MPLP Alumni Elected Across Michigan
EAST LANSING, Mich., November 5, 2025 – Yesterday, Michigan voters went to the polls to elect local officials across the state, and again, Alumni of the Michigan Political Leadership Program (MPLP) are well represented. Founded in 1992, MPLP has trained over 750 fellows, with the majority going on to serve in elected or appointed office. The program is administered by the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research (IPPSR) at Michigan State University, is unique due to its bipartisan nature and focus on working across the political aisle.
Last night's MPLP Alumni elected included:
Michael Sullivan (2021) - Grandville City Council
Abby Klomparens (2022) - Holland City Council
Annie Brown (2011) - Mayor, South Haven
Denzel McCampbell (2017) - Detroit City Council, Dist. 7
Theresa Orlaske Rich (2021) - Mayor, Farmington Hills
Michele Young Hodges (2011) - Mayor, Grosse Pointe Park
Scott Benson (2011) - Detroit City Council, Dist. 3
Adding Peter Spadafore (2008) – Lansing City Council, Ward 4
“It's been said that all politics is local, and it's true that most of the issues citizens deal with day to day start at the local level,” said Corwin Smidt, Interim Director of IPPSR. Smidt continued, “IPPSR is incredibly proud that so many of our Alumni have chosen to serve at the local level. I congratulate them on their election, and I wish them future success.”
Each year, MPLP recruits 24 fellows from around Michigan, evenly split between Republican and Democratic applicants. After selection, the twenty-four fellows tour Michigan and discuss significant issues facing the state and local communities with local renowned experts.
More information on MPLP can be found here.
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