Class of 2025

Skip Nairne: A Life of Service, From the Front Lines to the Front Door 

If you’ve ever wondered what dedication looks like, it might just wear the name tag “Skip.” 

A proud military veteran, Skip Nairne has spent his life in service—first to his country, and now to his community. 

After hanging up his uniform, Skip didn’t slow down. Instead, he redirected his sense of duty into two of the most compassionate corners of public life: Meals on Wheels and the Freedom Center at Detroit Metro Airport. 

In Livonia, Skip is a familiar face to many seniors who rely on the Meals on Wheels program. With warmth and reliability, he delivers more than just hot meals—he delivers connection, dignity, and a reminder that no one is forgotten. His presence is often the highlight of someone’s day, and his commitment is unwavering, rain or shine. 

But Skip’s service doesn’t stop at city limits. At Detroit Metro Airport, he volunteers at the Freedom Center, a haven for active-duty military, veterans, and their families. There, he offers weary travelers a warm welcome, a quiet place to rest, and the kind of understanding that only comes from someone who’s walked in their boots. Whether it’s helping a soldier find their gate or simply offering a cup of coffee and a listening ear, Skip brings humanity to every interaction. 

His dual roles—feeding the homebound and comforting the traveling—are a testament to a life lived with purpose. He doesn’t seek recognition, but his impact is undeniable. 

In a world that often moves too fast to notice the helpers, Skip Nairne is a steady, compassionate force reminding us what community truly means. 

Cory Jacobson: A Visionary with a Passion for the Big Screen 

Cory Jacobson, founder and owner of Phoenix Theatres, has built more than a movie theater chain—he’s built a legacy rooted in revitalization, community, and a lifelong love of cinema. 

Headquartered in Livonia, Phoenix Theatres was launched in 2000 with a bold mission: to breathe new life into aging or abandoned theaters that larger chains had written off. That one theatre has now grown to 9 theatres nationwide where he continues to work on developing that mission. 

But Jacobson’s story starts long before that. At just 14 years old, he took his first job in the movie business—popping popcorn, fixing seats, and learning the ropes from the ground up. That early hands-on experience shaped his philosophy: no job is too small, and every detail matters. It’s a mindset that still defines his leadership today. Every member of his corporate team began their careers in entry-level theater roles, a testament to the company’s culture of growth and grit. 

Jacobson’s passion for restoring theaters isn’t just about business—it’s about community. He’s known for stepping into locations that others have abandoned, transforming them into vibrant gathering spaces once again. Whether it’s repainting floors, upgrading seating, or installing state-of-the-art projection systems, Phoenix Theatres brings a personal touch to each project. “We’re ground game people,” Jacobson says. “We work to become a part of the community”. 

That commitment was especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. While many theaters shuttered, Jacobson found ways to support local schools by offering theater spaces for socially distanced learning and events. He also worked with national health experts and industry leaders to develop safe reopening protocols, ensuring that moviegoers could return with confidence. 

Jacobson has also been a vocal advocate for the theatrical experience, pushing back against the trend of simultaneous streaming releases. He believes in the magic of the big screen and the communal joy of watching a film together—a belief that has helped Phoenix Theatres weather industry storms and emerge stronger. 

From humble beginnings to industry leadership, Cory Jacobson’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless dedication to both his craft and his community. And with each curtain rise, he continues to prove that the movies still matter—especially when they’re powered by heart. 

Jerry Pfeifer: The Quiet Force Behind Livonia’s Spirit of Service 

If Livonia had a heartbeat, it would echo the steady rhythm of people like Jerry Pfeifer—a lifelong volunteer whose dedication has quietly shaped the neighborhoods and networks that make this city thrive. 

A former Jaycee and current Livonia Lion, Jerry has long showcased that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about showing up. Whether organizing community events, mentoring young leaders, or rolling up his sleeves for service projects, he’s been a constant presence in Livonia’s civic life. His time with the Jaycees helped launch a generation of community-minded doers, while his ongoing work with the Lions Club reflects his deep compassion for those in need—especially the visually and hearing impaired. 

