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News & Events Digest: September 2024





State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks
State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks Named Senior Vice President of the National Association of State Treasurers

Following non-partisan confirmation from her peers at the National Association of State Treasurers’ (NAST) Annual Conference on Monday, Sept. 23, State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks [ [link removed] ] has been elected to serve as the organization’s senior vice president for 2025.

“The National Association of State Treasurers provides important resources for state treasuries across the country,” State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks said. “This includes advocacy, effecting sound financial practices and implementing national programs that benefit all residents. It is truly an honor to be selected to serve in a leadership capacity at a national organization that promotes the development of public finance.”

NAST is an organization dedicated to helping the nation’s financial leaders pursue and administer sound financial policies and programs benefiting our nation. Membership is composed of all state treasurers or state finance officials with comparable responsibilities throughout the United States.

As senior vice president, State Treasurer Eubanks will serve on the NAST’s Board of Directors, chair the Program and Learning Committee, and act as treasurer liaison for the Corporate Affiliate Board. In various roles at the organization, she led efforts to advocate for state interests related to the Federal Data Transparency Act, protection of tax-exempt finance and ensured individuals of all ages and incomes have the tools and education needed to become empowered to make sound financial decisions [ [link removed] ].

To learn more about NAST, visit www.nast.org [ [link removed] ].

State Treasurer Eubanks was appointed as Michigan’s 47th state treasurer by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in January 2019. She is dedicated to building upon Michigan Department of Treasury’s culture of service to all Michiganders and is committed to upholding the long-term fiscal health and stability of our state.

State Treasurer Eubanks has a bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.



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Sarah Rusnell
Sarah Rusnell: Catching Her Breath

For 35 years, Sarah Rusnell was forced to focus on her health in order to stay alive. She was born with *Cystic Fibrosis* [ [link removed] ] (CF), a rare, progressive and terminal genetic disease that started ticking as soon as she took her first gasp of air. She’s been tenaciously fighting to survive ever since.

CF causes a buildup of thick, sticky mucus in the lungs; untreated, it makes breathing impossible. The disease also affects digestion, the pancreas and other body organs. Sarah’s grown up with CF side effects that have impacted her ability to breathe, kept her malnourished, gave her diabetes, and left her with recurring infections requiring frequent intervention and weeks of hospitalizations. She’s spent multiple hours "every single day" of her life on airway clearance, inhaled medication and oral medication in order to manage her disease.

And management is critical. Thirty years ago, children with CF were unlikely to live past their teen years. Sarah’s disciplined approach to her medical regimen helped control the disease, but the singular physical, mental and emotional requirements of surviving CF understandably shaped her serious worldview.

It also developed her resilience, perseverance and grit — traits that Sarah brought with her to the workplace and have fueled her successful career at Treasury.

Read more about Sarah Rusnell on Treasury's Medium page.  [ [link removed] ]



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State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks and Jessica Thomas

ICYMI: State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks and podcast guest Jessica Thomas discuss the state of Michigan's early warning system for school finances. [ [link removed] ]



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Your Career Starts Here! [ [link removed] ]






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Ford Field
The Michigan Education Savings Program Partners with the Detroit Lions to Provide Nursing Rooms at Ford Field

The Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP) is proud to announce its partnership with the Detroit Lions to provide nursing rooms for mothers inside Ford Field. This initiative aims to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans, ensuring that families feel comfortable and supported while attending games.

The co-branded nursing rooms, located on three different levels of Ford Field, will be equipped with comfortable seating, changing tables, and privacy screens to ensure a peaceful and welcoming environment for mothers and their babies in a safe space. In addition, the rooms will be easily accessible to attendees and Lions family members, promoting inclusivity and support for breastfeeding mothers. This partnership reflects MESP’s commitment to supporting families and promoting education and savings programs in Michigan.

“We are excited to partner with the Lions to support nursing mothers and families attending games at Ford Field,” said Diane Brewer, Program Manager of MESP. “This initiative aligns with our mission to create a more inclusive and family-friendly environment, and we are excited to support families while also promoting the importance of saving for their children’s future higher education expenses.”

The Detroit Lions are also excited about this collaboration and the opportunity to provide a comfortable space for mothers at the stadium. “As an organization, we are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans,” said Detroit Lions Senior Vice President, Facilities, Todd Argust. “We are proud to partner with MESP to offer these nursing rooms and support families in our community”.

The partnership between MESP and the Detroit Lions highlights their shared commitment to supporting families, higher education, and promoting inclusivity in sports and entertainment venues.



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First-ever MIC conference and awards
Michiganders Recognized for Asset Management Excellence at State’s First-Ever 2024 Integrated Infrastructure Conference

Individuals and agencies demonstrating excellence in infrastructure asset management were recognized at the state’s first-ever 2024 Integrated Infrastructure Conference in Grand Rapids, held Aug. 13 and 14 at the L.V. Eberhard Center at Grand Valley State University. Hosted in partnership with the Michigan Infrastructure Council [ [link removed] ], Transportation Asset Management Council (TAMC) [ [link removed] ] and the Water Asset Management Council (WAMC) [ [link removed] ], more than 220 asset management professionals, local government officials and industry leaders were in attendance.

