Playworks Michigan benefits enormously from the time and expertise of our local Board members. These champions generously offer advice and guidance to staff, identify resources to support the program, and help guide ongoing growth in the region.
Lester A. Booker, Jr., Board Chair
Lester A. Booker, Jr. is the first former vice president and head of DE&I Communications at Citizens Financial Group. In this role, he was responsible for crafting and implementing comprehensive communication strategies to support the bank’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, advising senior executives, and driving key organizational goals.
A proud Central Michigan University (CMU) alumnus, Booker stays actively involved with his alma mater as a board member of the Alumni Association and as part of the Chippewa Athletics Hall of Fame Selection Committee. He is also engaged with the Detroit Advisory Task Force and the Black Alumni Chapter. Beyond his university ties, he serves on several boards, including the National Newspaper Publishers Association Fund, MACC Development Corporation, and Playworks Michigan, as well as the Legal Services Corporation’s Emerging Leaders Council.
His contributions to the field of DE&I have earned him notable recognitions, including being named one of Crain’s Detroit Business’s Notable Leaders in DE&I for 2023, a Michigan Chronicle Men of Excellence in 2022, a News/Talk 760 WJR and Detroit Economic Club’s Rising Star in 2021, and a Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 honoree in 2018.
Why is play important:
“I believe that children are the future, and I’m honored to play a role in expanding access and opportunity for the next generation. We are blessed to be a blessing, and serving on this board allows me the unique opportunity to help influence and propel forward the organization’s mission and impact on children and families across the State of Michigan.”
Vickie Sullen-Winn, Board Co-Chair
Vickie Sullen-Winn is a communications executive, currently leading the City of Farmington Hills Department of Communications and Community Engagement. She is a graduate of Howard University in Washington, D.C. with a bachelor’s degree in communications.
Throughout her career Vickie’s work has included advocacy work on behalf of children. At Children’s Hospital of Michigan, she worked as marketing communications manager to elevate the role of pediatric experts offering specialized care and spearhead activities to put smiles on the faces of in-patients organizing visits from celebrities and professional athletes. At United Way for Southeastern Michigan as director of communications, her communications efforts supported record setting community giving which supported metro-Detroit children and their families with access to the support they needed to thrive. As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc., she is involved with work year-round supporting a variety of causes on behalf of children and their families.
Why is play important:
“I appreciate the work of Playworks in centering the important role of ‘play’ in a child’s life while supporting their learning and physical health. In today’s face-paced environment where technology can often rob a child of their imagination and the explorer spirit, Playworks serves as a lifeline to many parents in providing a space where kids have opportunity to just be kids.”
Cassie Clark
Cassie D. Clark is a dynamic leader in business, athletics, and community development. A proud Davenport University alumnus, she helped pioneer the Women’s Rugby program in 2013 and contributed to five National Championship teams as both a player and staff. Her passion for advancing women’s sports led her to co-found the Grand Rapids Women’s Growlers Rugby Team in 2015, where she served over six years as Director of Marketing & Digital Media on the Executive Board. Cassie has built a distinguished career at JAN-PRO Detroit, where she has advanced from Office Manager in 2021 to her current role as Director of Sales & Marketing and Leadership Team member. In this role, she oversees strategic marketing initiatives, identifies target markets, and develops customer growth strategies that have significantly influenced the company’s trajectory. Her leadership has helped expand the brand, strengthen customer relationships, and create new opportunities for Certified Business Owners across Southeast Michigan.
Beyond athletics and career success, Cassie is deeply engaged in her community. She serves on the Farmington Hills Economic Development Corporation Board, is an Advisory Board Member for the Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce and as an Ambassador for new members, strengthening local business partnerships and promoting growth. Known for her integrity, grit, and commitment to excellence, Cassie embodies the spirit of leadership, service, and innovation both in her career and her community.
Why play is important:
“I owe all the great things in my life to athletics and ‘playing.’ Beyond having fun, I’ve been able to travel the country, find my life-partner, meet some of my best friends and get an incredible education through rugby. Team sports have been critical to my development and it’s so important for kids to get these opportunities for expression.”
