Introducing Laura Stroud: Our New Major Gifts Manager
Laura Stroud
We are excited to introduce Laura Stroud as the new Major Gifts Manager for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan. Laura brings a deep personal connection to our mission, having grown up in Ann Arbor, MI, and spent many years as a Little in our program.
Laura’s educational journey took her to the University of California, where she earned her BA in Politics and Applied Economics and was a member of the Women’s Basketball Team. This fall, she will complete the final course for her two Master’s Degrees at the University of Michigan, with her academic and professional background rooted in Public Policy, Policy Analysis, and Business Development.
Outside of her professional achievements, Laura has a vibrant personal life. She loves basketball, hiking, traveling, cooking, reading, and 2000s R&B. She is also a proud dog mom to two pups, Bean and Flo.
Laura is eager to bring her passion and expertise to BBBS and looks forward to making a significant impact on our community. We are confident that her dedication and background will greatly benefit our organization.
Introducing Bridget: Our New Match Support Specialist
Bridget Ekis
We are thrilled to introduce Bridget, our new Match Support Specialist on the program team at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan. Bridget Ekis, who joined us on July 22, has a rich background in early education, having spent the last three years supporting teachers, recruiting children for programs, and assisting families to ensure all their needs are met.
Bridget’s dedication to being a positive role model in a child’s life, especially outside of a familiar environment, is evident in her varied career. She has been a theater director, reading intervention teacher, and preschool teacher at a nature-based school in Chicago. Her passion and experience make her a valuable addition to our team.
In addition to her professional achievements, Bridget has a vibrant personal life. She loves to cook, with a particular fondness for Mediterranean and Greek-inspired cuisine. Bridget enjoys attending live art events and exploring new crafts in her spare time. She is also a proud dog mom to two pups, Jack and Dice, and has embraced the role of aunt with three nieces and two nephews.
Bridget is excited to work at BBBS and is eager to make a positive impact on the lives of children and adults across Southeast Michigan. We are confident that her enthusiasm and expertise will greatly benefit our organization.
Bigger Together! Join us in welcoming Laura and Bridget to the BBBS family. Their dedication and expertise are sure to make a significant impact on our community.
