North Star Reach, the ninth U.S. residential camp in the SeriousFun Children’s Network founded by actor and philanthropist Paul Newman, has added Carly Colen and Katie French to its board of directors through the University of Michigan Board Fellowship Program. Colen and French were unanimously elected by the board at its September meeting, and will serve a one-year term.
“On behalf of the North Star Reach board members, we are excited to welcome Carly and Katie to our team,” said Anna Maiuri, board vice chair. “They bring a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives through their academic and professional experiences. I look forward to mentoring them throughout the year and know their insights will greatly enhance our governance efforts.”
Colen is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public policy at the University of Michigan’s Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. She previously earned a master’s degree in peacebuilding and mediation at the University of St Andrews as part of the Emory & St. Andrews Robert T. Jones Scholar program, and she holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Emory University. Colen also brings valuable camp experience, having worked with the Foundation for Jewish Camp and Beber Camp.
“I’m honored to join the North Star Reach Board and contribute to a mission that brings so much joy and transformative experiences to children and families,” Colen said. “I’m eager to draw on my 12 years in the camping world to create an even greater impact.”
French is a candidate for a master’s degree in sport management through the University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communication from Michigan State University. She also has extensive experience working with children facing serious health challenges through her roles with Children’s Miracle Network Dance Marathon, Beekman Therapeutic Riding Center, Sparrow Hospital, and the Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Michigan.
“Joining the North Star Reach Board is an incredible opportunity to make a difference for children who deserve a place where they can feel a true sense of belonging,” said French. “I’m excited to use my philanthropic background and experience to contribute to North Star Reach this year.”
As ex-officio members, Colen and French will be working on key governance projects at North Star Reach. Colen will lead efforts to refine the organization’s onboarding process, helping to create a more comprehensive and engaging experience for incoming board members and staff. French will focus on governance review and committee design, including a revision of the by-laws and board policy manual.
“We are thrilled to welcome Carly and Katie to our Board through the University of Michigan Board Fellowship Program,” said CEO J.J. Lewis. “Their passion for our mission and their unique perspectives will help us continue to move forward in delivering life-changing camp experiences to children with serious health challenges. As we expand our board, we welcome more community members to get involved and make a difference.”
North Star Reach is currently recruiting for its board of directors and various committees. If you are interested in supporting its mission, contact CEO J.J. Lewis at (734) 680-8744 or jj@northstarreach.org.
About North Star Reach
North Star Reach offers life-changing, year-round programs for children with serious health challenges and their families, free of charge. Situated on 105 acres in Pinckney, North Star Reach has provided a medically sound camp experience during which more than 3,000 children have created lasting memories in a safe and supportive environment through over 8,000 life-changing camp experiences.
For more information, visit North Star Reach’s website and follow it on social media.