But Jerry’s impact doesn’t stop with service clubs. As president of his homeowner association, he’s been the glue that holds his neighborhood together—balancing the practical with the personal, and always advocating for a stronger, more connected community. 

What sets Jerry apart isn’t just the number of hours he’s given—it’s the spirit in which he gives them. He doesn’t seek recognition, but his influence is unmistakable. 

He embodies the very definition of volunteerism: consistent, humble, and driven by a belief that a better community starts with one person caring. 

Robert A. Ficano: A Legacy of Service, Labor, and Lessons 

Robert Ficano’s public life has been defined by ambition, resilience, and a deep-rooted connection to working-class values. Born in Detroit in 1952, Ficano grew up in a family that embodied the blue-collar ethic—his father was a custodian in Livonia Public Schools, and his grandfather worked at the Ford Rouge plant. These early influences shaped his lifelong affinity for organized labor, particularly the United Auto Workers, and informed his approach to public service. 

After earning his BA from Michigan State University and a JD from the University of Detroit, Ficano began his legal career as an attorney and assistant city attorney in Westland. But his trajectory shifted dramatically in 1983 when he was appointed Wayne County Sheriff. He went on to win five consecutive elections, becoming one of the longest-serving sheriffs in county history. Known for his operational discipline and law-and-order stance, Ficano built a reputation as a steady hand in turbulent times. 

In 2003, he was elected Wayne County Executive, taking the reins of one of the most populous counties in the United States. His tenure saw major initiatives, including the expansion of Cobo Center and the creation of a regional authority to manage it. He also stood firmly with Michigan’s autoworkers during the 2008 financial crisis, even purchasing TV ads in opposition to senators who resisted the auto industry bailout—a move that underscored his loyalty to labor and his willingness to take bold political stands. 

Ficano’s decades-long career left a lasting imprint on Wayne County. His story is one of early promise, deep community ties, and the challenges of navigating power in the public eye. He remains a figure who helped shape the political and civic landscape of southeast Michigan. 

Jerry and Pam Valentine: A Creative Duo at the Heart of Livonia’s Arts Scene 

For over a decade, Jerry and Pam Valentine have been more than just members of the Livonia Arts Commission—they’ve been its soul. 

Appointed in 2012, this dynamic pair has spent the last 12 years championing the arts in every form, from gallery exhibitions to community outreach. Their shared passion for creativity and service has made them fixtures in Livonia’s cultural landscape, inspiring artists and audiences alike. 

Jerry, a lifelong artist, brings a hands-on, heartfelt approach to his work. From his early days studying cartooning and painting to his award-winning woodcarvings, he’s never stopped exploring new mediums. He was a proud member of the Visual Arts Association of Livonia and the Three Cities Art Club, and he has led the Livonia Wood Carvers as president. Whether working in oils, acrylics, or watercolors, Jerry’s art reflects a deep curiosity and a love for storytelling through form and color. 

Pam, equally devoted, has been a steady force behind the art scene—organizing, supporting, and advocating for the arts with quiet strength and tireless energy. Hardly a day goes by without Pam committing on the positive of the town she calls home. 

Together, they’ve helped curate exhibitions, mentor emerging artists, and ensure that Livonia remains a place where creativity is not just welcomed but celebrated. 

Their partnership—both in life and in service—embodies the very mission of the Arts Commission: to sustain and elevate the arts as a vital part of community life. For Jerry and Pam, art isn’t just something you hang on a wall—it’s something you live, and share. 

Maureen Miller Brosnan: A Hometown Trailblazer with a Vision for Livonia’s Future 

Maureen Miller Brosnan isn’t just Livonia’s first female mayor—she’s a lifelong resident whose leadership is shaped by decades of civic service and a deep love for her hometown. Elected in 2019 and re-elected in 2023, Brosnan brings both institutional knowledge and fresh energy to the mayor’s office, overseeing a city of 95,000 residents and 4,000 businesses across 36 square miles. 

Before stepping into the city’s top job, Brosnan served nearly 17 years on the Livonia City Council, including terms as both Vice President and President. Her tenure on council helped lay the groundwork for her mayoral priorities: revitalizing neighborhoods, enhancing public services, and building a more connected, inclusive Livonia. 

