Michigan Education Association Executive and Leadership Team

Kay Walker-Telma, the President at Michigan Education Association, leads statewide advocacy efforts focused on legislative policy and public education funding. By representing the collective voice of educators, the President shapes the strategic direction of the organization to influence state-level educational standards. Kay Walker-Telma engages with policymakers to secure resources for classrooms and protect the professional rights of teachers. This leadership role requires constant interaction with the Board to ensure that the association remains responsive to the evolving needs of members in higher education and public schools. By championing initiatives that improve working conditions, the President drives significant improvements in the educational environment. Through consistent outreach and public engagement, the President elevates the profile of the association, ensuring that the interests of Michigan educators remain at the forefront of the state's political agenda while fostering a culture of unity and professional excellence.

Lu Battaglieri, the President at Michigan Education Association, focuses on the expansion of member services and the strengthening of local bargaining units. By analyzing labor trends and educational shifts, the President develops programs that provide tangible benefits to educators across the state. Lu Battaglieri oversees the implementation of professional development frameworks that enhance teaching efficacy and career longevity. This role involves collaborating with regional leaders to ensure that the association's resources effectively address the unique challenges faced by diverse school districts. By prioritizing member engagement and grassroots organizing, the President builds a resilient network of advocates capable of navigating complex educational landscapes. Through strategic planning and resource allocation, the President ensures that the association remains a powerful force for teacher representation, consistently delivering value to members while maintaining a strong, unified front in the pursuit of equitable educational opportunities for all students.

Roy Freeman, the Region 5 Mea Board Member, President Dowagiac Esp at Michigan Education Association, manages regional governance and local chapter representation. By serving as a bridge between local educational support personnel and the state-level board, the Region 5 Mea Board Member, President Dowagiac Esp ensures that the specific needs of support staff receive adequate attention. Roy Freeman coordinates regional meetings and facilitates the flow of information regarding collective bargaining and member rights. This leadership role involves mentoring local chapter leaders and providing guidance on contract negotiations to ensure fair treatment for all support professionals. By fostering strong connections within the region, the Region 5 Mea Board Member, President Dowagiac Esp strengthens the overall influence of the association. Through active participation in board deliberations, the Region 5 Mea Board Member, President Dowagiac Esp contributes to the development of statewide policies that protect the livelihoods of essential school employees.

Barbara Brotherton, the President at Michigan Education Association, directs initiatives aimed at enhancing the professional status of educators and promoting public school excellence. By spearheading campaigns that highlight the value of public education, the President builds community support and strengthens the association's public image. Barbara Brotherton works closely with the Board to define long-term goals that align with the changing needs of the teaching profession. This role involves overseeing the development of training programs that equip members with the skills necessary to navigate modern classroom challenges. By fostering partnerships with other educational organizations, the President expands the reach and impact of the association's advocacy efforts. Through strategic leadership, the President ensures that the organization remains a vital resource for educators, consistently driving progress in educational policy and practice while maintaining a steadfast commitment to the rights and well-being of all members.

Steven Cook, the President at Michigan Education Association, oversees the strategic alignment of the organization's political action committees and legislative lobbying efforts. By mobilizing members to participate in the democratic process, the President ensures that the voices of educators influence state policy decisions. Steven Cook manages high-level relationships with key stakeholders to advocate for sustainable funding models and improved educational infrastructure. This leadership role involves analyzing the impact of proposed legislation on the teaching profession and crafting responses that protect member interests. By providing clear direction on political strategy, the President empowers local chapters to engage effectively in their respective communities. Through consistent advocacy and public communication, the President strengthens the association's position as a leading authority on educational issues, ensuring that the needs of students and teachers remain central to the state's legislative priorities and long-term educational vision.

Melissa Cisneros, the Region 15 President at Michigan Education Association, leads regional operations and coordinates member support services within the designated geographic area. By facilitating communication between local chapters and the state office, the Region 15 President ensures that members have access to necessary legal and professional resources. Melissa Cisneros oversees the implementation of regional training sessions and workshops designed to improve member engagement and leadership skills. This role involves addressing local concerns and providing support during contract negotiations to ensure that the rights of educators are upheld. By fostering a collaborative environment, the Region 15 President builds a strong network of advocates who are prepared to address the challenges facing public education. Through proactive leadership and consistent outreach, the Region 15 President strengthens the association's presence at the local level, ensuring that the needs of members are met with efficiency and dedication.

Douglas Wilcox, the USO President at Michigan Education Association, manages the operational and strategic functions of the United Staff Organization. By overseeing the representation of staff members, the USO President ensures that internal labor relations remain productive and aligned with the association's mission. Douglas Wilcox coordinates with other leadership tiers to integrate staff perspectives into the broader organizational strategy. This role involves negotiating collective bargaining agreements and resolving workplace issues to maintain a positive and effective working environment. By championing the professional development of staff, the USO President enhances the overall capacity of the association to serve its members. Through diligent management and clear communication, the USO President fosters a culture of mutual respect and collaboration. By ensuring that staff needs are addressed, the USO President directly contributes to the stability and success of the entire organization, supporting the mission of providing high-quality representation to all members.

Blake Mazurek, the Chief of Staff at Michigan Education Association, directs internal administrative workflows and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives to support the organization's mission. By managing executive communications and aligning operational priorities with the broader goals of the membership, the Chief of Staff ensures seamless execution of strategic directives. Blake Mazurek facilitates collaboration between the leadership team and various internal committees, fostering an environment of efficiency and transparency. This role involves overseeing the implementation of policies that impact educators throughout the state, ensuring that resources reach local chapters effectively. Through rigorous oversight of organizational processes, the Chief of Staff maintains the structural integrity of the association. By streamlining decision-making protocols, the Chief of Staff strengthens the capacity of the organization to advocate for teachers in higher education and K-12 settings, ultimately driving long-term stability and member satisfaction across the entire Michigan landscape.