The War Memorial 2025 Annual Report

2025

THE WAR MEMORIAL

ANNUAL REPORT

A LETTER FROM PRESIDENT & CEO

MARIA MILLER At The War Memorial, I'm reminded every day that our work is ultimately about people: those who have served, those we honor, and the community that gathers here. In 2025, I saw that come to life again and again.

This past year was especially meaningful as we marked the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War through our Conflict and Healing series. What stayed with me most were the personal moments—veterans sharing their stories, families listening across generations, and a sense of recognition that, for many, felt long overdue. Through programs like our Vietnam Veterans Luncheon and yearlong commemorative events, supported in part by grant funding, we created space for reflection, understanding, and connection.

One of the most powerful moments came at our Veterans Day Breakfast, where we welcomed Medal of Honor recipient Jim McCloughan as keynote speaker. Hearing his story, and seeing its impact on a room of veterans, families, and 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,

A LETTER FROM BOARD CHAIR

AMY CHESTERTON 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.

I have been humbled by the dedication of those I've served alongside. As I begin my transition from Board Chair, I am especially encouraged by our newer board members. Their perspectives and passion give me great confidence that the future of this organization is strong and full of promise.

I also remain deeply committed to preserving 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,

NOISSIM RUO

To honor those who served, to enrich our community, and to deliver exceptional experiences.

CORE VALUES

CURIOSITY Lead with imagination to be a catalyst for growth and innovation.

INCLUSIVITY Create a welcoming environment that embraces diversity.

E XC E L L E N C E Achieve the highest standards in all we do.

RESPONSIBILITY Uphold our commitment to veterans and our legacy.

STRATEGIC PLAN 20

25

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.

I N C R E A S E V I S I B I L I T Y and impact

Welcome W E L C O M200,000 E 2 0 0 ,guests.

0 0 0 Gto UESTS

of veteran programming and support.

to the campus each year to experience the diversity of offerings.

Be a R E G I O N A L L Y R E C O G N I Z E D Cultural, Arts, and Humanities center.

Attract and retain an

SAFEGUARD OUR H I S T O R I C E S T A T E for current and

future generations.

AWA R D - W I N N I N G T E A M through

an innovative workplace culture.

G R O W annual A N N U revenue A L R E Vto E N$10m UE Grown T O $ 1 0 M to meet operational and capital needs.

20 LEGACY 25 PRESERVATION

GRANTS AWARDED

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.

LIBRARY

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.

GARDENS

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.

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.

20 25

TCAPMI

commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War’s End

+37

1900+

93

792

VETERAN PROGRAMS

PATRIOTIC EVENT ATTENDEES

COMMUNITY HOURS OF FREE EVENTS PROGRAMMING

BY PARTNERS

78K+

LIVES TOUCHED

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PROGRAMMING 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.

320

CAMPVILLE PARTICIPANTS

5200+

SUMMERFEST ATTENDEES

200+

ENRICHMENT CLASS PARTICIPANTS

20 25 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.

INCOME STATEMENT OPERATIONS

FUNDRAISING

HOSPITALITY

Revenue

PROGRAMS

Total Revenue vs.

Total Expense

ADMINISTRATIVE

Expense

10%

$8,065,676 $1,055,022 $6,979,379 $761,678

13%

$371,700 $2,298,959

5%

$684,094

11%

$5,533,607 54%

28%

79%

$4,339,995 90%

82%

Balance Sheet

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

TOTAL LIABILITIES

$4,221,503

NET ASSETS

$37,425,845

REVENUE

EXPENSE

CONTINUE THE SUPPORT!

$ 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

20 25

donors $ 2 . 5 K A N D A B OV E

$ 15 K A N D A B O V E Alicia & Jonathan Taub Lisa Vallee-Smith & Jeff Smith

$ 10 K A N D A B O V 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.

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 Kelly & Brendan Walsh Kerry & Victor Peltola LaShanda & Terence Thomas Leah Celebi Lynn & Paul Alandt Mary & Richard Trost Mata & Anthony Kartsonas Maureen & Jerry Berndtson Nora Kachaturoff & Fred Zosel Patricia A. & Patrick G. McKeever Sr. Ralph Mandarino

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

$ 2 5 0 A N D A B OV E 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

EXECUTIVE OFFICE 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

THE WAR 20 Director of Facilities MEMORIAL Jay Benoit STAFF 25 Building Maintenance Supervisor FAC I L I T I E S Bryan Tampakes

Tim McCall

Event & Security Manager

H O S P I TA L I T Y

Alan Cronberger

Director of Hospitality

Event & Security Manager

John Axe Grounds Supervisor

Matt DeVerna Facilities Associate

Del’Shawn Dixon Facilities Associate

Andrew Jones

Alondra Benoit Joe Paxton

Executive Chef

Marty Astfalk

Executive Sous Chef

Anthony Aspeitia-Orozco Sous Chef

Will Colman Sous Chef

Melissa Gilbert

Brett Pulte

Facilities Associate

Digital Marketing Strategist

Donald Kummer

Alex Szwarc

Facilities Associate

Gionni McKinley

Patriotic Programming & Communications Administrator

Yolonda Porter

Derrick Mertens

COMMUNITY E N GAG E M E N T & PROGRAMMING Jennifer Sutton

Facilities Associate

Evan Sanders

Carrie Newman

Facilities Associate

Lisa Shefsky

Community Engagement Administrator

Accounting Manager

Kalik Jones

H I STO RY SERVICES

Guest Services Associate

DEVELOPMENT Meredith Hanoian Director of Fundraising and Development

Steward Supervisor Banquet Manager II

Matt McClain

Banquet Manager I

Crystal Celsi

Sarah Kowalski Curator

Betsy Alexander Historical Education Coordinator

Brenda Gibson Guest Services Associate

Line Cook

Michael Gerlach

Charlie Ohlsson

Lydia Jackson

Prep Chef

Shane Wagner

Facilities Associate

FINANCE

GUEST SERVICES

Prep Chef

Ben Ruthenburg

Director of Public Programs & Special Events

Community Engagement Coordinator

Prep Chef

HUMAN RESOURCES Ericka Sobczak

Director of Human Resources and Culture

Jake Miller

Human Resources Generalist

Banquet Operations Administrator

Nicole Holowaty Sales Manager

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

Maureen Berndtson

Amy Chesterton

20 25

Board Chair

Sierra Donaven

Donna Hoban, M.D.

Rachelle Economy

Immediate Past Chair

Charles Huebner

Jessica T. Gregory

Scottie Knight

Secretery

Richard Lueders

Aaron Turk

Salvador Martinez

Treasurer

Brent Ott**

Maria Miller

Victor Peltola**

President & CEO

Jodie Rappe, M.D.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS A DV I S O RY COUNCIL Gen. Rolf Mammen Alicia Nicholson Stephanie Nicholson Mary Lamparter (Committee Chair) Betsy Creedon Beverly Curtiss Walsh Edward Russell, III Amy Chesterton (Board Chair)

N O M I N AT I N G A N D G OV E R N A N C E COMMITTEE Maureen Berndtson Amy Chesterton Rachelle Economy Jessica T. Gregory Richard Lueders Terence Thomas Kelly Walsh

Nick Ritts Ed Russell III* Terence Thomas Lisa Vallee-Smith Kelly Walsh *Rolled off Summer 2025 ** Joined Summer 2025

DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Sierra Donaven Lisa Vallee-Smith

FINANCE COMMITTEE Charles Huebner Richard Lueders Brent Ott Nick Ritts Aaron Turk (Treasurer) As of December 2025

20 25

COMMITTEES