LWVLC Awards Leelanau Conservancy the Outstanding Community Member Award

Accepting the award on behalf of the Conservancy were Executive Director Tom Nelson, Natural Areas & Preserves Director Becky Hill, and Development Director ParisMorse.

The League of Women Voters of Leelanau County (LWVLC) presented three awards at its annual meeting on June 6, 2026.

The League's Outstanding Community Member Award was presented to the Leelanau Conservancy in recognition of its decades-long commitment to protecting the landscapes, shorelines, and natural areas that define the region. League members specifically acknowledged the Conservancy's successful effort to preserve Sugar Loaf Mountain, ensuring that this treasured landmark remains protected "For Everyone, Forever."

Accepting the award on behalf of the Conservancy were Executive Director Tom Nelson, Natural Areas & Preserves Director Becky Hill, and Development Director Paris Morse.

The League also presented its Vina Mikesell Outstanding Member Award, named in honor of the League's founding president, whose vision and leadership helped establish the organization in Leelanau County. For only the second time in the League's history, the award was shared by two recipients.

Board member Deb Fellows was recognized for bringing decades of editorial and publishing experience to the League's communications efforts. Her leadership in developing the League's new website and expanding its digital and social media presence has strengthened the organization's ability to connect with voters, potential voters and the broader community.

Jane Gale, a longtime board member and community advocate, was honored for her many years of dedicated service. Her leadership in financial development and early childhood initiatives has helped advance several of the League's most important priorities. In the coming year, she will co-chair the League's Advocacy Committee alongside former president and retired Judge Marian Kromkowski.