YWCA Women of Achievement 2022
Lifetime Achievement Award
Bridgette Gransden
Bridgette is the County of Midland Administrator, and she began her career at the County in 1994 as the Finance Director and transitioned to her current role in 2009. Prior to working at the County she spent three years in the public accounting arena where she earned her certification as a CPA. Although her degree focused on accounting and finances, she quickly discovered her passion for good government upon making the commitment to public service. From being the valedictorian of Northwood to numerous leadership roles she has set the standard of excellence for women and gone out of her way to mentor others along the way. She has been recognized by many organizations for her service, and was the recipient of the Leadership Midland Leader of the year - 2011, United Way Chair/ Torchbearer Award-2016, Beaverton High Distinguished Alumni Award-2016, Junior Achievement Laureate Award- 2019, and the Midland Business Alliance ATHENA Award - 2022. Bridgette’s career committed to public service and her focus on the community moved the Women of Achievement selection committee to recognizing her as the sole Lifetime Achievement award recipient for 2022.
Civic & Nonprofit
Barbara Clark
Barbara founded the Saginaw County Chapter of Parents of Murdered Children in 2013 as a resource and support group for parents who have had the life changing experience of losing a child through homicide. Putting aside the horrendous tragedy her and her family had suffered she turned her pain into purpose. Her volunteerism and selfless support for families living through tragedy is a quintessential example of a servant leader and the reason why she was selected to receive this recognition. Although retired, Barbara still serves on the Board of Advisors for P.O.M.C. and is a vocal advocate in the Saginaw Community.
Arts & Education
Diane Rapson Gabil
Diane has been a lifelong learner and advocate for education for all children. She has been involved with special needs individuals and programs since 1969. Beginning in 1981, Diane was hired by the YWCA to be the director of Camp Meadows, a summer enrichment day camp program for special needs children. The program was extremely successful and was expanded to Greener Pastures in 1991 and Open Fields in 2012. Diane’s depth and length of service, as well as her 40 years of work for the YWCA, and other examples of community volunteerism, made her outstanding contributions to Education worthy of recognition.
Healthcare
Mary Greeley
Mary Greeley excels in all her professional and community service endeavors because she possesses the perfect balance of professionalism, empathy, compassion and a servant’s heart. She embraces the challenges of her work and volunteerism with relentless preparation and diligent focus on improving the lives of MyMichigan Health employees, its patients and underserved populations in our region. Mary began her career at MyMichigan Health in 1992 as a Dietician. She served as our Diabetes Center Manager from 1992-2011 before transitioning to her current, dual role of Corporate Vice President of MyMichigan Health and President of MyMichigan Health Network. Mary is an active member of her community, serving on many non-profit boards and humbly volunteering in service to those in need.
Business & Entrepreneurship
Lonnie Paser
Lonnie is the Co-Owner and Chef of Artisan Urban Bistro. The welcoming atmosphere, and the support for the local community are obvious to anyone who dines at Artisan Urban Bistro. However, that local support goes beyond creating a menu and into a community dynamic unique in Saginaw. Lonnie and her crew “share the wealth, share the community.” She has hosted fundraisers for community projects, and on Wednesdays Artisan Urband Bistro hosts an unlimited Grateful Pasta meal where portions of the proceeds support a chosen local nonprofit organization that aligns with the ethics and values of the Bistro. The dedication to her community, and perseverance to run a business with a philanthropic spirit, in the face of challenging economic conditions, is one of the reasons she was selected for this award.
Social Justice & Advocacy
Dr. Gina Wilson
Dr. Wilson has been a long-time educator in our region serving in leadership roles at Carrollton Public Schools and at Windover High School helping underserved and vulnerable populations, ensuring they succeed. She is currently a professor in the educational leadership department at Central Michigan University. Her entire professional and volunteer career has been dedicated to serving and advocating for others. Dr. Wilson has been an active participant in the Midland Cultural Awareness Coalition, and has led a number of workshops for educators and community members on other diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, belonging (DEIJB) topics such as critical race theory, navigating different opinions, and how to create inclusive spaces.