meet the board
InvestUP’s board, composed of CEOs and Presidents from some of the region’s largest employers, has identified strategic objectives for the Upper Peninsula.
Matt Johnson (Chair)
Manager of External Affairs, Eagle Mine
Debb Brunell (Vice Chair)
CEO, Upper Peninsula Michigan Works!
Rick Nebel (Secretary)
CEO, Peoples State Bank of Munising
Roxanne Daust (Treasurer), President & CEO, Range Bank
- Chris Bender, President, Northcross Group
- Nicole Blemberg, CEO, NMU Foundation
- Tonya Darner, CEO, UP Health System – Marquette & Bell
- Mike Fedrizzi, Director of U.P. Regional Sales & Operations, Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan
- Gradon Haehnel, CEO, UPPCO
- Steve Hicks, President & CEO, JM Longyear
- Melissa Holmquist, CEO, Upper Peninsula Health Plan
- Ryan Korpela, General Manager, Cleveland-Cliffs
- Richard J. Koubek, President, Michigan Technological University
- Todd LaFave, CFO, Daniel J. Kobasic Foundation
- Patrick Lamb, Site Operations Manager, Carmeuse
- Robert Lehto, CEO, TriMedia Environmental & Engineering
- Robert Mach, CEO, Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital
- Paul Meneghini, Manager, Community Engagement, Enbridge
- Zachary J. Meyer, Partner, Varnum LLP
- Meagen Morrison, Manager of External Relations, White Pine Copper LLC
- Chris Olsen, President, Northern Michigan University
- Karyn Olsson, CEO, Marketing Department, Inc.
- Barry O’Shea, CEO, Highland Copper Company, Inc.
- Kelly Reed, Client Advisor & Partner – Acrisure Midwest Division
- David Rowe, CEO, MTEC SmartZone
- Todd Sabourin, Senior Vice President, Marquette Office, Miron Construction Co., Inc.
- Michael Stone, Partner, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
- Joe Thiel, CEO, Innovate Marquette SmartZone/Invent@NMU
- Steve Vairo, CEO, Calumet Electronics
- Steve Verrette, Chairman/CEO, Champion, Inc
- Jennifer Watson, CEO, Limestone Financial Credit Union
Karyn Olsson (Chair)
CEO, Marketing Department, Inc.
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At nearly two decades old, Marketing Department, Inc. is recognized as Michigan’s most experienced B2B marketing firm. Their seasoned team of coaches’ guides small businesses to help align people and processes with the basic principles of marketing to create momentum and growth, allowing small businesses to cut waste, move faster, and take control of their brand and spending.
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Matt Johnson (Vice Chair)
Manager of External Affairs, Eagle Mine
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Eagle Mine is an underground nickel and copper mine was the first permitted under Michigan’s Part 632 Non-Ferrous Mineral Mining Law and continues to operate under some of the country’s strictest mining regulations. With more than 85% of its direct and indirect hires coming from the U.P., Eagle Mine supports local jobs, public services, and long-term economic activity while maintaining a clear focus on safety, environmental protection, and responsible stewardship.
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Debb Brunell (Secretary)
CEO, Upper Peninsula Michigan Works!
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Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! helps connect people to opportunity and employers to the talent they need to grow. Across the region, the organization delivers localized workforce support through job fairs, free resume workshops, skills training, and direct access to state and federal programs that help job seekers build careers and help businesses succeed.
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Rick Nebel (Treasurer)
CEO, Peoples State Bank of Munising
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Peoples State Bank of Munising has been serving Alger County since 1910, building lasting relationships as a locally owned community bank people know and trust. With a focus on personalized service, dependable support, and modern banking tools, the bank helps residents and businesses plan ahead and grow with confidence. Committed to its role as a hometown financial partner, Peoples State Bank remains a steady presence in the region and in the communities it serves.
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Chris Bender
President, Northcross Group
Northcross Group (NCG) is a professional services firm that helps private and public sector clients navigate merger and acquisition integrations, system modernization, and compliance programs, with a focus on governance, risk, and compliance in highly regulated industries. Since 2006, NCG has paired deep expertise across sectors including financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, and defense with technology, data, and people-first solutions, including automated tooling and a SaaS platform that extends its capabilities.
