From celebrating the completion of major initiatives to riding out funding challenges and unexpected leadership changes, 2025 delivered big wins and big uncertainties for northern Michigan’s institutions and organizations. As 2026 commences, here’s what some of their leaders told us about their goals heading into it and their hopes for community involvement in the year ahead.
 
“I want to bring people in our community together for an opportunity to network and meet like-minded people, regardless of your age or where you're at [in] your career. I want people to feel connected and empowered. Let's lift each other up, share conversations and laughter and grow together.”  - Margaret Williams, Program Chair for Traverse City Young Professionals Committee
 
“My goal for 2026 is tackling the space demands at Old Town Playhouse (OTP). Our programs, the volunteers who are involved and the patrons that enjoy live theatre have been on a healthy growth trajectory. This is exciting. This will be the year that OTP sets its vision and course for the future.”
- Deb Jackson, Executive Director of Old Town Playhouse
 
“My resolution is to make sure more students from Northern Michigan can say ‘yes’ to Interlochen. Thanks to generous donor support, we’re introducing a new Northern Michigan Opportunity Scholarship and pushing our scholarship support further than ever.” - Trey Devey, President of Interlochen Arts Academy
 
“In 2026, Up North Pride will continue our search for a permanent location to call home, expanding our programming, and connecting people to resources in their community. We envision a year filled with inclusion, joy, and gratitude; join us in making that a reality!” - Aaron Wright, President of Up North Pride
 
“The year 2026 will be a time to refocus and recenter on the health of our community, strengthening and reshaping how we in public health provide essential services to meet the needs of those we serve. Grand Traverse County has experienced considerable growth and change in how our community lives, works, travels through, and interacts with its environment. As the public health department, it is our responsibility and goal in 2026 to ensure that we evolve and improve alongside our community so we can effectively meet and support new and emerging needs.” - Michael Lahey, Health Officer for Grand Traverse County Health Department
 
“Like most people, I have a goal to read more books this year! Even librarians want to read more books. All joking aside, when I look ahead to 2026, TADL's goal is to joyfully connect our community with knowledge and stories. Together, we hope to continue to create a brighter, more connected and literate community for us all. Most importantly, we'll remind people that reading is fun!” - Michele Howard, Director of Traverse Area District Library
 
“This year, my goal is to share the magic of northern Michigan with my children while working to stabilize VOCA [Victims of Crime Act] and strengthen CAC [Children’s Advocacy Centers] funding. As need grows, I remain committed to protecting essential services and advancing a community rooted in care and the deep belief that every child deserves to be safe, supported, and never overlooked.” - Lander Bachert, CEO of Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center
 
“We’ve got a seriously fun lineup of parks and facilities projects coming your way in 2026! From the Civic Center to Medalie Park, the Natural Education Reserve, Vasa Trailhead, and our newest gem – Camp Greilick – we’re investing nearly $2 million to make these spaces even more awesome. On the facilities side, we’re rolling out new tools to help us serve you better, upgrade our buildings, and make smarter decisions every step of the way. As for me? I’m pumped to spend more time with family, get lost in the woods, and play in a kayak. Bring on 2026!” - John Chase, Director of Parks & Facilities for Grand Traverse County
 
“2026 is a big year for the DDA! In addition to keeping downtown clean, green, safe, and walkable, we’re focused on telling our story while completing the Farmers Market Pavilion, bringing Rotary Square to life, and securing the Moving Downtown Forward TIF Plan. I’d also love every storefront filled with local spirit.” - Harry Burkholder, Executive Director for Traverse City DDA
 
“Thanks to tremendous community support over the past 35 years, we are thrilled to celebrate a milestone anniversary for the Dennos Museum Center in 2026. Keep an eye out for a refreshed museum brand, celebratory programs, and more. Looking forward to the next 35 years of campus and community service!” - Craig Hadley, Executive Director and Chief Curator of Dennos Museum Center
 
“In the year ahead, we’re focused on strengthening access to care for our community by meeting people where they are, reducing barriers, and expanding services that truly make a difference in our patients' lives.  Our goal is simple: keep showing up for the communities we serve with compassion, quality, and consistency.” - Casey Kandow, CEO of Traverse Health Clinic
 
“I’m aiming to have more of our community experience the entrepreneurial energy we at 20Fathoms get to see every day.  For instance, let’s pack Traverse City Opera House at our quarterly TCNewTech startup pitch competition. It would be fantastic to have more of the broader community see “Innovation as a Community Asset” on full display!” - Craig Wesley, Executive Director of 20Fathoms
 
“My goal at the Builders Exchange is to expand opportunity for contractors by delivering a comprehensive Autodesk-focused training series, beginning with Bluebeam and Procore, and growing to include additional industry-leading tools that strengthen workforce skills and competitiveness.” - Lisa Radke, Executive Director of Builders Exchange of Northwest Michigan
 
“As director of Human Nature School, I work to help people build meaningful connections with nature. This coming year, we’re expanding school outreach, offering outdoor skills for all ages, and partnering with community groups to advance HNS’s mission of deepening human–nature connection. Come enjoy nature with us!” - Sarah Brummel, Director of Human Nature School
 
“My vision for 2026 for Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) is for us to take our mission of "Improving lives by linking people and communities" to the next level.  I see us reviewing our current services and ridership and filling in gaps where needed with safe and reliable transportation services to better serve the Grand Traverse and Leelanau County communities.” - Chris Davis, Interim Executive Director of BATA
 
“My first year on our school board has been full of learning (so much to learn!) — and my goal for 2026 is to keep growing. I completed my Level I Michigan Association of School Boards certification this year and am committed to keep learning next year so I can better serve all 8,750+ of our kids.” - Ty Schmidt, TCAPS Board of Education Trustee