Yesterday, Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson welcomed members of the 2014 Class of Elite 40 Under 40 for a morning forum to meet and network in a more personal setting.
Members of the 2014 Elite 40 Under 40 class (L-R): Matt Mosteiko, Lisa Forzley, and Jennifer Llewellyn. (Not pictured: Kelley LaFontaine)
Elite 40 members present at the forum were Matt Mosteiko (Meteorologist Intern at the National Weather Service and Past Company Commander of the 952nd Quartermaster Company), Lisa Forzley (Humane Education Manager at the Detroit Zoo), Kelley LaFontaine (Dealer Principal/Owner of the LaFontaine Automotive Group) and Jennifer Llewellyn (Director of Oakland County Michigan Works – Troy.)
It was the third forum held for the 2014 class, which also included Oakland County Deputy Executive Matt Gibb, and Director of Economic Development and Community Affairs, Irene Spanos.
This forum brought in a diverse group of young professionals, all excelling in their industries. In addition to his service to our country as a Past Company Commander, Matt Mosteiko’s work with the National Weather Service helps to increase public awareness for weather safety – which has been a popular topic these past few weeks of severe weather hitting Oakland County.
Also dedicated to educating the public, Lisa Forzley’s position at the Detroit Zoo is the only position of its kind in the entire country; as a Humane Education Manager, Lisa teaches the public how to “do the most good and least harm for ourselves, the animals, and our planet.” She works with individuals of all ages to help them recognize the importance of being humane in the world, and how to minimize their footprint on Earth.
A well-known name throughout Southeast Michigan, Kelley LaFontaine is proud to work hand-in-hand with her family at LaFontaine Automotive Group, and is passionate about giving back to the community. Under her leadership, LaFontaine Automotive Group has donated over half a million dollars to local communities since 2013, and is continuing to grow; in about three weeks, the company will be opening up its 20th franchise.
Now in her 16th year at Oakland County Michigan Works! – Troy, Jennifer Llewellyn has seen the impact that the 2008 recession had in Michigan. As Director, she coordinates all business services, and is dedicated to helping job seekers find employment. Now, with the economic rebound happening in Oakland County, Jennifer is working directly with companies to address their needs first – and finding the perfect talent for them.
The Elite 40 networking forums give class members and Oakland County leaders the chance to discuss potential opportunities – from volunteerism, to partnerships, and beyond.
“I really enjoy these forums because it gives me a chance to get to know you better,” Patterson said. “And afterwards, I’m reaffirmed as to why you were selected to be a part of the 2014 class. You all are doing great things right here in Oakland County. And we want you to be involved in what we’re doing. We want your input.”
The Oakland County Executive’s Elite 40 Under 40 program shines a spotlight on the young men and women who are excelling in their fields and giving back to their communities in a way that improves quality of life. To learn more about the program and to view the entire 2014 Elite 40 Under 40 class, click HERE.