BLI Alumni Panel and Networking Session

This panel and networking session will center around the theme of fostering wellness and resilience during a time of transition. We are looking forward to welcoming nine BLI alumni who span a variety of careers and sectors to engage and reflect on their post-grad experiences. Some conversation topics include navigating identity, pivoting pathways, and adapting to changes post-grad.

The event will begin at 4 PM with a reception, followed by the alumni panel and Q&A at 4:30 PM. Following the panel, we will hold the networking session from 5:30-6 PM.

Ethan Hopper is a 2019 graduate of the Ford School of Public Policy and a former Senior Fellow/Program Assistant with the BLI. He is a Senior Consultant at Deloitte and has served clients at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for over 5 years, working on policy, regulatory compliance, and analysis. Previously, Ethan worked in the US Senate, the US Department of State, and at SpaceX. He lives in Washington, D.C.

Micalah Webster earned her undergraduate degrees at the University of Michigan, double majoring in Psychology and Organizational Studies, with a minor in Community Action and Social Change, in 2016. She became a Barger Leadership Fellow in 2014. Driven by a passion for social justice and health equity, Micalah pursued a joint Master of Health Service Administration and Master of Social Work at the University of Michigan, graduating in 2019. Her studies focused on how social identity, power, and systematic oppression impact access to quality healthcare and overall well-being, as well as strategies to drive sustainable change through policy, programs, and leadership. Currently, as Director of Community Health Equity & Social Impact at Henry Ford Health, Micalah leads strategic planning, manages community health grants, and works with social service, hospitals, physician practices, and grassroots partners to create equitable systems of care.

Carlena Toombs is a passionate community leader and communications professional with a deep commitment to empowering Detroit. A graduate of the University of Michigan with a degree in Communications and Media, Carlena further developed her leadership skills through her participation in the Barger Leadership Institute (BLI) in 2017. As the Marketing Communications Manager at the Detroit Land Bank Authority, Carlena plays a key role in advancing neighborhood revitalization efforts and supporting homebuyers through strategic communication initiatives. She is also the co-founder of Hood Deeds, an organization focused on providing educational opportunities, connection, and mentorship to Detroit’s youth. Before assuming her current role, Carlena contributed to Detroit City Council - District 4’s community engagement and digital media efforts, building community through outreach and storytelling. For Carlena, Detroit is more than just a city—it is the core of both her professional and personal journey. Her work in local government and grassroots initiatives gives her a unique perspective on the city's needs, which she addresses with creative storytelling and a vision for lasting change.

Amy Saslekova is a Program Manager at Alma, a health tech company dedicated to making high-quality, affordable mental health care more accessible. She currently leads project management initiatives for the CX department, driving process improvements, streamlining workflows, and implementing strategic solutions to enhance customer experience operations. Prior to this, Amy spent over two years as a Success Manager at Alma, focusing on retention and engagement across the company's member base. She also has experience in consulting at Slalom, where she worked on business advisory initiatives within the life sciences industry. Before transitioning into consulting, Amy held roles in customer success and business development at CB Insights, helping companies leverage data-driven insights to navigate industry trends and competitive landscapes. Amy graduated from the University of Michigan in 2019 with a major in International Studies (Political Economy and Development) and a minor in Asian Languages and Cultures (Chinese Language and Culture). She was closely involved with the Barger Leadership Institute as a Peer Facilitator for U-M ALA 170, a participant in the 2017 BLI Denver Leadership Trip, and a BLI Fellow. Beyond BLI, she also served as a Coordinator for the U-M New Student Mentorship Program, an Ambassador for the U-M Opportunity Hub, and an undergraduate researcher. Additionally, she was active in several organizations across campus, including Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law Fraternity, Sigma Iota Rho International Honors Society, and more. She also spent two summers teaching public speaking and English in Japan in 2018 and 2019. Since graduating, Amy has called New York, Chicago, and, most recently, Seattle home with her fiancé. During their time in Washington for her partner's ophthalmology residency, they have enjoyed exploring Seattle's coffee scene, beautiful nature, and vibrant food culture together.

Shekinah Singletery is the Director of Community Health & Well-Being for Trinity Health Ann Arbor and Livingston hospitals. She partners with hospital leaders, community-based organizations and other health care stakeholders to address social needs and social influencers of health for those experiencing poverty and other vulnerabilities. Shekinah has worked at the national, regional and local levels within Trinity Health. She has experience leading initiatives related to process improvement, community coalition building, community health needs assessment, workforce development, Safety Net Health Centers, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. Shekinah Singletery received both her undergraduate (2014) and graduate (2016) degrees from the University of Michigan. She obtained an undergraduate degree in Organizational Studies with a pathway in Health Management and Organizational Culture. During her undergraduate degree, she participated in the Barger Leadership Institute. She later pursued a Masters of Health Service Administration in the Health Management and Policy department. Shekinah is a Board Member of the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Regional Chamber, Washtenaw County Board of Health and Washtenaw County Continuum of Care. She is the founder and co-lead of the Trinity Health WorkParent Colleague Resource Group. Personally, Shekinah has been married for over 9 years and is a mom to two beautiful young girls.