellence while offering constructive advice, ensuring that even the smallest theater programs have the chance to improve and shine.

But the awards aren’t just about recognition. They’re about opportunity—giving young performers the tools, insight, and encouragement they need to take the next step, whether that’s Broadway, college, or simply a lifelong love of the arts.

The Wharton Center Experience

After the adjudication process, selected students gather at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts in East Lansing. Here, the magic begins. Participants work side by side with peers from across Michigan, all sharing the same passion for theater. They attend masterclasses with Broadway professionals, receive vocal and acting coaching, and perform on a world-class stage.

For many students, it’s the first time they’ve been immersed in a professional theater environment. The experience opens their eyes to new techniques, new possibilities, and a broader understanding of the craft.

“When you work with these professionals, you get a glimpse into the industry and know exactly what you need to work on—both personally and within your community,” one participant shared.

More Than Just a Workshop

One of the defining features of the Sutton Foster Awards is the sense of belonging it creates. Students from diverse backgrounds and communities come together, setting aside school rivalries to form lasting friendships. In this environment, there’s no judgment—just creativity, collaboration, and support.

“Theater allows a place to be insane and just kind of let it out without the pressures of other people’s judgment,” said a student. “When you meet others with the same aspirations, it creates a healthy and fun community.”

Building Skills, Confidence, and Connections

The program’s benefits extend far beyond the weekend at the Wharton Center. Students leave with sharpened skills, constructive feedback, and a network of peers and mentors who can support them for years to come. Many alums remain connected, creating a statewide web of artists, educators, and advocates for the performing arts.

“When the students start making those connections, they have an initial link to arts professionals and a robust alumni network,” explained an organizer. “It’s building a great network of people as well as opportunities in the city and beyond.”

Why It Matters

The Sutton Foster Awards highlight the critical role of performing arts in schools. These programs are more than extracurricular activities—they foster empathy, resilience, teamwork, and confidence. They also serve as pathways for students who may want to pursue theater as a career.

“My personal belief is that the arts create good humans,” one mentor said. “And right now, we need good humans in the world.”

By validating and elevating the work of high school theater programs, the awards encourage schools to keep investing in the arts, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same opportunities.

A Day in the Life at the Awards

A typical day at the Sutton Foster Awards begins with students arriving at the Wharton Center, filled with both excitement and nerves. Morning workshops cover vocal warm-ups, acting exercises, and ice-breaking activities. Later, students participate in focused sessions—such as a dance masterclass or a behind-the-scenes look at a stage production.

In the afternoon, there are one-on-one coaching sessions and dress rehearsals to prepare for the evening’s big showcase. When the curtain finally rises, participants take to the stage in front of a packed audience, followed by an awards ceremony that celebrates their hard work and talent.

Beyond the Stage

The impact of the Sutton Foster Awards doesn’t end when the lights dim. Schools return home with new ideas and energy for their theater programs. Students take their newfound skills and confidence into future productions, classrooms, and communities. Many alums go on to study theater in college, perform professionally, or become educators themselves—continuing the cycle of inspiration.
How to Get Involved

Any Michigan high school producing a musical can participate. Schools submit their shows for adjudication, receive feedback, and may have students nominated to attend the Wharton Center experience. Top award-winners can even advance to the National High School Musical Theatre Awards (Jimmy Awards) in New York City.

Whether a student dreams of a career on stage or simply loves performing, the Sutton Foster Awards provide an unforgettable opportunity to grow, connect, and belong.

The Legacy Continues

Year after year, the Sutton Foster Awards prove that when young artists are given encouragement, resources, and a supportive community, they can thrive. They remind everyone—students, educators, and audiences alike—that the arts matter deeply, not only for the performers but for the world they help create.

With each curtain call, the next generation of Michigan’s theater talent steps forward—ready to dream bigger, reach higher, and shine brighter.

Nubian Shines Bright with Small Business Superstar Deucey Award Win

Nubian, a vibrant small business rooted in cultural pride and community spirit, has captured the spotlight by winning the *Small Business Superstar Video of the Year* at the prestigious Deucey Awards. Led by founder Rihab Musa, Nubian is more than a store—it’s a living celebration of African heritage, unity, and joy.

The name “Nubian” holds deep personal significance for Rihab, as it honors her roots in the Nubian tribe of Sudan. While the term is sometimes used casually, Rihab intends to educate and share the actual history, culture, and beauty of her heritage. From the moment customers step through the door, they’re welcomed into an experience that challenges stereotypes and celebrates Africa’s rich traditions.

