NMU Social Work Masters Cohort Hosts Community Empowerment Panel

Local leaders discuss cultivating and empowering their communities in the Upper Peninsula.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:37am

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in warm, earthy tones depicting a group of people gathered in a cozy, intimate setting, their faces and forms blurred into soft, indistinct shapes, conveying a sense of community, connection, and the power of coming together.A community-driven panel discussion empowers residents to advocate for their needs and cultivate inclusive support networks in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.Marquette Today

A Northern Michigan University Social Work Masters cohort gathered four local leaders with backgrounds in social work, business, student experience, and mental health to discuss how they've been able to build up and empower their own communities in Marquette, Michigan. The panel was moderated by the Women's Center Program Director and covered topics of inclusiveness, making personal connections for greater impact, and strengthening movements to push for change.

Why it matters

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan often faces challenges in accessing funding and resources compared to other regions, so building strong community ties and advocacy efforts is especially crucial for residents. This panel provided a platform for local leaders to share their experiences and strategies for empowering their communities.

The details

The panel featured NMU Residence Advisor Kaitlyn Straschinske, Associate VP of Northern Student Experience Jeff Korpi, Founder of Queen City Running Company Kevin Thomsen, and Clinical Programs Supervisor of Pathways Community Mental Health Ashley Jenema. First-year Masters of Social Work student Rachael Phillips-Haroski noted the importance of having a supportive community network, especially during difficult times, in order to advocate for the needs of the Upper Peninsula.

  • The panel discussion took place on Wednesday evening at the Peter White Public Library in Marquette.

The players

Kaitlyn Straschinske

An NMU Residence Advisor who participated in the community empowerment panel.

Jeff Korpi

The Associate VP of Northern Student Experience who participated in the community empowerment panel.

Kevin Thomsen

The Founder of Queen City Running Company who participated in the community empowerment panel.

Ashley Jenema

The Clinical Programs Supervisor of Pathways Community Mental Health who participated in the community empowerment panel.

Hannah Holma

The Women's Center Program Director who moderated the community empowerment panel.

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What they’re saying

“In our area, we don't always receive as much funding or resources as others do, so there is a lot of emphasis on the importance of community up here. Especially in times of tragedy or in times of celebration, it's important to teach the community how to get together and advocate for their wants and needs.”

— Rachael Phillips-Haroski, First-year Masters of Social Work student

The takeaway

This panel discussion highlighted the critical role that community-driven advocacy and empowerment efforts play in supporting residents of the Upper Peninsula, where access to funding and resources can be more limited compared to other regions. The local leaders shared valuable insights on cultivating inclusive networks, making personal connections, and strengthening collective movements to address the unique needs of their communities.