One thing is for sure: Eating an ice cream cone at Cook’s Farm Dairy in Ortonville is guaranteed to put a smile on your face!
She’s a southern belle with Midwestern grit and global vision. Born in Helena, AR and raised in Flint, Dr. Shan Jackson has never been one to stay inside the box – or even inside the borders. With a bold blend of academic achievement, professional experience and personal passion, she has launched a powerful health and wellness movement that has crossed oceans and changed lives. Her impact both locally and internationally has earned her the honor of being named the 2025 City’s Choice Award winner for Favorite Greater Flint Educator – a recognition that only begins to capture the depth of her work.
Shaunda Richardson-Snell is a Genesee County native and seasoned leader with over two decades of experience in finance, business and nonprofit work. Her career has taken her across industries – from healthcare and higher education to the automotive world – where she’s held senior roles in finance and leadership.
When a young woman at the age of 17 demonstrates intelligence, a willingness to work hard, is outspoken, passionate and constantly advocating for herself and others, it’s easy to see that great things are ahead – not only for herself, but also for those she serves now and in the future.
Years in the making, the new YMCA in Downtown Flint has finally opened its doors!
If one word could accurately describe a caring, nurturing woman who has dedicated much of her life to the welfare of children, that word might be “Mom.” Although she really is a dedicated mother, Amy Anderson is also the chief operating officer (COO) at Whaley Children’s Center in Flint.
Last November, Mary Alyce Hood was elected to a six-year term on the bench in the 7th Circuit Court in Genesee County. The seat was vacated by Judge Celeste Bell due to Michigan’s constitutionally imposed age limits for judicial officeholders.
Last month, students in the Mott Community College (MCC) Institute of Culinary Arts program were treated to a unique culinary and learning experience. Chef Andre Rush, a celebrity chef who worked at the White House under four Presidential administrations and is a military veteran, was the featured chef in the school’s Distinguished Chef Series. On April 2-3, the school hosted a two-day event that included a “Future Chef’s Lunch,” a lecture presentation and book-signing, and a “Hands That Feed the Future Gala.”
The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses recognizes exceptional nurses who provide skillful and compassionate care – those who go above and beyond for their patients and families. Hurley Nurse Heather Minor, RN BSA embodies everything this award symbolizes. Her nomination reads:
Claudnyse Holloman is reminded daily how vital a role her organization plays in uplifting young victims of unspeakable crimes.
For 25 years, Jeff Wright has served as the Genesee County Drain Commissioner, overseeing critical water infrastructure that affects every resident – from ensuring clean drinking water to maintaining wastewater treatment systems that protect public health. A lifelong Genesee County resident from the Atherton/Bentley area, Jeff’s dedication to his community runs deep. His career in public service spans nearly five decades, including 23 years working under Commissioner Anthony Ragnone before stepping into his current leadership role.
Born in Helena, AR and raised in Flint, Dr. Shan Jackson is a proud southern belle turned Flint trailblazer with a vast scope of speaking and teaching experiences across the globe. After earning dual master’s degrees in Social Sciences and Criminal Justice from Michigan State University, she was inspired to pursue and complete her PhD in 2023. Her groundbreaking research examined the impact of nutrition on criminal behavior, particularly among youth and adults in the Criminal Justice System. She is the CEO of Healthy Just Feels Right, recently opening an office in Downtown Flint.
