LANSING, Mich. — Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) is proud to announce that Doug Leisenring, superintendent for Delta-Schoolcraft Intermediate School District in the Upper Peninsula, is joining its board of directors as a member at large. Leisenring brings over 30 years of experience in K-12 education, including 24 years as a teacher and administrator in the Escanaba Area School District.
“I am excited to join MCAN’s board of directors and provide the perspectives of rural educators in Northern Michigan,” said Leisenring. “I’ve worked with the Delta County College Access Network and MCAN since 2010, and I hope that by sharing my experiences with the board, we can expand the reach and effectiveness of MCAN’s programs and services in other rural communities in our state.”
Leisenring earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics from Michigan Technological University and a Master of Arts in educational administration from Northern Michigan University. He was recognized as the Michigan Elementary and Middle School Principals Association Region 14 Principal of the Year in 2003, inducted into the Michigan Technological University Academy of Educators in 2010 and was named the Michigan High School Principal of the Year in 2015 by the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals.
“Engaging rural students — especially low-income students, first-generation college-going students and students of color — is vital to our movement toward Sixty by 30. These communities are often under-resourced, and distance from postsecondary institutions can create additional barriers,” said Ryan Fewins-Bliss, MCAN executive director. “MCAN is honored to welcome Doug Leisenring to our board, and we look forward to using his insights to improve college access and success in Michigan’s rural communities.”
MCAN also recently announced the executive committee that will lead its board of directors over the next two years. Sara McCauley, founder and president of Strategic Policy Consultants, is serving as MCAN's new board chairperson. Sharon Mortensen, president and CEO of the Midland Area Community Foundation, is serving as vice chairperson, and David Gamlin, vice president and program director of the Midnight Golf Program, is serving as secretary. Catherine M. McNamara, partner at BDO USA, continues to serve as treasurer. Former board chairperson Maddy Day remains on the board as a member at-large.
To learn more about MCAN’s board of directors, visit micollegeaccess.org/board.
Upper Peninsula superintendent brings rural perspective, K-12 experience to MCAN leadership