A champion of long-term planning, Brosnan has been a driving force behind the Livonia Vision 21 Master Plan, a comprehensive roadmap for the city’s future. 

Her leadership extends beyond City Hall. Brosnan has served as Chairperson of the St. Mary Mercy Hospital Board of Directors and held executive roles with Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan and the Michigan Venture Capital Association. She’s also active in regional governance, chairing the Conference of Western Wayne and participating in the U.S. Conference of Mayors. 

Known for her collaborative style and steady hand, Brosnan has guided Livonia through challenges ranging from the COVID-19 pandemic to economic uncertainty, always with a focus on community resilience and smart growth. Her re-election in 2023 was not just a political win—it was a vote of confidence in her vision and her ability to deliver on it. 

Whether she’s breaking barriers or breaking ground, Maureen Miller Brosnan continues to shape Livonia’s story with purpose, passion, and a deep sense of place. 

Class of 2024

Sr. Nancy Jamroz–Madonna University 

The Felician Sisters and Madonna University are pivotal to Livonia’s foundation. Sr. Nancy Jamroz has been a key leader in both institutions for over four decades, significantly contributing to the Livonia community. Originally from Garden City, Sr. Nancy is a 1959 graduate of Ladywood High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Madonna College, followed by a Master’s in Educational Administration from Marygrove College, and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Detroit Mercy.  

After twenty years of teaching in elementary and high schools across Michigan, she was named Dean of Students at Madonna College in 1983. Six years later, in 1989, she advanced to the position of Vice President for Student Services. Over her two-decade tenure as vice president, she oversaw athletics and a range of student-focused departments, including student and residential life, campus ministry, and the Center for Personalized Instruction. 

Her involvement extends far beyond that of the Livonia community and Madonna as three years ago, Imam Arif Huskic, the founder and President of the Common Word Alliance Clergy Interfaith Organization, honored Sr. Nancy Marie Jamroz with numerous awards for her dedication to advancing interfaith understanding and dialogue. 

Paul Shepich –Clarenceville Public Schools 

Paul Shepich’s career in the Clarenceville School District began as the principal of Clarenceville High School, where he served for ten years before his appointment as superintendent in 2014. Prior to his tenure at Clarenceville, he held various leadership roles, including principal and school director in Mason County, amassing over four decades of educational experience.

In Livonia, Shepich is celebrated for fostering an inclusive environment that emphasizes “whole-child development” and for spearheading the creation of new athletic facilities.

Upon his retirement as Superintendent, Shepich’s legacy remains distinguished by his purposeful, passionate, collaborative, and empathetic leadership.

Shepich has dedicated his career to nurturing educational communities that live by the “All Means All” principle, ensuring that every member of the Clarenceville School District benefits from a quality education in a supportive environment.

His transformative leadership is marked by a steadfast dedication to service, always prioritizing the welfare of the school community and the betterment of others.

Rotary AM Club 

Building a lasting community often hinges on the success of service clubs. The Livonia AM Rotary exemplifies Livonia’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life. 

The Livonia AM Rotary Club consists of committed individuals who unite to positively impact their community and beyond.The club’s membership boasts a diverse array of professionals, business owners, community leaders, academics, students, and retirees from across southern Michigan. 

They gather to socialize, deliberate on community needs, and initiate actions to meet those needs. Their endeavors may encompass local service projects, fundraising efforts, and backing global initiatives. 

Events range from the Touch a Truck, co-founded with the Rotary Interact Club at Churchill High School, offering hands-on experiences to over 7,000 locals each August, to the Annual Spaghetti Dinner, in collaboration with the Rotary Noon Club, which raises funds to combat polio. 

The latest initiative involves a partnership with Livonia Kids & Family to construct a walk-in cooler at Clarenceville High School, ensuring students and families have ongoing access to fresh food. 

Jim and Annette McConnell–Livonia Historical Society 

 Jim and Annette McConnell’s legacy extends beyond their hometown of Livonia, encompassing community engagement throughout Southeast Michigan and the entire state. 

