MML Convention Program

Distinguished Service Award The Distinguished Service Award celebrates an individual who exhibits meritorious service to the League and its member communities. Recipient: Gary Heidel Gary has played a significant role in passing and

implementing policies at the state and federal levels in the areas of housing, neighborhoods, placemaking, economic/ community development, and more. Before beginning consulting, Gary’s previous experience includes roles at the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), the Michigan Department of Commerce, and the offices

of Michigan State Senator John Kelly and U.S. Senator Donald Riegle. He co coordinated the Sense of Place Council with the Michigan Municipal League’s Executive Director and CEO Dan Gilmartin and has also collaborated with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and multiple state agencies. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan and executive leadership programs from Michigan State University, Duke University, and Harvard University.

What does the Distinguished Service Award mean to you? “I have always believed that collaboration is key to meaningful and lasting change. If we all work together, and if we listen to one another, we can solve even the most difficult problems. The collaboration between MSHDA, MML, MEDC, and MSU in defining, creating, and establishing placemaking was one of those great collaborations. This award for me celebrates the success we achieved together.”

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