Inside Nubian, visitors find a colorful mix of men’s and women’s clothing that blends traditional African designs with modern style, joyful children’s apparel, unique pet accessories, handcrafted jewelry, and all-natural skincare products. Every item is carefully chosen, representing not just craftsmanship, but a story.

This commitment to cultural representation took center stage during Nubian’s recent “Threads of Unity” event, held just one week before Election Day. At a time often marked by division, Rihab brought together community members—including state workers who modeled in the show—to symbolize harmony and togetherness. The event was a vibrant display of fashion, music, and shared connection.

Capturing the heart of this event was the award-winning video that earned Nubian the Deucey Award. Produced with exceptional quality and attention to detail, the video allowed Rihab to see moments she missed while working behind the scenes. It captured not only the fashion on display but also the smiles, reactions, and spirit of unity in the room.

For Rihab, the recognition was both unexpected and deeply meaningful. “Just being nominated was thrilling enough,” she shared, “but winning—it’s an honor I didn’t expect.” The award validated her mission, energized her team, and set a new standard for how Nubian will tell its story going forward.

The impact of the video extended far beyond the awards ceremony. It brought new followers to Nubian’s social media, increased store traffic, and provided a blueprint for future events. By showing what resonates with her audience, Rihab can continue to craft experiences that inspire, connect, and educate.

Behind the success was a seamless collaboration with the production team, which Rihab described as “10 out of 10—phenomenal.” Their ability to capture her vision without needing adjustments or reshoots made the final product even more rewarding.

Looking ahead, Rihab is determined to raise the bar. “Now I can’t expect anything less,” she said. Each event, each product, and each story shared will continue to embody the joy, artistry, and authenticity that define Nubian.

Nubian’s journey is a reminder that when business is rooted in passion, culture, and community, recognition follows naturally. For Rihab, the Deucey Award is not just a trophy—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when heritage and creativity meet with purpose.

To connect with Nubian or explore its latest offerings, email **nubianjewelrymail.com**.

INNOVATE STATE: Boldly Becoming Your Best Self

iNNOVATE STATE: Boldly Becoming Your Best Self

Innovate State: Boldly Becoming Your Best Self, hosted by the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation on Oct. 24, 2024, at Michigan State University, featured Charmaine Brown, CEO & Founder of Connextions Consulting, Inc & Simply Living Me, LLC.

CLIENT STORY: Discover Hope Sports Complex in Lansing, Michigan

Located on Lansing’s south side, the Hope Sports Complex can accommodate a variety of sports, including soccer, lacrosse, rugby, ultimate frisbee, archery, football, and many more.

The facility has bleacher seating for up to 1200 spectators, ample on-site parking, and concessions are available.

Cleats Bar & Grille is an on-site restaurant that also serves beer and wine.

Learn more at LansingSports.org

MISSION CONTROL: Empowering Women and Building Community With Rebecca Kasen

The Mission Control podcast, hosted by Paul Schmidt, offers an unfiltered look at the stories behind impactful nonprofit leadership. In this episode, listeners and readers are given a front-row seat to the journey of Rebecca Kasen, Executive Director of the Women’s Center of Greater Lansing (WCGL). What emerges is a powerful story of purpose-driven leadership, strategic transformation, and fierce commitment to community.

### Meet the Host and Guest

Paul Schmidt, creative video strategist at UnoDeuce Multimedia, has built a podcast that brings nonprofit stories to life. This episode introduces Rebecca Kasen (pronounced “Kay-sen”), a passionate and energetic leader who has revitalized WCGL through strategic vision, empathy, and collaboration. Rebecca’s work embodies the essence of mission-driven leadership, and her insights provide a roadmap for both aspiring and seasoned nonprofit professionals.

### The Mission: Empowerment With Flexibility

The Women’s Center of Greater Lansing has a clear mission: to empower women in the Lansing community, enabling them to achieve their unique potential. Rebecca emphasizes that empowerment is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Whether a woman needs counseling, career coaching, social support, or basic hygiene supplies, WCGL meets her where she is.

The Center’s approach is dynamic. Needs evolve, and so do services. Rebecca and her team keep their eyes and ears open, constantly adjusting programs to reflect the reality on the ground.

### From New Jersey to Lansing: A Pandemic Pivot

Rebecca Kasen didn’t plan on moving to Michigan. But when the pandemic confined her family of four in a small New Jersey apartment, change became necessary. A job opportunity in Lansing sparked their move across the country. Trading traffic noise for midwestern calm, Rebecca stepped into a city that would soon become the launchpad for her next professional chapter.

While adjusting to Lansing wasn’t without its humorous moments—like feeling out of place among MSU faculty parents—Rebecca’s adaptability and sense of humor smoothed the transition.