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Roxanne Daust
President & CEO, Range Bank
Range Bank is an independent, locally owned community bank founded in 1887 and built around one clear focus, being the bank of choice in the communities it serves. Guided by its ROCKS values of Respect, Ownership, Community, Knowledge, and Strength, Range Bank pairs sound financial advice with personalized service and competitive products. That commitment to local relationships and long-term stability helps customers, businesses, and communities keep building a strong future.
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Tonya Darner
CEO, UP Health System – Marquette & Bell
UP Health System – Marquette & Bell brings together the experience and care networks to deliver healthcare across the Upper Peninsula. With hospitals, clinics, 65 specialties and subspecialties across all locations, and services that include the region’s only Level II Trauma Center and NICU, UP Health System helps keep advanced care close to home. With nearly 3,000 employees, providers, and volunteers, UP Health System makes good on their promise to make communities healthier.
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Mike Fredrizzi
Director of U.P. Regional Sales & Operations, Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is the state’s largest health insurer, serving more than 830,000 members with a long-standing focus on access to care, quality coverage, and healthier communities. Across Michigan, including the U.P., Blue Cross supports families and employers through plans like Blue Care Network and a range of programs designed to improve care quality and affordability. Through continued investment in wellness initiatives, provider partnerships, and community health programs, Blue Cross remains a trusted partner in building a healthier Michigan.
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Gradon Haehnel
CEO, UPPCO
The Upper Peninsula Power Company (UPPCO) is an independent electric utility serving approximately 52,000 customers across 10 counties in the Upper Peninsula, managing 4,450 miles of line and seven hydroelectric facilities. Alongside its focus on reliability, UPPCO is also investing in the future through grid upgrades, community support, aiming for 100% clean energy by 2040 in compliance with state laws.
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Steve Hicks
President & CEO, JM Longyear
JM Longyear is a privately-held entrepreneurial asset management company based in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with a 150-year track record for embracing opportunity and growing long-term value in the region.
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Melissa Holmquist
CEO, Upper Peninsula Health Plan
Upper Peninsula Health Plan has spent more than 20 years working to improve health and well-being across the Upper Peninsula. Based in Marquette, UPHP partners with providers, employers, and community organizations to help more than 55,000 members access care through Medicaid, MIChild, Healthy Michigan, and other programs. That work goes beyond coverage, with a continued focus on partnerships and community-based solutions that help build a healthier U.P.
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Ryan Korpela
General Manager, Cleveland-Cliffs
Cleveland-Cliffs is North America’s largest flat-rolled steel producer and one of the most vertically integrated steelmakers in the industry, with operations spanning iron ore mining, pellet production, steelmaking, stamping, and tubing. That end-to-end approach allows the company to deliver high-quality steel products to sectors like automotive, manufacturing, and infrastructure while strengthening the domestic supply chain. The company has also reduced carbon emissions by 25% and continues to invest in operations that cut waste and improve water conservation.
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Richard J. Koubek
President, Michigan Technological University
Michigan Technological University is an R1 flagship research institution that prepares more than 7,000 students to lead in science, engineering, technology, and applied research. With 185+ degree programs, more than $100 million in annual research expenditures, and graduates ranked among the top 20 nationwide for early-career earnings, Michigan Tech is a major driver of innovation and talent in the U.P. and beyond.
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Todd LaFave
Todd LaFave, CFO, Daniel J. Kobasic Foundation
The Daniel J. Kobasic Foundation supports education and community projects that help people build skills, careers, and brighter futures, with a strong focus on practical pathways that make a difference close to home. Based in Escanaba, the foundation’s giving includes scholarships that support students pursuing high-demand fields such as STEM, nursing, and welding. Through that investment, the foundation is helping strengthen both individual opportunities and the long-term workforce of the U.P.
