Michigan Education Association Executive and Leadership Team

Lu Battaglieri, the President at Michigan Education Association, leads the organization in its mission to represent and support public education professionals. As the primary voice for members, the President drives advocacy efforts that influence state-level educational policy and funding. Lu Battaglieri collaborates with the board to define the long-term vision for member engagement and professional growth. This leadership role requires constant interaction with stakeholders to ensure that the needs of educators remain at the forefront of the public discourse. By championing collective bargaining rights, the President secures essential protections for the workforce. The President also oversees the implementation of programs designed to enhance the professional standing of teachers and support staff. Through strategic outreach and consistent communication, the President maintains the integrity of the association, ensuring that the organization remains a powerful force for positive change within the Michigan educational landscape.

Kay Walker-Telma, the President at Michigan Education Association, focuses on the expansion of member services and the strengthening of local union chapters. By providing guidance to regional leaders, the President ensures that the organization delivers consistent support to educators throughout the state. Kay Walker-Telma architects initiatives that promote professional development and classroom excellence, directly impacting the quality of public education. This role involves navigating complex labor relations and advocating for fair compensation packages for all members. The President works closely with the executive team to align organizational resources with the specific needs of diverse educational environments. By fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual support, the President empowers members to advocate for their own professional interests. Through persistent engagement with the membership base, the President drives the association toward achieving its core objectives of representation and educational equity.

Douglas Wilcox, the USO President at Michigan Education Association, manages the specific operational requirements of the United Staff Organization to ensure seamless support for the broader membership. By overseeing the internal labor dynamics, the USO President maintains the stability of the workforce that serves the association's members. Douglas Wilcox coordinates with other executive leaders to align staff activities with the overarching goals of the organization. This role involves resolving complex personnel issues and fostering a productive environment for all employees. The USO President drives initiatives that improve the efficiency of member-facing services, ensuring that the association remains responsive to the needs of educators. By focusing on the operational health of the staff organization, the USO President contributes to the overall success of the association. Through diligent management and strategic planning, the USO President ensures that the organization continues to provide high-quality support to its members.

Steven Cook, the President at Michigan Education Association, spearheads the organization's efforts to influence legislative outcomes that affect public school funding and teacher certification. By engaging with policymakers, the President ensures that the interests of educators are represented in critical state-level decisions. Steven Cook oversees the development of campaigns that highlight the importance of public education and the value of professional representation. This role involves building coalitions with other advocacy groups to amplify the voice of the membership. The President drives the strategic direction of the association, ensuring that all activities support the goal of improving the educational experience for students and teachers alike. By maintaining a strong presence in the public sphere, the President secures the future of the organization as a leading advocate for public school employees. Through visionary leadership, the President guides the association toward sustained growth and increased influence.

Roy Freeman, the Region 5 Mea Board Member, President Dowagiac Esp at Michigan Education Association, represents the specific interests of educational support professionals within the regional governance structure. By serving on the board, the Region 5 Mea Board Member, President Dowagiac Esp ensures that the concerns of local members reach the highest levels of organizational decision-making. Roy Freeman facilitates communication between the regional membership and the state-level leadership, fostering a unified approach to advocacy. This role involves organizing local efforts to address workplace challenges and promoting the professional development of support staff. By championing the unique needs of the Dowagiac community, the board member strengthens the overall impact of the association. Through active participation in board meetings, the board member contributes to the development of policies that benefit all members. By maintaining strong local connections, the board member ensures that the association remains grounded in the realities of the classroom.

Barbara Brotherton, the President at Michigan Education Association, focuses on the integration of technology and modern communication tools to enhance member engagement. By modernizing the way the association interacts with its members, the President ensures that information is accessible and actionable. Barbara Brotherton drives initiatives that provide members with the resources needed to succeed in an increasingly digital educational environment. This role involves overseeing the implementation of new platforms that streamline member services and support. The President works with the executive team to ensure that the association remains at the forefront of educational innovation. By prioritizing the needs of the membership, the President fosters a sense of community and shared purpose. Through strategic investment in digital infrastructure, the President improves the efficiency of the organization's advocacy efforts. By leading with a focus on the future, the President ensures that the association remains relevant and effective.

Melissa Cisneros, the Region 15 President at Michigan Education Association, manages the regional operations and member support services for the designated area. By providing direct assistance to local chapters, the Region 15 President ensures that members receive the necessary guidance to navigate professional challenges. Melissa Cisneros coordinates regional events and training sessions that promote the professional growth of educators. This role involves building strong relationships with local school districts to advocate for fair labor practices and improved working conditions. The regional president drives the implementation of state-level initiatives at the local level, ensuring consistency across the organization. By fostering a collaborative environment, the regional president empowers members to take an active role in their professional representation. Through consistent engagement and support, the regional president strengthens the association's presence in the community. By focusing on regional needs, the regional president contributes to the overall success of the organization.

Blake Mazurek, the Chief of Staff at Michigan Education Association, directs internal operations and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives to support the organization's mission. By managing administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff ensures that internal resources align with the needs of educators in higher education and K-12 settings. Blake Mazurek facilitates communication between the executive leadership and the board, fostering a cohesive environment for policy implementation. This role involves overseeing the daily execution of strategic goals, ensuring that the organization maintains its focus on member representation. Through rigorous oversight of operational efficiency, the Chief of Staff strengthens the capacity of the association to advocate for public school employees. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff enables the organization to respond effectively to evolving educational policy challenges across the state, ultimately securing better working conditions for all members.