2025 ANNUAL REPORT
MARIA MILLER A LETTER FROM PRESIDENT & CEO
At The War Memorial, I'm reminde that our work is ultimately about p who have served, those we honor, community that gathers here. In 2 come to life again and again.
This past year was especially mean marked the 50th anniversary of th Vietnam War through our Conflict series. What stayed with me most personal moments veterans shar stories, families listening across ge a sense of recognition that, for ma overdue. Through programs like o Veterans Luncheon and yearlong commemorative events, supporte grant funding, we created space f understanding, and connection.
One of the most powerful momen Veterans Day Breakfast, where we Medal of Honor recipient Jim McC keynote speaker. Hearing his story its impact on a room of veterans, f students, is something I won't forget.
Some of my other favorite moments in 2025 were simpler ones: summer evenings on the lake during our free SummerFest concerts, families gathering and making memories; the gardens by the water and artwork in the studio halls; conversations with visitors who just wandered in to look around and learn about us.
I look ahead with both pride and a clear sense of responsibility We're building real momentum strengthening partnerships, investing in our campus and museum work, and expanding how we serve this community. I'm deeply grateful to our team, our supporters, and everyone who walks through our doors. Because of you, The War Memorial is not only a place to reflect on the past, but one where community continues to grow.
I'm excited about where we ' re going, and grateful to be on this journey together Thank you for being part of it.
Sincerely,
AMY CHESTERTON A LETTER FROM BOARD CHAIR
p y p
Over the past decade, it has been an honor to serve an organization so deeply rooted in our community. When I joined the Board in 2016, The War Memorial was on the cusp of a significant transformation one that would reimagine the campus and its facilities and expand what this place could mean to those it serves. What has emerged is more than a destination; it is a dynamic, evolving space that supports our mission while letting us keep investing in the programs, traditions, and shared experiences that define us None of it would be possible without the generosity and engagement of our community.
That spirit runs through the pages that follow, where you'll see both long-standing traditions and new programs. It's also felt in the everyday life of The War Memorial: the energy of a middle school dance, the quiet focus of a classroom, the creativity of an art studio, the connection of veterans gathering together. What inspires me most are the people who give their talents and treasures to make it possible. Through them, The War Memorial remains not only relevant but deeply meaningful a place shaped by many voices and enriched by diverse perspectives
of those I've served alongside As I begin my transition aged by our newer board members. Their perspectives at the future of this organization is strong and full of
rving what makes this place special: its historic architecture and its unique position as the only publicly accessible waterfront across the Grosse Pointes These are more than defining features—they are shared touchstones that connect us to our past while serving the community today.
At its core, The War Memorial reflects a community that shows up for one another. It is this collective spirit rooted in generosity, service, and shared pride that ensures this place remains not only preserved but truly alive.
Sincerely,
To honor those who served, to enrich our community, and to deliver exceptional experiences.
Lead with imagination to be a catalyst for growth and innovation.
Create a welcoming environment that embraces diversity.
Achieve the highest standards in all we do.
Uphold our commitment to veterans and our legacy.
STRATEGIC PLAN
LONG TERM GOALS
These long-term goals are intended to guide us for the next five years, as we focus on our history, our mission and ensuring financial sustainability. and impact of veteran programming and support.
Be a Cultural, Arts, and Humanities center. for current and future generations.
Welcome 200,000 guests. to to the campus each year to experience the diversity of offerings.
Attract and retain an through an innovative workplace culture.
Grown annual revenue to $10m to meet operational and capital needs.
20 25 GRANTS AWARDED
LEGACY PRESERVATION
In 2025, The War Memorial reached a pivotal milestone with the award of three major grants that advanced our historic initiatives and patriotic programming, helping to shape a strong foundation for the future.