Ryan Combs
Ryan Combs is the Medicare & Individual Sales Manager at Health Alliance Plan (HAP) where he plays a pivotal role in connecting with partner agents to enhance sales and marketing efforts. His dedication to serving the senior population and addressing social determinants of health is a driving force in his career. Ryan’s commitment extends beyond his professional role; he values the impact of PLAY in fostering future success and community engagement. This passion for PLAY and its importance in the development of the next generation led him to Playworks, where he was introduced at a Get in the Game event.
Why is play important:
“Play was and is a huge contributor to my development. When I was introduced to Playworks, the mission and vision resonated with me and inspired me to get involved in making sure all children have the same access to safe, fun, healthy play every day.”
Dee Dee Crockett
Dee Dee Crockett has had a diverse and extensive career spanning various industries and roles. She began with a decade at Ford Motor Company, gaining experience in customer service and worldwide export divisions. Transitioning to the pharmaceutical industry, she currently engages with medical professionals in offices and hospitals as a Senior Executive Institutional Account Specialist at AstraZeneca.
In addition to her corporate roles, Dee Dee has been deeply involved in non-profit organizations, contributing significantly to several Neighborhood Block Clubs, including Trinity Block Club and Northwestern Evergreen Lahser Community Organization. She has also supported Serendipity Collage and Potpourri, focused on providing school backpacks, and the North Farmington Football Booster Club. Her roles in these organizations included serving as a financial officer, showcasing her commitment to organizational management and fiscal responsibility.
How has play impacted my life:
“My personal history reflects a lifelong dedication to sports, from active participation throughout my upbringing to funding my college education through collegiate athletics. Currently, I stay active by competing in competitive 3 on 3 women’s basketball and have a deep commitment to community service, education, and the well-being of children through sports and play.”
Ben Fidelman
Ben Fidelman is a rising star in the sports and entertainment sector, serving as the Director of Communications and Broadcasting for Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. In this role, he manages the external communications and public relations strategies for two of Detroit’s iconic brands: the Detroit Tigers and the Red Wings.
Ben’s journey began during his time at the University of Michigan, where he earned a B.A. in Sport Management in 2017. His early career was marked by valuable internships at MLB’s Office of the Commissioner and MLB Advanced Media, setting the stage for his impactful work in the industry.
His professional motivation centers on fostering community spirit through shared experiences and celebrations, symbolized by the Olde English D and the Winged Wheel.
Why play is important:
“Whether it’s in Major League stadiums or local schoolyards, play is the most unifying thing we can do. Spreading the physical and emotional benefits of structured play to all kids is well worth our time and effort – and something I’m excited to help guide!”
Reed Harris II
Reed Harris II is the North America DEI Lead for Kenvue, the Consumer Health spin-off of Johnson & Johnson. As a dynamic business leader with a strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), Reed has demonstrated exceptional allyship and success in advancing DEI initiatives both at Kenvue and within his local communities.
Reed co-led Care with Pride, an award-winning initiative that champions LGBTQ+ equality and inclusivity across 12 brands. Under his leadership, this initiative expanded to include 15 major retailers such as Target, Amazon, and Kroger, and raised over $1.5 million for LGBTQIA+ nonprofits like Family Equality. Additionally, Reed is a 12-year ambassador for Movember, where he has driven efforts to raise awareness about racial health disparities and funding for men’s mental health, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. His notable achievements include summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2022, raising over $200,000 for men’s health in the process.
Reed has also contributed to various boards, including the Los Angeles Better Educated Students for Tomorrow, the United Way of Greater Los Angeles, the Los Angeles World Affairs Council, the University of Michigan Alumni Association of Los Angeles, and the Finnish Council of America. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Operations Engineering from the University of Michigan.
Why play is important:
“As a result of my prior experience working with at-risk youth in the Los Angeles Unified School District, I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing the power of play first-hand. I’ve seen how it helps in building curiosity, skills, and confidence as well as promoting inclusion between children of all abilities and backgrounds. I’m excited to join the Michigan Playworks Advisory Board and contribute to its development, expansion and impact in my home state and city.”