### A Career Built on Advocacy

Rebecca’s roots are in advocacy. Her early roles with Disability Rights New Jersey and Disability Rights Michigan exposed her to the policy and service sides of nonprofit work. Whether helping individuals secure vital services or advocating for statewide policy change, she always centered people’s lived experiences.

At Community Access Unlimited, she assumed a leadership role in legislative advocacy, advocating for funding and support for direct support professionals. This balance of micro and macro perspectives would later shape her leadership style at WCGL.

### Leading the Women’s Center

Rebecca’s path to WCGL was serendipitous. One bad day at her previous job led to some impulsive job applications. But when WCGL responded, Rebecca saw the potential right away. The Center’s \$167,000 annual budget and two-person staff weren’t daunting—they were an open canvas.

Three years later, Rebecca had nearly tripled the Center’s budget, expanded the staff to nine, and diversified the programming. Her leadership recipe included:

* Strong board support
* Creative autonomy
* A commitment to transparency and staff empowerment

She fosters an environment where staff are encouraged to grow—even if it means eventually pursuing better opportunities elsewhere. That’s the kind of leadership that builds loyalty and sustainability.

### The Programs That Make an Impact

WCGL offers an ever-growing menu of programs tailored to community needs. Among them:

* **Counseling Services**: A hybrid model allows clients with insurance to help subsidize care for those who can’t afford it or can’t safely use insurance.
* **Social Space and Computer Lab**: Drop-in areas foster connection, creativity, and job readiness.
* **Bold Steps Business Lab**: Up to 18 coaching sessions help women launch or grow small businesses.
* **Empower to Save Program**: A partnership with Adventure Credit Union helps women develop savings habits with matched incentives.
* **Hygiene Distribution**: High-need essentials are distributed to over 200 people on every open day.
* **Garden and Canning Workshops**: Teaching practical skills with an emphasis on accessibility.

These programs are supported by a flexible strategy that allows WCGL to pivot quickly. Rebecca knows that agility is a competitive advantage in the nonprofit world.

### Financial Growth and Sustainability

Upon joining WCGL, Rebecca discovered serious revenue gaps—particularly around insurance billing. With her mother’s background in nonprofit finance and her own problem-solving instincts, Rebecca restructured the Center’s funding model. Billing insurance where possible and using those funds to support low-income clients made a substantial difference.

This smart, adaptable approach is how WCGL grew its budget from \$167,000 to nearly \$500,000 in just three years.

### Collaboration Over Competition

In a nonprofit-rich city like Lansing, collaboration is key. Rebecca prioritizes partnerships over turf wars. Her team:

* Co-produces public events and performances
* Hosts workshops with culinary, financial, and wellness partners
* Coordinates referrals with other organizations to avoid duplicating services

Her dream? A cooperative retail incubator to complement existing kitchen incubators, allowing entrepreneurs to get retail experience before launching full businesses.

### The \$20 Million Dream

Rebecca isn’t content to rest on the progress already made. Her long-term vision includes:

* A larger, purpose-built headquarters
* Incubator retail space
* Accessible co-working areas
* An expanded career boutique
* Transitional housing for trafficking survivors and young adults

This dream complex would be a comprehensive women’s empowerment campus, providing comprehensive services to help women rebuild their lives.

### Wellness for the Warrior

Despite her packed schedule, Rebecca makes space for self-care. Whether it’s crafting, yoga, or planning real family vacations, she models healthy boundaries. Her Sunday yoga sessions are sacred, and even in her free time, she’s likely experimenting with a new art project.

### Advice for Aspiring Nonprofit Leaders

Rebecca offers practical advice: Honor the past while stepping boldly into the future. Her transition at WCGL was eased by building relationships with the organization’s founders, learning from them, and setting clear boundaries. She encourages leaders to:

* Seek wisdom from long-time supporters
* Avoid erasing legacy in the name of change
* Know when to make the organization their own

“Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater,” she says. Evolution and continuity can—and should—coexist.

### Staying Connected

Rebecca remains open to collaboration, new ideas, and conversation. She can be reached via:

* Email: [rebecca@lansingwomen.org](mailto:rebecca@lansingwomen.org)
* Social: WCGL is active on all major platforms

She’s always seeking partners, donors, and dreamers who want to help bring her vision to life.

### Closing Thoughts

Rebecca Kasen exemplifies what it means to lead with heart and strategy. Her story reminds us that real impact starts with a clear mission, a flexible approach, and a deep respect for community. From New Jersey roots to Michigan leadership, her journey inspires action.

Rebecca’s work proves that change happens when people care enough to build it—and bold enough to lead it.