Supported by a four-year, $204,771 grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, we made significant progress toward establishing a permanent collection developing the systems and spaces needed to preserve and share our historic objects and their stories. This investment also enabled us to hire a dedicated Collections Manager, strengthening our ability to care for and grow these important resources with professional stewardship
A one-year, $50,000 grant from the America250MI History Grant Program launched early planning for the Alger Hall of History, which will highlight Michigan’s civic and military legacy through engaging, interpretive experiences Additionally, a one-year, $20,000 grant from the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, through the Wilson Legacy Funds, supported a series of programs commemorating the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, honoring veterans and fostering community dialogue
Together, these grants mark an important step forward as we continue expanding our historic and educational offerings honoring service, enriching our community, and bringing history to life
HISTORIC
HOUSE FUND AND UPDATES
Support from generous donors including anonymous gifts and proceeds from the 2025 An Evening of Red, White and Blue powered meaningful progress through the Historic House Fund, allowing us to care for and revitalize key spaces within the Alger House
L I B R A RY
Restoration of the Library was completed in May 2025, bringing new life to one of the home’s most treasured rooms. Work included repairing water-damaged walls, restoring the ceiling, replacing baseboards, and deep-cleaning the fireplace. The highlight was the ornate coffered ceiling, carefully repaired, recast where needed, hand-gilded, and repainted to reflect its original grandeur
GA R D E N S
The garden’s brick walkways were restored in fall 2025 after the summer gardens were taken out With both beauty and safety in mind, more than 1,300 bricks were replaced This expanded effort, refreshed the space while preserving its historic and cherished character
T E R R AC E A N D STO R M D O O R S
Work also took place on the lakefront side of the Alger House, where new storm doors were installed and restoration of the terrace stairs was completed ensuring these well-used spaces remain both welcoming and sound
Together, these projects reflect a continued commitment to preserving the beauty, history, and functionality of this cherished landmark.
commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War’s End
A defining initiative of 2025 was The War Memorial's yearlong Vietnam War Commemoration, marking the 50th anniversary of the conflict. Made possible in part through support from The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds at the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and the Grosse Pointe Foundation for Public Education, the series brought veterans, students, and the community together through VetConnect Seminars, Vet-to-Vet gatherings, a Vietnam Veterans Day Luncheon, appearances by acclaimed authors and Medal of Honor recipients, film screenings, and educational programs Together with longstanding traditions like Memorial Day and the Veterans Day Breakfast, these programs honored those who served, inspired reflection, and strengthened connections across generations.
An Evening of Red, White & Blue
2025's elegant affair, held May 21st, supported the Historic House Fund's restoration of The Moorings, the iconic 1910 estate that has anchored community life for over 75 years. Guests toured the historic home, got a first look at the beautifully restored Library, and enjoyed a gourmet surf & turf dinner and a rousing live auction that raised vital restoration funds. We extend our deepest gratitude to Presenting Sponsors Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Moulton Alger III, and Platinum Sponsors Ann & Jim Nicholson, Corewell Health, PVS Chemicals, and Alicia & Jonathan Taub, whose steadfast support makes this work possible. The evening celebrated all that's been done and rallied support for the restoration ahead.
delivering exceptional experiences
In 2025, The War Memorial hosted 84 weddings and 190 additional social events, helping families and friends celebrate life's most meaningful milestones. Beyond private celebrations, we welcomed 488 community and nonprofit partner events and classes at heavily discounted or no cost, extending the reach of our historic estate to organizations and individuals across the community At every gathering, large or small, we remained true to our mission to deliver exceptional experiences creating moments of celebration, connection, and service throughout Grosse Pointe and beyond.
I M P A C T 20 25
PROGRAMMING 20 25
HIGHLIGHTS
Holiday Traditions
A season of Holiday Traditions kicked off with our Tree Lighting Ceremony, where a record 1,100 registrants enjoyed nostalgic carols, a vintage Christmas market, crafts, and storytime, culminating in Santa lighting our 20-foot outdoor tree. Bedtime Stories with Santa returned with an expanded third night and a free sensory-friendly session for families with special needs children, and the weather cooperated for Santa's helicopter arrival at our sold-out Breakfast with Santa! We also added a competitive Gingerbread House event and our first Merry & Bright Holiday Dinner, with Chef Joe's traditional meal in the historic Alger House followed by a performance from Ben Sharkey. Holiday cheer was had by all!
summerfest
A celebration of summer in Metro-Detroit’s Backyard, the 2025 SummerFest Series consisted of four concerts and two outdoor movies, all free and open to all! Highlights included a Wicked Movie Sing-a-long, complete with a scavenger hunt and appearances by Elphaba and Glinda, and a partnership with the Motown Museum to present Drey Skonie & the Klouds with a special pre-concert lecture on the Vietnam War’s influences on popular music, especially Motown, as a tie-in to the War Memorial’s Commemoration series. With over 5,000 registering for these special events, the War Memorial was proud to serve as a community gathering place open to all
second saturdays
The War Memorial hosted six themed Second Saturdays events in 2025, this low-cost family program providing a two-hour weekend escape for parents when the temperatures drop, as well as an introduction to War Memorial Classes and Special Events With seasonal themes, from Earth Day to At the Circus, families enjoyed storytimes, crafts, activities and a stage show. Planned events for 2026 include a nod to the Olympic Winter Games, a space themed adventure day, and a red, white & blue celebration.