Dr. Rebecca Hasson
Dr. Rebecca Hasson is the Victor L. Katch Collegiate Professor of Kinesiology and Associate Professor of Movement Science at the University of Michigan. As Director of the University of Michigan Childhood Disparities Research Laboratory, Rebecca uses her expertise in exercise physiology, implementation science, and health equity research to improve the health and well-being of children and their families across the state. She has formed statewide partnerships to change classroom physical activity practices and policies and empower families to engage in health behaviors through the common thread of physical activity. Rebecca has made it her mission to get children, teachers, families, and communities across the state of Michigan moving again.
Why play is important:
“Play has always been a powerful connector in my life—it builds community, sparks joy, and gives every child a chance to belong. As a researcher and advocate for children’s health, I’ve seen firsthand how active play transforms classrooms, families, and entire communities. Joining the Playworks Advisory Board is an opportunity to help expand that impact and ensure all children have the chance to thrive through play.”
Alexandria (Alex) Haynes
Alexandria (Alex) Haynes is a native Detroiter and currently serves as the Director of Corporate Engagement & Cultivation at United Way for Southeastern Michigan. She works to fuel strategic volunteer engagement with the region’s leading corporate partners and donors. Alex has the pleasure of connecting United Ways corporate partners social responsibility with the organization’s community impact initiatives. Turning altruistic intentions into impactful solutions to true community needs.
Alex is a graduate of the University of Michigan-Dearborn College of Arts, Science and Letters with a degree in Political Science and Sociology, with a focus in social work. She served as an AmeriCorps member with United Way which led to being hired and she’s since been with the organization for over 13 years.
Why is play important:
“Play has always been an important part of my life! It also fueled a lot of my social and leadership development throughout all stages of my life, from Rosedale Park youth soccer league to adult co-ed soccer with a community focus.”
Jeff Kalinowski
Jeff Kalinowski is an innovative and influential leader with more than 20 years of experience driving strategic communications, employee engagement, and large-scale organizational change across global manufacturing environments. As Global Head of Stellantis Industrial System (SIS) Communications, Jeff leads the development and execution of communication strategies impacting more than 180,000 employees across nearly 100 plants worldwide, fostering alignment, engagement, and a strong culture rooted in continuous improvement.
Throughout his career, Jeff has combined business expertise with a deep commitment to community impact. He has played a key leadership role in philanthropic initiatives, including coordinating major employee giving campaigns that increased participation by over 35% and helped generate more than $60 million in charitable contributions. His work with United Way and other nonprofit organizations reflects a passion for mobilizing people, building partnerships, and delivering measurable results for communities.
Outside of his professional work, Jeff and his wife, Crystal, share a passion for music and travel. Together, they are the co-founders of the One-Eyed Dog Pub, a unique backyard venue named after their rescue dog, Willie, where they host charity concerts that bring people together in support of meaningful causes. Jeff also extends his love of music into broadcasting as the host of “The One- Eyed Dog Radio Show,” which airs in both the United States and England. Jeff’s leadership style emphasizes empathy, storytelling, and collaboration – qualities that help organizations connect purpose with action and inspire meaningful, lasting impact both in the workplace and in the community.
Why is play important:
“Play is important because it brings out the best in people, especially in children, by creating an environment where they can learn, connect, and grow in a natural and joyful way. From my perspective, play isn’t just recreation; it’s a powerful foundation for building confidence, teamwork, and resilience. It teaches kids how to navigate challenges, communicate effectively, and develop empathy, all while having fun.”
Jasmin Lopez
Jasmin Lopez is currently an MBA candidate at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, focusing on Marketing and Strategy. She holds a B.A. from Dickinson College where she double majored in International Business & Management and Italian Studies. Before pursuing her MBA full time, she spent five years at Ethicon, a Johnson & Johnson subsidiary, where she developed strong skills in sales, talent acquisition, and account management. In addition to her professional background, Jasmin has been involved in nonprofit work, advocating for equitable access to resources for underserved communities, particularly children and marginalized individuals. Her connection to Playworks is deeply personal as she is a first-generation student and understands the importance of a healthy and safe school environment. She is passionate about making a positive impact in both her professional and personal endeavors.