“The awards presented at the first-ever Integrated Infrastructure Conference highlight the critical role of asset management in ensuring that our infrastructure investments deliver long-term benefits for communities across the state,” said Palencia Mobley, P.E., chairperson of the MIC. “Asset management is the key to creating a sustainable future where our communities are connected, our natural resources are protected and our economy is resilient.”

Awards given at the 2024 Integrated Infrastructure Conference include:


* MIC Asset Management Ambassador Award: John Weiss, Exec. Director, Grand Valley Metropolitan Council
* TAMC Organizational Achievement Award: MDOT, Bureau of Bridges and Structures Ancillary Structures Program
* TAMC Carmine Palombo Individual Achievement Award: Rick DeVries P.E., Asst. City Engineer, City of Grand Rapids

Read more about the award recipients on Treasury's website. [ [link removed] ]



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Fostering Futures
More than $100,000 raised at 12th annual Fostering Futures Scholarship event in Detroit

Nearly 430 foster youth are eligible to receive college scholarships following the 12th annual Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund Benefit Dinner organized by the Michigan Education Trust (MET) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). 

The Sept. 20 event at Motor City Casino in Detroit was attended by more than 200 guests, including Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II, and raised $101,590 for scholarships through MET, the Michigan Department of Treasury’s 529 prepaid education program. So far this year, MET has raised more than $151,000 for these scholarships. 

Both the fundraiser dinner and raffle benefit youth who have experienced foster care in Michigan. A partnership between MET and MDHHS makes Fostering Futures Scholarships possible. 

“Every young person exiting foster care deserves the support and resources they need to chase their dreams,” said Lt. Governor Gilchrist. “I was proud to join the 12th annual Fostering Futures Event, which has raised more than $1.4 million for students since 2012. Governor Whitmer and I will keep working hard to foster brighter futures for Michiganders and the state we all love.”

“The Michigan Department of Treasury and partners have been working for more than a decade to bring hope and resources to Michigan’s foster youth,” State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks said. “The funds we raise together demonstrate our compassion and our belief in the hopes, dreams, and achievements of Michigan’s youth who have experienced foster care. For this academic year, we have awarded 429 students more than $1 million in scholarships. All contributions make a difference in our communities.” 

Approximately 10,000 youth are in the Michigan foster care system run by MDHHS. Nationally, fewer than 10% of former foster youth enroll in college after high school and fewer than 3% earn a degree. 

Fostering Futures is a life-changing resource for so many of Michigan’s youth,” said Rachel Willis, bureau director of Out-of-Home Services for MDHHS Children’s Services Administration. “Investing in students and helping them achieve their dreams is one of the most meaningful investments we can make as individuals, as organizations and as a state. MDHHS is proud to collaborate with state agencies, colleges and universities and other partners to provide opportunities to students through this program.” 

Carolyn Clifford, anchor for television station WXYZ Channel 7, emceed the event. 

Keynote speaker, Paul Blavin, co-founder and vice chairman of Mercy BioAnalytics and social venture entrepreneur, spoke about his philanthropic focus on youth life transformation for those who need it the most and are least able to help themselves.  

“Talent is widespread in our society unfortunately, opportunity is not,” Blavin said. 

The Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund provides former foster care students who may not have adequate financial resources to attend college with a scholarship. During the 2024-25 academic year, 429 students at 56 institutions are eligible for support. 

Anyone who could not attend Friday’s event can make donations to the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund by visiting FosteringFutures-MI.com [ [link removed] ]. Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund is a Section 170(c) non-profit organization. All contributions are eligible for an income tax deduction. Since 2012, fundraising efforts have totaled more than $1.4 million, with funds awarded as scholarships in the year they were raised.



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MET CSA
Michigan Education Trust celebrates September as National College Savings Month

As National College Savings Month returns this September, and with a proclamation from *Gov. Gretchen Whitmer* declaring Michigan College Savings Month [ [link removed] ], the Michigan Education Trust (MET) is amplifying its efforts encouraging families to plan for their children’s future education.

New for 2024, the prepaid tuition program administered by the Michigan Department of Treasury is offering fresh incentives, including the *2024 College Savings Month Bonus*, making saving for college more accessible than ever. Purchasers who open new Pay-As-You-Go contracts for qualified beneficiaries by Sept. 30, 2024, will receive a $100 College Savings Month Bonus.*

The bonus represents MET’s ongoing work to reduce financial barriers to postsecondary education. Families are encouraged to visit here and use the coupon code [ [link removed] ] *CSM24* to take advantage of this offer and to waive the $25 online enrollment fee.

“This initiative is part of our unwavering commitment to breaking down the financial barriers that too often stand as obstacles for families in achieving their educational goals,” said *Diane Brewer*, executive director of MET. “We want to make sure that more students can begin and complete their education without the overwhelming burden of student debt.”

