MACD Thanks Lori Phalen, Retiring Executive Director

When we transitioned into 2021, a very special era ended as Lori Phalen stepped down as MACD's Executive Director.

It's been a busy year already, but we very much want to give a massive "Thank you!" (and a bittersweet farewell) to Lori as she embraces her well-earned retirement from the ED position. (Lucky for us, Lori will continue supporting MACD as our Grant Coordinator -- we couldn't let her go that fast.)

Lori has served as MACDs Executive Director for over 14 years, and has been pivotal to the success of MACD through her tenure. Her passion and advocacy have inspired many to take an active role in the conservation of Michigan’s natural resources.

Behind the scenes, Lori was a “Jill of all Traits,” juggling tasks from event management to fundraising to program development to website developing (including this one). Her tireless hours of dedication reflected her passion for Michigan’s natural resources.

Both Gerald "Jerry" Miller, MACD President, and Dan Moilanen, MACD's new Executive Director, shared their personal thanks and recollections of working with Lori during her time as our association's Executive Director.

"As a new District Director, I had heard stories about Lori being the glue that held MACD together," remembers Jerry. "When I met her for the first time I soon realized all of the stories of her ability to multi-task, know the details of all things a Director needed to know, and keeping 75 Conservation Districts informed were in fact true.

"When I moved into MACD leadership roles, Lori was my anchor who kept me from making lots of mistakes," Jerry added. "Throughout her career she has demonstrated great passion for Michigan’s soil, water, and natural resources.  Now in retirement, she can pick and chose where she wishes to place her continued emphasis.

"I know she will be there continuing to advocate for Conservation Districts and all that they do," said Jerry. "I wish her much happiness and enjoyment in the next phase of her life."

Dan couldn't agree more of his predecessor.

"I first started working with Lori when I was elected to the Genesee Conservation District Board of Directors, and joined the MACD Legislative Workgroup. I learned quickly that Lori was a great asset to the Michigan Conservation District community," recalls Dan. "Over her many years in service, she has made innumerable contributions to the well-being and stability of Michigan's Conservation Districts.

"I'm incredibly grateful for her help and mentorship in my transition as the new Executive Director at MACD," added Dan.

We are forever grateful for Lori’s time, commitment & tenacity. A hearty "THANK YOU!" from all of us at MACD, Lori!