Patrick Lamb
Site Operations Manager, Carmeuse
Carmeuse Americas is a leading manufacturer of lime and limestone products, serving customers with the materials, equipment, and services needed to improve processes, strengthen safety, and ensure reliable supply. From mining and material processing to environmental engineering, Carmeuse combines industry expertise with a strong focus on trust, integrity, and innovation. Their commitment to sustainable practices and community impact reflects a broader mission to improve lives while helping industries operate more effectively.
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Robert Lehto
CEO, TriMedia Environmental & Engineering
TriMedia Environmental & Engineering has provided professional services since 1995 that help clients create safer work environments. Serving industries that range from mining and manufacturing to healthcare and construction, TriMedia offers expertise in environmental services, health and safety, industrial hygiene, GIS, and land surveying. Their team is known for taking the time to understand each project, communicate clearly, and deliver solutions that align with both operational needs and budget.
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Robert Mach
CEO, Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital
Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital (SMH) is a critical access hospital serving Schoolcraft County and the surrounding region with a wide range of services, from a 24/7 physician-staffed Emergency Department to specialty care, surgery, rehabilitation, HomeCare, and Hospice. Since 1950, SMH has continued to evolve to meet community needs, including major investments in its modern US-2 campus and expanded rehabilitation, aquatic therapy, and infusion services. Built on trust and focused on access to care close to home, SMH remains a cornerstone of a healthy and thriving region.
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Paul Meneghini
Manager, Community Engagement, Enbridge
Enbridge is an energy infrastructure company transporting oil, natural gas, and liquids through a large-scale delivery network.
At the center of its work is a commitment to reliable energy supply, balanced with a long-term focus on sustainability and innovation. Through continued investment in renewables and a goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, the company is working to meet today’s energy needs while planning responsibly for the future.
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Zachary J. Meyer
Partner, Varnum LLP
Varnum LLP has been a trusted legal partner for businesses for more than a century, offering counsel across areas including corporate law, litigation, real estate, and finance. Alongside serving established companies, Varnum also supports high-potential entrepreneurs through MiSpringboard, a program that helps qualifying startups overcome early legal hurdles with pro bono services. With a strong focus on service, strategy, and long-term success, Varnum helps businesses stay prepared and positioned for growth.
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Brian Norman
Director-External & Legislative Affairs, AT&T
AT&T has spent nearly 150 years building the networks that keep people, businesses, and emergency responders connected. Through continued investment in 5G, fiber, and FirstNet, the company is expanding reliable connectivity while also working to close the digital divide through affordable access, digital literacy efforts, and community support. In Michigan and the U.P., that means stronger coverage, better public safety communications, and more opportunities for residents, students, and small businesses to connect, learn, and work.
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Chris Olsen
President, Northern Michigan University
Founded in 1899, Northern Michigan University is a four-year public university in Marquette with more than 7,000 students and over 170 degree options, including 25 graduate programs. Teaching is led by full-time faculty at every level, with more than 75% holding the highest degree in their fields. The mission focuses on empowering learners with meaningful experiences that open doors, strengthening the U.P., and preparing graduates to lead.
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Barry O’Shea
CEO, Highland Copper Company, Inc.
Highland Copper is a development-stage mining company committed to advancing its Copperwood Mine Project in Gogebic County and producing copper responsibly while honoring the environmental, economic, and social fabric of the region. The company is focused on supporting the clean energy transition, creating family-sustaining jobs, and strengthening critical mineral supply chains across the U.S. through projects like Copperwood and its proactive ESG initiatives.
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Kelly Reed
Client Advisor & Partner – Acrisure Midwest Division
Acrisure is a global leader in business and insurance solutions, helping organizations manage risk, adapt to change, and pursue growth with confidence. By combining advanced technology with personalized service, Acrisure delivers tailored solutions that help clients navigate complex challenges and evolving needs. That approach supports business success, fuels economic activity, and creates opportunity in the U.P. and beyond.
