Five Kent County Locals Selected for 2025 MPLP
The Michigan Political Leadership Program (MPLP) at Michigan State University announced its 2025 cohort of fellows. Twenty-four individuals from across Michigan have been selected for this bipartisan leadership development program, managed by the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research (IPPSR). These fellows will embark on their training in February 2025.
Since its inception in 1992, MPLP has aimed to cultivate future political leaders capable of transcending party lines. More than half of its graduates have moved on to elected or appointed roles in government, a testament to the program's impact and its commitment to fostering bipartisanship.
"Given the current polarization in politics, both in Michigan and nationally, it's imperative we prepare leaders who can bridge divides," said Matt Grossmann, Director of IPPSR. "We are proud to sponsor MPLP, which not only educates on the critical issues facing Michigan but also teaches the art of bipartisan collaboration essential for our state's future."
Selections for the program were overseen by co-directors Former Republican State Senator Tonya Schuitmaker and Former Democratic State Representative Rudy Hobbs. The 2025 class includes five members from Kent County:
Jake Davenport (R), Lowell: A Ferris State University graduate and veteran of several political campaigns, Davenport has held numerous leadership roles in his community and is a former Regional Field Director for Mike Rogers' U.S. Senate campaign.
Allyson Faulkner (R), Rockford: As Director of Special Projects for the House Republican Caucus Committee and Making Government Accountable, Faulkner has led operations for a presidential campaign and spearheaded numerous strategic initiatives in donor relations and campaign management.
Jessica Gutowski-Slaydon (R), Rockford: President of Swift Printing Company and a Trustee for Cannon Township, Gutowski-Slaydon has a passion for her family's printing business, focusing on community engagement and sustainability.
Cindy Ramirez (R), Grand Rapids: An Inventory Accounts Payable Specialist with a background in finance, marketing, and graphic design, Ramirez has been a community advocate discussing the impacts of fiscal policies on everyday life.
Daniel Rivera (D), Wyoming: As the Senior Democracy Defense Manager for All Voting is Local, Rivera has been at the forefront of statewide initiatives to protect voting rights and ensure election accessibility.
The fellows will learn from diverse local communities, discussing significant state issues and laying a foundation for future leadership roles. To see the full class list visit https://ippsr.msu.edu/political-leadership/michigan-political-leadership-program-mplp
