
4 minute read
New Faces in New Places

HOLLY RIDENOUR
Chelsea – Welcome to Silver Maples of Chelsea President and CEO, Holly Ridenour. Holly joined SMOC in January and brings a wealth of experience in senior living, leadership, and organizational development to her new role, succeeding former President and CEO, Julie Deppner. Holly has held several positions over her 20year career, including leadership roles in both for-profit and nonprofit senior living communities. She’s a passionate, ethical leader who believes in working closely with the community and key stakeholders to build meaningful connections that lead to shared success. Holly is excited to join the Silver Maples leadership team, and a community that values compassion, transparency and integrity, values she holds close.

ANNE PEKRUL
Dexter – Welcome to Anna Pekrul, Dexter Senior Center. Originally from Marquette, Michigan, Anna has lived in Southeast Michigan for the past eight years. She earned a bachelor's degree in social work from Eastern Michigan University and a master's degree in social work from the University of Michigan, focusing on social policy and older adult services. After graduating, she worked as a management and grant consultant, supporting senior centers, Area Agencies on Aging, and other non-profit organizations across the country. Anna became the Executive Director of Dexter Senior Center in January and is excited to help the center grow as it prepares to move into its new facility in late spring, 2025.

RUTH VANBOGELEN
Manchester – Congratulations to Ruth VanBogelen, long time Manchester resident, who has taken on new responsibilities of co-chairing the Manchester Wellness Coalition. This role was held by Ray Berg from the coalition’s inception in 2012. Ruth is very familiar with community wellness from past roles on the 5HF staff and board. She was awarded 5HF’s 2020 Lifetime Achievement Award as a wellness ambassador in her community - instrumental in establishing the community garden and the TOPS program, both of which have seen great success in Manchester. As a scientist, she also supported Math and Science Night at the schools and led the Manchester Wellness Coalition’s efforts to be data driven –using available data to support new wellness initiatives.

NICK ANGEL
Grass Lake – Welcome to new Grass Lake Community Schools Superintendent, Dr. Nick Angel, who took on his new role at the start of the 2024/2025 academic year. Nick began his tenure expressing gratitude and enthusiasm about the strengths of Grass Lake schools and students and supporting community wellness. His background in education spans over 21 years with 16 serving in school leadership positions, which shaped his approach to leadership and learning. He serves the community on the Chelsea Hospital Board, the Grass Lake Chamber of Commerce and the Grass Lake Education Foundation. In addition, he works with future educators as an Assistant Professor in the Education Department at Madonna University. He is proud of the district’s commitment to educational excellence and honoring the community’s traditions.

JILL OGDEN
Stockbridge – Thank you to Jill Ogden, who is in her second term as President of the Village of Stockbridge and has served on the Stockbridge Community School District Board of Education since 2019. She has also held the position of Village Manager for the past two years.
Jill became more active in the community following her volunteer work with Outreach and the Panther Cubs PTO as well as employment with Stockbridge Township. Her wheelhouse lies in community-building and she enjoys working on projects that provide critical services and enrichment to local residents. These projects include the teamwork required to bring a health care center to Stockbridge, new parks and recreation services, helping to organize the annual Stockbridge Harvest Festival, and improving walkability in the Village as well as promoting the biking and hiking opportunities the Stockbridge area has to offer.
In her free time, she enjoys exploring the local trails with her family and seeing eye dog Cliff, reading, writing, crocheting, and finding new ways to create beautiful things.