Jim, a Detroit native, graduated from Wyandotte Roosevelt High School, followed by Albion College (B.A.) and Wayne State University (M.A. and Ed.D.). Annette, also born in Detroit and a fellow graduate of Wyandotte Roosevelt High School, attended Michigan State University for two years before obtaining a B.S. and M.A. from Southern Connecticut State University. 

Jim dedicated most of his career to the Dearborn Public Schools and was seconded to the State of Michigan to assist in coordinating several historical commemorations: the Declaration of Independence Bicentennial in 1976, the Michigan Statehood Sesquicentennial from 1986 to 1987, and the United States Constitution and Bill of Rights Bicentennial from 1987 to 1991. He also contributed as a curriculum writer on the Middle East and North Africa at the University of Michigan. 

Together, Jim and Annette co-authored various historical books, newsletters, and publications. They penned “Our Journey: The History of Nardin Park United Methodist Church” and edited “The History of the Michigan Council for the Social Studies.” They were instrumental in founding the Michigan Council for History Education, served on its board, and edited monthly E-Notes for social studies educators across the state. Their volunteer work extended to the Detroit Historical Society, the Historical Society of Michigan, Friends of the Livonia Library, among others.  

With Jim as Secretary for Michigan’s War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission, Annette organized numerous public symposiums, historical commemorations, and tours of 1812 historical sites.  

In 2012, they were honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Historical Society of Michigan, becoming the only couple to receive this accolade. They took on leadership roles within the Livonia Historical Society; Jim as President and Annette as Recording Secretary.  

KATHLEEN J. MCCANN–16th District Court Judge 

District judges in Michigan play a crucial role in upholding justice, resolving conflicts, and safeguarding rights. They are the closest Judicial position to the residents of the town they represent. Their influence goes beyond singular cases, enhancing the legal system’s overall efficacy. 

After obtaining her English degree from Hillsdale College, Kathleen McCann dedicated a year to teaching Advanced Placement English at Livonia Public Schools. She then pursued her law degree in evening classes, graduating from Detroit College of Law in 1978. 

As an assistant prosecutor in Wayne County for a few years, she established a domestic relations law firm in Oakland County in 1983.In 1995, upon her father’s retirement, Judge James McCann, she was elected to the 16th District Court, where she has served for 28 years. She was the president of the Michigan District Judges Association from 2010-2011 and secured a position on the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission. 

The creation of a sobriety court marks a significant milestone in her career. This two-year initiative mandates that participants check in with probation officers bi-weekly, submit to daily substance tests, and obtain crucial mental health and addiction treatments. 

McCann is set to retire from her judgeship at the end of 2024. She finds fulfillment in her current position, remarking, “Right now, I’m in the best place I can be,” and identifies as “a people’s judge.” 

David Parr–Past Chairman, St. Mary’s Hospital 

Active community residents have for generations been providing leadership and laying the foundational elements of a hometown during its initial growth phase. 

Dave Parr has been just such an influential figure in Livonia for over fifty years working often behind the scenes and helping with the definition of Livonia’s quality of life.His notable contributions include leadership roles in the Churchill High School Booster Club, the Livonia Beautification Commission, and the 1990 Vote Yes Livonia recycling initiative.  

Additionally, he has presided over the LPS Community Education Advisory Council and been a member of the Livonia Planning Commission. 

His commitment to community service also encompassed a four-year tenure as Chair of the Board of Trustees at St. Mary’s Hospital, followed by two years of service as the hospital integrated into a regional network. 

As a founder and volunteer, he ascended to the position of Chairman of the Board for Paint the Town, overseeing the annual painting of 400 homes for sixteen years, which included 200 homes in Detroit and 200 in surrounding areas. 

His association with St. Mary’s Hospital further led him to the Mercy Education Project, where he took on the roles of President and Chairperson, championing educational opportunities for women and girls. 

For the last three years, Parr has also been serving on the Livonia Library Commission. 

