President Carl Ferguson holds an M.B.A. from the University of Michigan and works as an independent grant writer for non-profits and local governments. Previously, he was Development Specialist for the Land Information Access Association, writing grants and implementing projects with a focus on youth environmental awareness and education. He is married with three daughters.
Vice President Gregory Kish is an attorney with Smith, Haughey, Rice, and Roegge in Traverse City, where he helps families with estate planning, elder law, and real estate matters. Previously, he designed programs and administered services for college students, which brought him experience in non-profit management and educational program development. Greg is married with two children.
Secretary Thomas Ackerson is a Certified Public Accountant with eighteen years of experience in audit, tax, and consulting. He is currently a Senior Manager with Rehmann’s healthcare management team and serves both physicians and dentists across Northwestern Michigan. He brings strength to the Museum through his financial background and management experience.
Trustee Ellen Fred is a Traverse City attorney specializing in land conservation, general real estate, and tax law, and representing tax-exempt conservation entities. Previously, she was co-founder and co-director of Humboldt Watershed Council in Eureka, CA; she has experience in governance and fundraising with nonprofit organizations. Ellen is married with one child.
Trustee Lauren Jeffries is a graduate of the University of Michigan Law School, currently pursuing a Master’s degree in environmental sciences from Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs. She brings both legal acumen and environmental science skills to the Museum Board. Lauren is married with two children.
Trustee Katie Lowran is the Deputy City Clerk for the city of Traverse City, and was an active participant in the Traverse City Chamber of Commerce Leadership Grand Traverse program. Katie has been a leader in a broad cross-section of community and national organizations involving children for the past 15 years. Katie has three children and a passion for children’s education.
Trustee John Parham was a police officer in Houston for almost 22 years, then directed a university law enforcement program in Minnesota, and was an associate professor and director of a graduate programs in Political Science, before moving to Michigan with his wife and son. With degrees in Economics, Public Administration, and Political Science, John now teaches online.
Trustee Cecily Sanford is an AMI-certified Montessori guide with many years’ experience. She is committed to addressing environmental concerns and to advocating for education, encouraging children to explore the world in ways that excite and inspire a deep appreciation for life. Married and a mother of three, she lives in Traverse city, where she delights in her family and all things “Leelanau.”
Trustee Dan Smith is co-founder and business development director at Flight Path Creative, a Traverse City-based advertising agency. He was raised in Mount Pleasant, MI; holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Western Michigan University; and has worked as a sales manager in the technology industry. An avid outdoorsman, Dan is married with one child.