—

*To hear Rebecca’s full story, subscribe to the Mission Control Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, or your favorite platform.*

ARTS ROLL-CALL: Cait Schneider–Reflections on Art and Nature

Welcome to episode 30 of Arts Roll Call, a podcast for the arts curious. Join host Robin Miner Swartz as she interviews artist Cait Schneider. They talk about Cait’s journey as an artist, her love of the earth and its beauty, and how the two connect within her work. She also shares about a new piece that just went up in REO Town.

About Arts Roll Call
Arts Roll Call pulls back the curtain to explore the lived experience of artists and arts organizations in the Greater Lansing region. Presented by Arts Council Greater Lansing and hosted by local celebrity Robin Miner-Swartz, this podcast was created to give the Council’s members an opportunity to share their thoughts and talk about the role of the arts and why they are important to the region and the community. Whether you are from the Greater Lansing area or not, if you are a lover of arts and culture, you will enjoy getting a peek into the creative minds of these leaders and makers in the arts. For more information on the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, visit lansingarts.org. This production is sponsored by UnoDeuce Multimedia and Miner-Swartz Editing & Consulting. Please Note: The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host, producers or the Arts Council of Greater Lansing.

CLIENT STORY: Communities in Schools of Michigan: Nurturing a Brighter Future Through Compassion and Community

When it comes to raising strong, resilient children, no one does it alone. It takes a village—mothers, mentors, neighbors, advocates, and allies—each doing their part to make sure every child feels safe, supported, and seen. That’s exactly what Communities In Schools (CIS) of Michigan embodies. Under the care-filled leadership of CEO Mallory DePrekel, CIS wraps its arms around students and families across the state, making sure no child falls through the cracks.

This mission is deeply maternal at its core. It’s not just about academic success—it’s about ensuring children have their most basic needs met: food, safety, love, and a sense of belonging. That maternal energy is also what drives community champions like State Senator Sarah Anthony and corporate partners like Jackson. Together, they nurture students not only through policy or funding, but with the intention and tenderness of caregivers determined to give every child a better future.

Senator Anthony’s advocacy is rooted in heart. Her words echo the love of a mother who refuses to let any child be left behind: “Children are really where my heart lies.” She’s not just showing up in the legislative chambers—she’s showing up emotionally and relationally, understanding the invisible weight many students carry.

Meanwhile, Jackson’s commitment goes beyond corporate giving. Their backpack drives—thousands strong—are an act of care, a gesture that says to each child, *You matter.* Their employees don’t just pack supplies; they pack encouragement and dignity into every bag, giving children the tools they need to walk into the school year with confidence.

CIS doesn’t stop at backpacks or supplies. They appear when glasses are missing, when stomachs are empty, and when housing feels unstable. Their approach is one of maternal stewardship—quietly observing, listening closely, and responding with action born of love. Like a mother who anticipates needs before they’re voiced, CIS asks, *What do you need to thrive?* and then does whatever it takes to deliver.

The disparities in Michigan schools—peeling walls in one district, polished floors in another—are jarring. But instead of looking away, CIS and its champions draw closer. Their work is not about charity. It’s about justice, equity, and care—the kind of radical, relentless care mothers are known for.

Every child deserves a champion, someone who won’t let them be forgotten. Through Communities In Schools, Senator Anthony, and Jackson, Michigan’s youth are being reminded daily that they are cherished, not overlooked. It’s a legacy of love that will shape generations to come.

But the work is not done yet. There’s always another child to nurture, another need to meet, another heart to uplift. Together, we all have a role to play in this great act of community mothering—one child, one act of love at a time.

Celebrating Success: Big Brothers Big Sisters Wins Most Outstanding Video of the Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters recently found itself in the spotlight for a powerful reason—winning *Most Outstanding Video of the Year* at the Deucey Awards. This exciting milestone highlights more than just a compelling video; it celebrates the heart of a community-driven mission and the people behind it. Executive Director **Megyn Forrest** and her team brought their story to life with authenticity, passion, and purpose—and UnoDeuce Multimedia was proud to help bring that story to the screen.

For Megyn, this wasn’t just a typical recognition. “It’s so exciting,” she said. “My team, my board—we’re all thrilled, and we’ve been shouting it from the rooftops.” That enthusiasm comes from knowing that this moment honors years of hard work and the deep relationships built through mentorship.

The video itself showcased not only the incredible impact of the “Bigs” and “Littles” but also lifted up the staff and community who make these connections possible. “What was really special is we were not only celebrating and highlighting our program and mentorship,” Megyn shared, “but also our team and staff—people who fully believe in our mission.”