FINANCIALS
Since 1949, The War Memorial has operated on a revenue-based model that combines earned income with charitable support. Through a diverse mix of community programs, hospitality services, facility rentals, philanthropic support, and fundraising, we generate the resources needed to fulfill our mission. This balanced approach allows us to invest in the people and places that matter most expanding opportunities, preserving our historic campus, honoring those who served, engaging our community, and enriching lives for generations to come
Financial strength is essential to fulfilling our mission With $41 6 million in assets and just $4.2 million in liabilities, The War Memorial maintains a healthy balance sheet that positions us to responsibly care for our historic estate while investing in programs and experiences that enrich our community.
TOTAL ASSETS $41,647,348
$ 5 0 K A N D A B OV E
David McKay Trust
Milner Hotels Foundation
Robert H. Tannahill Foundation
State of Michigan
Veronica & Fred M. Alger III
$ 2 0 K A N D A B OV E
Alicia & John Nicholson
Ann & Jim Nicholson
Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan
Stephanie & Timothy Nicholson
$ 15 K A N D A B OV E
Alicia & Jonathan Taub
Lisa Vallee-Smith & Jeff Smith
$ 10 K A N D A B OV E
Corewell Health
Oliver Dewey Marcks Foundation
PVS Chemicals, Inc
Questers 147 - Grosse Pointe Chapter
Rick Swaine
$ 5 K A N D A B OV E
Charles Schwab - Grosse Pointe
David Nicholson
Kathy Kinton Williams
Marcia & Ed Russell III
Mark Higbie & Gretchen Knoell
Mary & Ronald Lamparter
Northern Trust Company
Peter J. & Constance M. Cracchiolo Foundation
Sheri & Tymon Totte
Shumaker Family Foundation
Susie & Rick Lueders
Tracy & Jeff Jackson
Wolverine Packing Co.
20
25
donors
$ 2 . 5 K A N D A B OV E
Amy & Patrick Chesterton
Ann & Ted Mitchell
Brent Ott & Asif Iqbal
Cynthia & Daniel LaLonde
Diane & Ronald Strickler
Donna Hoban, MD
Frank Rewold & Sons
Jessica & Brad Gregory
Katie & Jim Brosnan
Laura & Charles Huebner
Laurie & George Bournais
Leland D. Blatt
Maria Miller
Mary McLeod Foundation
Meredith & Scott Hanoian
Nick Ritts
Nikki Charbonneau & Zak Bowdish
S. Gary Spicer
Scottie & Garland Knight
Senator Kevin Hertel
Winifred & John Hall
WITH OUR THANKS
$ 1 K A N D A B OV E
Alaina & Salvador Martinez
Angela & Antony Fears
Carol & Blaise Klenow
Changing Perspectives Counseling, LLC
Cheryl & Paul Vantol
Edsel & Eleanor Ford House
Edsel B Ford II Fund
Eric Smith
George Johnson & Company
Grosse Pointe Garden Center, Inc.
Grosse Pointe News
James Coleman
James Danaher
Jean Azar
Jean Hudson
Jeffrey Littmann
Jennifer & Reed Bingaman
Jessica & Drew Van Culin
Jessica & Jeff Huebner
Jodie Rappe, MD & Brian Dimmer, MD
Joe Ricci
Kelsey & John Burgess
Kenneth Kirchner
Lisa & Tim Frasier
Luisa & Aaron Turk
Mark Hughes
Maryann & Robert Bury
Maureen Berndtson
Melissa & Darren Werner
Molly & Robert Prim
NSDAR Louisa St Clair Chapter
Paige & Christian George
Pointe Alarm
Pointe Capital Management
Rebecca & Cory White
Robert Swaney
Sheri & Philip Allor
Sierra Donaven
The Grosse Pointe Public School System
The Helm
Theresa & Anthony Selvaggio
Valerie & Pat Moran
Walter & Sally Cytacki
William Hulsker
$ 5 0 0 A N D A B OV E
Alex & John Decker
Angie's Dream Vacations
Anne & William G Jennings
Becky Davenport
Beline Obeid, LLC
Betsy Creedon
Beverly Curtiss Walsh
Bruce Bradley
Butcher & Butcher Construction
Catherine & Robert Halso
Claudia Corrado
David Balle
Deb & Bill Champion
Don Lindow
Early Wellness Group
Francis Roney
Geri & John Daly
Gioconda & James Thayer McMillan
Jamie Rae Turnbull
Jeff Covey
Jennifer & Christopher Boettcher
Jennifer & Jeff Mertz
Jill & Richard Best
Karlin Flanery
Katie & Bill O'Keefe
alsh ola
ce Thomas ost artsonas erndtson
& Fred Zosel
k G. McKeever Sr.
Robert Krueger
Rolf Mammen
Rotary Club of Grosse Pointe-Sunrise Inc.
