Hugh Madden

Executive Director

Hugh Madden is a lifelong Michigander. Hugh has worked on a wide variety of issues including health care, transportation, issues related to seniors and persons with disabilities, and transparency and accountability in government in both the public and non-profit sector. He believes issues are addressed most effectively by involving those affected by policy decisions in the process.

Hugh graduated from Wayne State University with a bachelor’s degree in Labor Studies. Hugh is originally from Downriver and currently lives in the Upper Peninsula. He enjoys attending DCFC soccer matches, exploring Michigan’s parks and watching freighters on the St. Mary’s River.

Fun fact: Hugh’s favorite park is Aspen Park in Gaylord because of its numerous hiking trails and beautiful aspen trees. 

Board of Directors

Gilda Z. Jacobs

Gilda Z. Jacobs has served as president & CEO of the Michigan League for Public Policy since 2011, following a 30-year career in public service at the local, county and state levels. Gilda has won numerous awards for her work, including being named as one of the 100 Most Influential Women in Michigan by Crain’s Detroit Business in 2016 and receiving the Michigan Food Bank Council’s Hunger-Free Award in 2015. In 2012, she participated in the Harvard Business School’s Strategic Perspectives in the Nonprofit Leadership Program. Gilda served in the state Senate for eight years after serving two terms in the Michigan House of Representatives where she made history as the first woman floor leader in either chamber of the Legislature. Prior to serving in the Legislature, she served as an Oakland County Commissioner and a Huntington Woods City Commissioner.

Cheryl Handsall

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Gary Shepherd

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