Class of 2023

• Patrick O’Neill: Livonia is at the forefront in concert with Hegira Health of providing Critical Incident Stress Management for First Responders in partnership with community police and fire departments. Patrick O’Neill has served on the Board of Directors since Hegira’s founding in 1971, currently serving as Chairman. After 52 years, he continues to provide leadership in the behavioral health field.
• Bill Craig: Lasting environmental protection is earned through a synergy of local activism and institutional leadership. Bill Craig shows outstanding leadership, enduring commitment and extraordinary public service in protecting natural resources. He has earned a reputation as a committed and skilled advocate for the environment. 
• Jean G. Newell: Livonia is the cultural heartbeat of southeast Michigan, the foundation of which was established in 1962 when Jean Newell founded the Livonia Civic Ballet Company. A performing artist since the age of ten, Jean Newell has danced on Broadway and with national touring companies. Her students are now dancing professionally across the nation. 
• Livonia Spree Anniversary Committee: Ed McNamara wanted a volunteer group to organize a family affair where volunteer energy would be what made it successful. Spree has been the successful family-organized event hoped for in 1970. Spree has unified the City, brought neighbors together, and created a sense of community that we can all celebrate. 
• James McCann: As a City Councilman, Jim McCann showed that he is anchored in the community, striving to better Livonia, making it a hometown in which he raised his family and encouraged others to do the same. He set the standard for others coming after him to focus on the larger goal of moving Livonia forward. 

Class of 2022

• Steve Spreitzer a graduate of Bentley High School, who announced that his high school homecoming date was Terry Marecki, working for diversity and inclusion in our institutions and communities. Giving back for equality.
• Doug Kurtis a graduate of Stevenson High School sharing how much value he placed in reading at Nobel Library growing up and now encouraging those he trains to give back to their community, helping others while giving back.
• Dan Spurling who showcased just how humble he is in working behind the scenes making sure that programs established in Livonia continue to thrive and provide for a stronger hometown. Giving back through volunteerism.
• Pat Hutchison a retired Livonia teacher starting up a community theatre to share her love for art and family with the entire community adding a part of the foundation that creates a Livonia that is the cornerstone of culture in southeast Michigan.
• Trinity House, represented by Bill Keith, once the home to the Michigan Abolition movement in the 1800’s, now sharing art and cultural bringing in musicians from across the country. Giving back the love of culture.
• Gary Deschenes 30 years a resident of Livonia who says we need to keep asking others to volunteer, to work together, to make things happen instead of just talking about solutions. Giving back for the good of his hometown.

Class of 2021

• Reverend Kellie Whitlock: As pastor of Rosedale Gardens Presbyterian Church, Rev. Whitlock takes her ministry into the community on a daily basis, believing that when a city and its faith communities work together, they are better equipped to address the problems and concerns of their hometown. She works to vitalize and strengthen the life of her congregation with the understanding that there are many paths to a more just world, and community organizing is one of them.
• Tim Shaw: Tim is a nationally recognized sports figure who achieved success but never forgot his hometown or the schools where he developed the skillsets to reach the top. His generous donation to the Clarenceville school district has made possible major improvements to the athletic field, saving the district over a million dollars. Now Tim is standing tall in his courage to fight ALS, which has diminished his physical strength but not his ability to share his story, thus giving hope to thousands of other ALS patients around the country.
• Ron Reinke: Ron is a leader who recognized that in order for Livonia to successfully serve its residents of all ages, it needed a parks system that would be the envy of communities across the State. He helped develop a parks system that enhances the quality of life in Livonia, providing recreational opportunities for teams and families alike. Livonia has benefited significantly because of his leadership.
• The Late Alexander Wells: Tonight we induct an early settler of Livonia who enlisted in the Civil War as the only African-American from Livonia, as part of an all-Black Brigade. Unfortunately, Alexander Wells died before he could be reunited with his family on the homestead they farmed at Seven Mile and Newburgh.
• John and Lina Del Signore: John and Lina Del Signore opened Laurel Manor Banquet & Conference Center in 1989, with the simple philosophy of giving back to the community in as many ways as possible—from introducing leaders around the State to bringing thousands each year to Livonia as the Livonia go-to conference center. Their business hospitality team made popular the phrase heard around the State: “If we are going to have a conference, let’s meet in Livonia.” For decades, they have brought personality and professionalism to the brick-and-mortar concept of hospitality.