Description

Our Legislative Breakfast brings together policymakers and advocates for a focused discussion on the legislative agenda ahead. 

Keynote Speaker:
Kelli Saunders
Vice President of Policy and Engagement
Small Business Association of Michigan

Kelli Saunders currently works for the Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM) as the Vice President of Policy and Engagement where she leads government relations, coalition building, event management and member engagement. She also sits on the Michigan Women’s Commission, which is a gubernatorial appointment where she has focused on issues facing women in Michigan surrounding childcare challenges and removing barriers to work across state government agencies. Prior to SBAM, she worked for the Edward Lowe Foundation as the Senior Executive Specialist based in Lansing. Additionally, she had worked in state government for 12 years. As the Chief of Staff for Lt. Governor Brian Calley, she worked on complex legislative issues and built coalitions to help Michigan’s most vulnerable citizens. Her work included supporting disability advocacy by developing the MI Hidden Talent Initiative, promoting comradery in state government through the implementation of the Relentless Positive Traction 5K Run/Walk, and successfully fundraising for and planning the 2016 National Lt. Governor’s Association Summer Conference in Grand Rapids. Saunders also worked for Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land as her Director of Public Affairs, focusing on the organ donor registry and the enhanced driver’s license implementation. She lives in Byron Center and received her bachelor’s degree from Aquinas College.