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David Rowe
CEO, MTEC SmartZone
MTEC SmartZone helps turn innovation into opportunity in the U.P. by connecting startups and entrepreneurs with mentoring, business resources, capital, and university-industry partnerships that move ideas toward commercialization. Since 2003, its clients have raised nearly $600 million in follow-on funding, underscoring the strength of the Keweenaw’s innovation economy. As a key driver of regional growth, MTEC SmartZone is helping build the next generation of businesses shaping the U.P.’s future.
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Todd Sabourin
Senior Vice President, Marquette Office, Miron Construction Co., Inc.
Miron Construction is a family-owned firm that has delivered construction services since 1918, with expertise spanning preconstruction, construction management, design-build, industrial, and general construction. With 1,700 team members and a regional office in Marquette, Miron helps plan and build projects that strengthen communities across the Midwest and in the U.P. Known for its focus on safety, transparency, and craftsmanship, Miron continues to build spaces and partnerships designed to last.
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Michael Stone
Partner, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
Warner Norcross + Judd LLP has delivered strategic legal counsel since 1931, serving clients across areas including corporate law, litigation, intellectual property, and mergers and acquisitions. Known as one of Michigan’s leading law firms, Warner combines deep expertise with a collaborative, results-driven approach. Their client-first model, including direct access to the right attorney without gatekeepers, helps businesses move efficiently and with confidence.
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Joe Thiel
CEO, Innovate Marquette SmartZone/Invent@NMU
Innovate Marquette SmartZone supports startups and small businesses with the mentorship, funding connections, research partnerships, and workspace needed to grow from concept to commercialization. Since 2015, the organization has helped strengthen the U.P.’s innovation economy with a focus on outdoor innovation, creative technology, and sustainable practices. Through its partnership with Northern Michigan University and leadership of Invent@NMU, Innovate Marquette also helps guide entrepreneurs through product development and business launch.
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Steve Vairo
CEO, Calumet Electronics
Calumet Electronics is a national leader in printed circuit boards and IC substrates, serving critical industries such as defense, aerospace, medical, energy, and industrial technology since 1968. Alongside its advanced manufacturing and engineering capabilities, the company remains committed to creating long-term, family-sustaining careers in the U.P. Calumet also invests heavily in the next generation through STEM and CTE partnerships, support for Michigan Tech’s IPC Student Chapter, and a strong internship program that helps build the future workforce.
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Steve Verrette
Chairman/CEO, Champion, Inc
Champion, Inc. has spent more than a century building across the Upper Peninsula, growing from a single gravel operation into a diversified company with operations in ready-mix concrete, mechanical supply, and full-service construction. Through businesses including Champion Concrete, Champion Charter, and Gundlach Champion, the company continues to invest in the U.P.’s economic strength with deep local roots and broad regional impact. That commitment also extends beyond the job site through a culture of community involvement, service, and local leadership.
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Jennifer Watson
CEO, Limestone Financial Credit Union
Since 1955, Limestone Financial Credit Union has grown from a garage-based cooperative to a trusted financial partner serving Schoolcraft and Chippewa counties. As a member-owned and not-for-profit Credit Union, Limestone focuses on service, education, and advocacy - pairing competitive products and modern technology with the personal support U.P. families count on. From youth programs to financial coaching, their team is committed to building a better financial tomorrow for the communities they serve.
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NMU Foundation
The NMU Foundation helps advance Northern Michigan University’s strategic goals by connecting donors with meaningful opportunities to support students, programs, and campus growth. As NMU’s official gift-receiving agency, the Foundation stewards a wide range of philanthropic giving that expands academic opportunity, supports infrastructure, and strengthens the university’s long-term impact. From immediate needs to legacy gifts, the NMU Foundation helps turn generosity into lasting progress for NMU and the region.
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White Pine Copper
The NMU Foundation helps advance Northern Michigan University’s strategic goals by connecting donors with meaningful opportunities to support students, programs, and campus growth. As NMU’s official gift-receiving agency, the Foundation stewards a wide range of philanthropic giving that expands academic opportunity, supports infrastructure, and strengthens the university’s long-term impact. From immediate needs to legacy gifts, the NMU Foundation helps turn generosity into lasting progress for NMU and the region.
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