This marked Big Brothers Big Sisters’ first collaboration with UnoDeuce, and the process was one of openness and trust. Megyn and her team invited the video crew to everything—events, interviews, daily interactions—creating an environment where authentic moments could unfold naturally. “The process was wonderful,” she said. “We loved working with you and your team.”

And the results speak for themselves. The video became a central piece of the organization’s *Big Breakfast*—their largest annual fundraiser—helping the community feel the impact of mentorship firsthand. “That’s where it made the most impact,” Megyn explained. “Hearing directly from the Bigs, Littles, and families—it brings the mission to life.”

When the nomination came, it was a surprise—but a welcome one. Megyn and her team quickly went to work rallying community support and using the spotlight to lift up not just their agency, but fellow nominees as well. “We saw it as an opportunity to celebrate all of us.”

Winning the Deucey Award was the cherry on top of an already meaningful experience. While the trophy is still on its way, the pride and excitement are already felt throughout the organization. And this win? It’s just the beginning.

Looking ahead, Big Brothers Big Sisters is more energized than ever. Megyn encourages the community to keep following their journey and get involved—whether by becoming a mentor, donating, attending events, or simply sharing the story.

Their message is clear: storytelling has power. And when done with heart, it can inspire an entire community to rally behind a mission. Here’s to big wins, big hearts, and the incredible work still to come.

INNOVATE STATE: Emerging Leaders: Crafting a Career in CPG

Emerging Leaders: Crafting a Career in CPG, hosted by the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation on Oct. 8, 2024, at Michigan State University, featured Brianna Makaric, Sr. Retail Marketing Manager of Ritual Zero Proof.

The Innovate State Speaker Series brings both emerging and accomplished Spartans back to campus for a fireside chat-style interview. These 60-minute sessions offer the chance for guests to share their perspectives on a wide array of topics like innovation, startup life, investments, and career paths. Students get the opportunity to hear firsthand about the hard knocks of the entrepreneurship & innovation hustle to maintaining work/life balance. These are stories of success, stories of failures, and stories of uncommon will.

MISSION CONTROL: Gabe Biber on Nonprofit Leadership, Local Food, and the Power of Place

On a recent episode of the *Mission Control* podcast, host Paul Schmidt sat down with Gabe Biber, Executive Director of Fenner Nature Conservancy in Lansing, Michigan. What unfolded was more than a conversation about trails and trees—it was an in-depth journey through nonprofit leadership, food justice, urban farming, and the personal and professional creativity that drives Gabe’s work.

Gabe’s path to Fenner wasn’t a straight line. From working in kitchens and community gardens to leading stream monitoring programs and coordinating food security projects, each step added to a broader understanding of how place, people, and sustainability intersect. His early work at the Greater Lansing Food Bank helped him connect with local communities, including refugee growers bringing rich agricultural traditions to Lansing’s urban soil. Gabe embraced the role of facilitator—someone who makes connections, listens, and helps people share knowledge and resources across cultures.

This work laid the foundation for his leadership philosophy. Later, at Haven House, a local shelter, Gabe assumed new responsibilities, transitioning from volunteer coordination to executive leadership. The transition taught him that nonprofit success isn’t just about operations—it’s about vision, relationship-building, and a commitment to systemic change.

Now at Fenner, Gabe leads a team focused on connecting people with nature right in the heart of Lansing. While many know Fenner for its trails and programs, Gabe is especially excited about its expansion into early childhood education. The Conservancy’s nature-based preschool is thriving, offering immersive outdoor learning experiences that spark curiosity and environmental stewardship in kids. For Gabe, this is about more than education—it’s planting seeds for future community leaders.

Throughout the conversation, one theme kept surfacing: creativity. Whether navigating the tensions of nonprofit collaboration, stepping into new leadership roles, or playing improv jazz after hours, Gabe sees creativity as a core tool. It helps him stay flexible, curious, and resilient in a field that rarely offers easy answers.

His advice for new community gardeners? “There’s no wrong way to do it.” The same could apply to nonprofit work—there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but there is value in showing up, listening, and growing together.

From systems change to stream stewardship, Gabe Biber’s story is a powerful example of nonprofit leadership grounded in humility, collaboration, and imagination. And as Paul reminded listeners at the close of the episode, it’s everyday changemakers like Gabe who help communities thrive.

You can connect with Gabe or learn more about Fenner at [mynaturecenter.org](https://www.mynaturecenter.org). To hear the whole conversation, check out the *Mission Control* podcast on YouTube or your favorite app.

**Stay curious. Stay grounded. And as always—keep reaching for Mission Control.**