LWVLC Elects New Leaders and Sets Priorities For 2026-27

The League of Women Voters of Leelanau County (LWVLC) celebrated civic leadership, community service, and a renewed commitment to strengthening democracy during its Annual Meeting held on June 6.

LWVLC's vibrant annual meeting included the election of new leadership and a commitment to the focus of our work for the upcoming year. Other highlights were the annual awards, a keynote address by Steve Redding on the constitutional rights we all need to know in the face of ICE, a delicious lunch, and a standing ovation for outgoing president Nancy Duck.

New Leadership for 2026–27

The Annual Meeting also marked the election of new officers and board members.

Janet Welch was elected President for a two-year term, with Joan Hunault elected Vice President. Natalie Wilson will continue to serve as Secretary, and Gary Bardenhagen will continue to serve as Treasurer.

Newly elected board members serving two-year terms are Deb Kuhn, Elaine Piper, and Martha Shaver. Continuing board members are Jane Gale, Jacquie Johnson, and Susan Wood. The board will also include appointed members Becky Beauchamp, Tricia Denton, Deb Fellows, retired Judge Marian Kromkowski, Nancy Lewis, and Susan Och. Members also elected Dana (Sam) Getsinger as Chair of the Nominating Committee and Vera

Hernandez as a committee member.

In addition to approving the League's 2026–27 budget, members adopted bylaw changes that will establish a co-presidency model beginning July 1, 2027.

The League also approved its Local Program for the coming year under a new guiding theme: Stand Up for Democracy.

This framework reflects the League's ongoing commitment to strengthening civic participation through five key priorities:

• Lead voter service efforts through voter registration, candidate forums, and trusted election information.

• Educate and advocate on issues including housing, immigration practices, and civic education.

• Promote government accountability through the League's Observer Corps.

• Champion early childhood initiatives that support children and families.

• Host timely public forums that engage, educate, and empower the community.

Every election is an opportunity to shape the future of our communities. Every informed voter strengthens our democracy. Join us!