*Highlighting the value of early college savings,* MET is looking back to early investors like Karen and David Janer-Hanson of South Lyon, who were “MET originals” and are now calling their MET investment the best financial decision they ever made.

They recently reflected on how MET has paid off for their family.

Back in 1988, as young professionals with a daughter and limited funds, they knew they had to prioritize their child’s future. The newly introduced MET program allowed them to purchase future college credits at 1988 prices, and they knew they couldn’t miss out.

“It was the smartest financial move we’ve ever made,” said Karen, a former school counselor.

Thanks to MET, their daughter, Cara, graduated from Michigan Technological University with an environmental engineering degree. Now, she works as an environmental engineer for the Grand Valley Metro Council in Kent County. Their son, Philip, also benefited from MET, earning a political science degree from James Madison College at Michigan State University.

Brewer highlighted the enduring impact of MET.

“Like the Janer-Hansons, every Michigan family should have the opportunity to secure their child’s future,” she said. “We’re enhancing our offerings this year to ensure more students can achieve their dreams without the shadow of student debt.”

*Since its inception in 1988 *as the nation’s first 529 prepaid education savings plan, MET has been a cornerstone for Michigan families. With rising concerns about student debt, MET’s role has never been more crucial in providing a pathway to a debt-free future.

*The benefits of a MET plan extend beyond savings,* with contributions being tax-deductible for Michigan residents and distributions for qualified education expenses being tax-free. Additionally, MET offers the flexibility of year-round contributions, making it easy for anyone — parents, grandparents, friends and even community organizations — to invest in a child’s future.

Brewer also emphasized MET’s ongoing efforts to educate families about the advantages of MET through a series of webinars scheduled throughout the year. These sessions cover various topics, including the features and benefits of MET contracts and the broader tax advantages of 529 plans.

“This College Savings Month, we want to remind everyone that MET is more than a savings plan — it’s a pledge to the future success of our children,” Brewer noted. “MET is better equipped than ever to help Michigan students reach their goals.”

For more information about MET, visit SetWithMET.com [ [link removed] ].

*View eligibility requirements for the College Savings Month bonus. [ [link removed] ]



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MiABLE
MiABLE, Special Olympics Michigan celebrate inclusion at ribbon-cutting event for Unified Sports & Inclusion Center

MiABLE proudly partnered with Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) on Sept. 19 to celebrate the expansion of SOMI’s Unified Sports & Inclusion Center in Byron Center.

The event, which marked a major milestone for inclusion in Michigan, featured newly designed inclusive spaces for individuals with disabilities.

MiABLE, a key sponsor of the new facility, participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside dignitaries including SOMI President and CEO Tim Hileman and SOMI athletes including 55 participants in an athletic exhibition. MiABLE’s presence included an informational display at the facility’s MiABLE-sponsored sensory wall, where attendees could learn more about the disability savings program via a QR code.

Established in 2015, MiABLE allows individuals with disabilities and their families to save for future expenses without jeopardizing eligibility for government assistance programs like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income.

“Opening a MiABLE account empowers individuals with disabilities to improve their quality of life, including access to athletic and recreational opportunities,” said R. Scott de Varona, MiABLE program director. “Partnering with SOMI furthers our mission to open more doors of opportunity for people with disabilities.”

A highlight of the newly renovated facility is the MiABLE-sponsored sensory wall, designed to assist athletes and visitors with confidence-building. The interactive feature underscores MiABLE’s commitment to fostering inclusive environments and promoting financial independence.

“This wall is about inclusion,” de Varona said. “Just as MiABLE puts people on the path to financial independence, the wall provides a tool for people with disabilities to better navigate the building as they participate in athletic and recreational activities.”

Through partnerships like the one with SOMI, MiABLE continues to create opportunities that promote inclusion, both financially and through recreational access, for individuals with disabilities, as well as parents and caregivers.

MiABLE and SOMI share a common goal of promoting inclusion and opportunity for individuals with disabilities. Through partnerships like this, both organizations strive to create environments where people can thrive, whether through athletic participation or financial empowerment.

*Webinars Available to Educate Families on MiABLE’s Benefits*

As part of its ongoing outreach, MiABLE periodically holds informational webinars throughout the year to raise awareness about the financial tools available to individuals with disabilities. Attendees will learn how to open and use MiABLE accounts, explore qualified disability expenses and hear success stories from account holders. For more information or to open a MiABLE account online, go to www.MiABLE.org [ [link removed] ].

*About MiABLE*

MiABLE, established in 2015, stands for Michigan Achieving a Better Life Experience. The program allows individuals with disabilities to save up to $18,000 annually without risking eligibility for critical government assistance. MiABLE accounts grow tax-free and offer flexible options for expenses related to health care, housing, education and more.

*About Special Olympics Michigan*

Special Olympics Michigan provides year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, transforming lives and promoting inclusion through the power of sports.



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