MML CapCon 2023 Program

Luke Forrest Executive Director, Community Economic Development Association of Michigan

Luke has dedicated most of his professional career to assisting and advocating on behalf of Michigan’s communities. Before joining CEDAM, he led a team of staff and consultants that created innovative education and technical assistance programs at the Michigan Municipal League. This team worked in communities large and small, rural and urban, on topics such as placemaking, redevelopment, and environmental sustainability. Previously, Luke worked as a legislative staffer and lobbyist in

Washington, DC and as the public policy director for Metro Matters, an organization focused on regional collaboration in metro Detroit. He holds degrees in urban planning and real estate development from the University of Michigan.

David Hodgkins Legislative Associate, State & Federal Affairs, Michigan Municipal League

Dave Hodgkins is a legislative associate for the Michigan Municipal League where he advocates on behalf of communities in the areas of municipal services, elections, labor, and parks and recreation. Before joining the League, he worked for the government relations firm Midwest Strategy Group. He worked closely with several municipalities on their specific needs and local government groups, including the League, on the broader impact state government has on Michigan’s

communities. Throughout his career in government relations, Dave has led advocacy operations on an extensive portfolio of policy issues ranging from food access to economic development opportunities—elevating communities by expanding access to resources. He also has extensive experience in issue-campaign oversight and coalition building. Dave began his career serving in the Michigan House of Representatives having worked for two state representatives including former Speaker Pro Tem. John Walsh. He earned a B.S. in English from Central Michigan University and has been awarded Outstanding Performance in team building and persuasive communication from the Dale Carnegie Immersion Seminar.

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