top of page
4P4A5759.jpg

Badges

RC badges represent our approach to acknowledging learning among our team.  These badges offer our team members a chance to acquire, apply, and be recognized for the expertise and abilities essential to meet the demands of our clients and our business. As new proficiencies arise, badges symbolize CMURC's ongoing dedication to revolutionizing our methods of operation and enhancing the value we deliver.

Erin Strang President + CEO

Erin Strang

President + CEO

  • LinkedIn

Erin’s tenure with CMURC began in 2009. Under her leadership, CMURC has been recognized through the State of Michigan as one of the top performing business accelerators. In the past five years, CMURC demonstrated success by serving 1,588 unique companies, which directly led to the creation 508 new companies, 1,977 new jobs and $48,894,048 of investments. Erin has worked diligently in her position as President + CEO of CMURC to promote regionalism across the Great Lakes bay. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded from one location on the south end of CMU’s campus to four coworking facilities located across the region in Bay City, Midland, Mount Pleasant and Saginaw.

Badges

RC Facilitator Badge
Accelerator Genius Badge
Commercialization Specialist Badge
Investment Expert Badge
15 Year Service Badge
1M Deal Badge
Elissa Gagne Chief Operating Officer

Elissa Gagne

Chief Operating Officer

  • LinkedIn

Elissa started her tenure with CMURC in 2009. She is a Central Michigan University alumnus with a Master’s in Business Administration. Born and raised in Plano, TX, she is now proud to call the Great Lakes Bay Region home.  Her experience combined with a passion for innovation and creative business strategy made her the perfect fit to support startups and entrepreneurs. Elissa is instrumental in creating and implementing entrepreneurial programs and creating a work environment that is energetic, collaborative and educational.

Badges

Intake Specialist Badge
RC Facilitator Badge
Accelerator Genius Badge
Commercialization Specialist Badge
10 Year Service Badge
40k Deal Badge
Courtney Garrett Diversity + Business Development Director

Courtney Garrett

Diversity + Business Development Director

  • LinkedIn

Courtney began at CMURC in 2019. Driven by a passion to help build local small business, she takes pride in providing the best support, guidance and expertise to entrepreneurs in the Great Lakes Bay Region. As the Business Development and Diversity Director, Courtney’s role involves community outreach, fostering partnerships and supporters, and developing CMURC’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging initiatives. In her free time, Courtney enjoys spending time with her four children, and volunteering at community events.

Badges

Intake Specialist Badge
CoWork Expert Badge
5 Year Service Badge
6k Deal Badge

Kali Weiler

Analytics + Insights Director

  • LinkedIn

Kali has been a member of the CMURC team since 2019, currently serving as the Analytics and Insights Director. With a Bachelor's degree in Integrative Public Relations from Central Michigan University, Kali leads reporting and data analytic activities in the organization. Born and raised in Bay City, Michigan, she channels her creativity into developing impactful campaigns, collecting and reporting data, integrating AI and automation, and overseeing the cowork space team. Outside of work, Kali enjoys supporting local music, the outdoors and thrifting.

Kali Wickes Analytics + Insights Director
Erin Strang
Elissa Gagne
Courtney Garrett
kali weler
Intake Specialist Badge
CoWork Expert Badge
Digital Media Guru Badge
5 Year Service Badge

Badges

Elizabeth Propp Program Manager

Elizabeth Propp

Program Manager

Elizabeth began her tenure with CMURC in 2023. With over two decades of experience in business management, customer care, and employee training, Elizabeth is a a dedicated professional passionate about supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs. In her role as Program Manager, she is the front-line support provider for Right Choice and Accelerator program clients. Outside of CMURC, Elizabeth enjoys exploring the outdoors, spending time with family and freelance writing.

Badges

  • LinkedIn
Elizabeth Propp
RC Facilitator Badge
Accelerator Genius Badge
1 Year Service Badge
Andrew Mason Community Manager

Andrew Mason

Community Manager

Andrew started with CMURC in 2023. He has a diverse background in PR, communications, marketing, sales, and management, having studied PR and Public Administration at Central Michigan University. Currently serving as the Community Manager at CMURC, he oversees all space-related operations across four facilities, ensuring members receive optimal benefits from their memberships. Beyond the professional realm, Andrew volunteers with The Alzheimer's Association Michigan Chapter - Bay City team, contributing to marketing efforts and the success of their annual walk.

Badges

  • LinkedIn
Andrew Mason
Intake Specialist Badge
CoWork Expert Badge
1 Year Service Badge
Donald Bivens
Donald Bivens CoWork Coordinator

Donald Bivens

CoWork Coordinator

  • LinkedIn

Donald Bivens, serving as the Cowork Coordinator for CMURC Bay, is the go-to troubleshooter and problem solver for his facility, ensuring seamless operations and timely task completion. Armed with an Associates degree in Business and Marketing Management from Delta, Donald brings seven years of business experience from Beauty in Me. Beyond his professional and community commitments, Donald finds joy in music, playing drums and singing, and actively shares his passion for self-love through teaching.

Badges

Intake Specialist Badge
1 Year Service Badge
Corbin Pilaske
Corbin Pilaske CoWork Coordinator

Corbin Pilaske

CoWork Coordinator

  • LinkedIn

Corbin began his journey with CMURC in 2024. He serves as one of the CoWork Coordinators for CMURC Midland. Managing his facility to ensure all tasks and problems are dealt with professionally and quickly. With a Bachelor's degree in Management of Information Systems from Northwood University, Corbin provides expertise in technology support, website design/development, and project management skills. Out of the office, Corbin thrives on travel, cooking, and video games.

Badges

Intake Specialist Badge
Madison Craven
Madison Craven CoWork Coordinator

Madison Craven

CoWork Coordinator

  • LinkedIn

Madison joined CMURC in 2024. She serves as one of the CoWork Coordinators for CMURC Midland. Managing her facility to provide smooth operations and a professional environment. With a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Advertising from Central Michigan University, Madison brings extensive background in design, social media, and brand development. Outside her professional life, Madison enjoys playing and listening to music, fitness, and expressing herself creatively.

Badges

Intake Specialist Badge
bottom of page