Roy Moore
Service Floor Covering, Inc.
Soave Foundation
Stacy & Keith Spondike
Susan & Hon. William J. Giovan
Susan & Patrick McKeever Jr.
Tina Wood
Vicki Liggett
Alaine Bush
Anne & Jon Ugval
Ben Ruthenberg
Bryan Tampakes
Cyndy & Bill Dorherty
Dale Scrace
Danielle Brousseau
Debra Van Elslander
Diane & Paul Sonnecken
Frank Tenkel
Jeff Brayton
Joanne Fisher
Lauren McGregor
Libby Candler & Dan Hughes
Michelle & Thomas Shore
Priscilla & Ronald Schaupeter
Rachelle & Stephen Economy
Richard H Allison
Robert G Kachman
Sherrie Jones
Steven Hicks
Ventz Potochnik
William Ventimiglia
O F F I C E
Maria Miller
President & CEO
Nikki Charbonneau Chief Operating Officer
Rick Swaine Chief Financial Officer
Claudia Corrado Executive Assistant & Board Liaison
Emily Orttenburger Administrative Director
C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
Leah Celebi V P of Brand Strategy and Engagement
Brett Pulte
Digital Marketing Strategist
Alex Szwarc
Patriotic Programming & Communications Administrator
C O M M U N I T Y
E N G AG E M E N T & P R O G R A M M I N G
Jennifer Sutton Director of Public Programs & Special Events
Charlie Ohlsson Community Engagement Administrator
Kalik Jones
Community Engagement Coordinator
Lydia Jackson
FAC I L I T I E S
Bryan Tampakes Director of Facilities
Jay Benoit
Building Maintenance Supervisor
Tim McCall
Event & Security Manager
Alan Cronberger
Event & Security Manager
John Axe
Grounds Supervisor
Matt DeVerna
Facilities Associate
Del’Shawn Dixon
Facilities Associate
Andrew Jones
Facilities Associate
Donald Kummer
Facilities Associate
Yolonda Porter
Facilities Associate
Ben Ruthenburg
Facilities Associate
Evan Sanders
Facilities Associate
FINANCE
Lisa Shefsky Accounting Manager
H I S TO R Y
S E RV I C E S
THEWAR MEMORIAL STAFF
H O S P I TA L I T Y
Alondra Benoit Director of Hospitality
Joe Paxton Executive Chef
Marty Astfalk Executive Sous Chef
Anthony Aspeitia-Orozco Sous Chef
Will Colman Sous Chef
Melissa Gilbert Prep Chef
Gionni McKinley Prep Chef
Derrick Mertens Prep Chef
Shane Wagner Line Cook
Carrie Newman Steward Supervisor
Michael Gerlach Banquet Manager II
Matt McClain Banquet Manager I
Crystal Celsi Banquet Operations Administrator
Nicole Holowaty Sales Manager
Guest Services Associate
Brenda Gibson
Guest Services Associate GUEST SERVICES
D
E
V E L O P M E N T
Meredith Hanoian Director of Fundraising and Development
Sarah Kowalski Curator
Betsy Alexander
Historical Education Coordinator
H U M A N
R E S O U R C E S
Ericka Sobczak Director of Human Resources and Culture
Jake Miller Human Resources Generalist
Lindsay Sheridan Event Coordinator II
Lilly Vulaj Event Coordinator II
Maeve Astfalk Event Coordinator I
This staff list does not include part-time seasonal waitstaff
Current as of April 2026
Amy Chesterton Board Chair
Donna Hoban, M.D. Immediate Past Chair
Jessica T. Gregory Secretery
Aaron Turk Treasurer
Maria Miller President & CEO
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Gen. Rolf Mammen
Alicia Nicholson
Stephanie Nicholson
Mary Lamparter (Committee Chair)
Betsy Creedon
Beverly Curtiss Walsh
Edward Russell, III
Amy Chesterton (Board Chair)
Maureen Berndtson
Amy Chesterton
Rachelle Economy
Jessica T. Gregory
Richard Lueders
Terence Thomas
Maureen Berndtson
Sierra Donaven
Rachelle Economy
Charles Huebner
Scottie Knight
Richard Lueders
Salvador Martinez
Brent Ott**
Victor Peltola**
Jodie Rappe, M.D.
Nick Ritts
Ed Russell III*
Terence Thomas
Lisa Vallee-Smith
Kelly Walsh
*Rolled off Summer 2025 ** Joined Summer 2025
Charles Huebner
Richard Lueders
Brent Ott
Nick Ritts
Kelly Walsh Sierra Donaven Lisa Vallee-Smith
Aaron Turk (Treasurer)
As of December 2025
