A legacy of service that extends beyond county lines

Minding our own business

At the Delta County Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner on October 8, we had the privilege of recognizing individuals, businesses and organizations whose leadership, dedication and contributions continue to strengthen our community.

Among those honored was Stacy Welling Haughey, recipient of the 2026 Spirit of Service Award for Outstanding Contribution by a Delta Force Alum presented by the Daily Press.

Stacy’s story is a wonderful example of how leadership development can have an impact that extends far beyond the classroom, the workplace and even the community where that journey began.

A native of Powers and graduate of North Central Area Schools, Stacy earned her bachelor’s degree in business management and public relations from Northern Michigan University, followed by a master’s degree in public administration.

In 2003, while working in community relations and development at OSF St. Francis Hospital, Stacy participated in the Chamber’s Delta Force Leadership Program.

Delta Force was established to help emerging leaders gain a better understanding of their community, develop meaningful relationships and prepare themselves to take a more active role in shaping its future. More than two decades later, Stacy’s career provides an outstanding example of that mission in action.

Following her time at OSF St. Francis Hospital, Stacy served as Northern Michigan representative for Governor Jennifer Granholm. Her career then took her to Washington, D.C., where she served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Congressman Bart Stupak and as his campaign manager.

Despite the opportunities that took her beyond the Upper Peninsula, her commitment to the region remained strong.

In 2008, Stacy returned to the U.P. to become the Upper Peninsula Field Deputy for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, a position she continues to hold today.

In that role, she serves as an important connection between Upper Peninsula communities and state government, helping ensure that the needs, concerns and opportunities of our region are understood by decision-makers in Lansing.

The Delta County Chamber of Commerce and U.P. State Fair have experienced that commitment firsthand.

When concerns arose regarding a DNR Trust Fund appropriation supporting improvements at the U.P. State Fairgrounds, Stacy became an invaluable advocate. She helped bring our concerns to department leadership, kept the issue before the appropriate decision-makers and demonstrated

the importance of relationships, communication and a genuine understanding of the communities being served.

Her efforts reflected something we have long believed at the Chamber: effective leadership isn’t always about being the person in the spotlight. Often, it is about connecting people, opening doors, finding solutions and making sure important voices are heard.

That is precisely the kind of leadership Delta Force was created to encourage.

Throughout its history, the program has introduced participants to the people, organizations, opportunities and challenges that shape Delta County. While each class brings together individuals from different professions and backgrounds, the goal remains the same: to develop informed, engaged leaders who recognize the value of working together for the good of their community.

And as Stacy’s career demonstrates, the impact of that experience doesn’t necessarily end at the county line.

The relationships built, perspectives gained and commitment to service developed through leadership programs can influence communities and organizations for years to come.

One of the greatest rewards of being involved with the Chamber is seeing those connections come full circle. Individuals who once participated in programs designed to prepare them for leadership go on to become advocates, decision-makers, mentors and community champions.

Stacy Welling Haughey is certainly one of those individuals.

Her professional accomplishments are impressive, but equally meaningful is her continued willingness to use her experience and relationships to make a difference throughout the Upper Peninsula.

We were proud to recognize Stacy during this year’s Annual Dinner, and even prouder to celebrate her as a member of our Delta Force family.

Her story reminds us that when we invest in developing leaders today, the benefits can continue for generations.

Congratulations, Stacy, and thank you for demonstrating the true spirit of service.