“Play has always been incredibly important to me. It was through play that I was able to foster my creativity and form friendships outside the pressures of the classroom, where I often felt the need to focus solely on excelling. Play gave me the freedom to explore new activities, like games and sports, and to meet new people. It also played a vital role in my emotional development, teaching me empathy and the value of teamwork. I believe every child deserves the opportunity to explore the world through play.”
Kelly Markosky
Kelly Markosky is a seasoned CPA working in PwC’s Trust Solutions Assurance practice, a role she has excelled in since 2005. She holds both an MS in Accounting and a BS in Finance from Michigan State University. Beyond her professional duties, Kelly actively contributes to the Playworks Advisory Board, applying her extensive leadership and project management experience. Additionally, she serves on the External Advisory Board for the Department of Accounting and Information Systems at Michigan State University’s Broad College of Business.
Why is play important:
“From early years instructing children in swim classes in the community pool and dance classes in the local dance studio, I always appreciated the importance of socialization outside of the school classroom. As a mother of a five-year-old during Covid, the importance of daily outdoor play with other kids became even clearer.”
Angela T. Moore
With years of experience in the mental and physical health industry, Integrative Health Expert Angela T. Moore has helped countless individuals strengthen their minds and bodies through an integrative health approach, using proven therapeutic interventions, effective exercise methods, and healthy lifestyle strategies. She holds a master’s in counseling from Oakland University and a master’s in business management from Walsh College, as well as a bachelor’s in sociology from University of Virginia. She is a NASM Master Trainer with specializations in Corrective Exercise, Performance Enhancement, Fitness Nutrition, and Group Personal Training. She is also a wellness blog contributor to A Healthier Michigan. Angela is the founder and CEO of The Body Principle which provides Integrative health presentations, workshops, mental health counseling and integrative health coaching to organizations and school systems. Angela is also the founder and CEO of Empowered By Angela, which strives to provide education, information, and resources to empower individuals to achieve mental and physical health and overall wellbeing.
How play has impacted my life:
“Play has impacted my life so significantly that I try to empower others to implement play and physical activity into their daily lives. Play promotes the social, emotional, and physical wellbeing of children. The same benefits can be experienced by anyone at any age. I believe that we should all create time and space to play each and every day and I am committed to creating play experiences for everyone.”
Karenia Randle
Karenia is the Chief Strategist for MiGrassroots Strategies a boutique governmental consulting firm. Prior to the firm Karenia was a Government Policy Advisor at Dykema, where she worked with clients to navigate the state government and tackle their various policy agendas. Prior to Dykema, Karenia worked as a Legislative Liaison for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, where she advocated for priorities for Michigan’s economic prosperity. Karenia also worked in both the Michigan House of Representatives and Michigan Senate in various legislative staffer roles. Karenia brings a broad range of experience of experience in appropriations, nonprofits, economic development, health and human services, early childhood education, and community development. In addition, Karenia is an advocate for working cross functionally with state agencies, stakeholders, and various partners to ensure they all work in tandem to solve issues along with advocating for the best possible outcomes for the state’s future. She enjoys walking the Lansing river trail, biking, cooking, spending time with family and friends along with home improvement projects.
Mike Schulte
Mike Schulte’s career spans nearly 35 years in education, encompassing roles such as teacher, coach, mentor, school administrator, and athletic director across all K-12 levels. With both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Michigan, Mike has built a rich and varied career in schools.
In his recent transition to retirement, or as he puts it, being “rewired,” Mike has shifted his focus to coaching and mentoring with organizations like Opportunity Thrive, Ribbit Learning, MEMSPA, and Teachers of Tomorrow, among others. His new role allows him to guide and support the development of emerging educators.
Mike’s extensive involvement in sports, both as a player and a coach, has instilled in him a deep appreciation for the life lessons that come from being active. He values the skills and insights gained through sports and brings that perspective to his work with new educators.
Why play is important:
“As an educator, I recognize how learning and physical activity work together. I am passionate about making learning fun, and one of the best ways I know to do that is to bring movement and play into schools. I have seen the impact of respectful and inclusive play at schools, and truly believe that play works!”