Vickie Micheau was recognized by the U.P. State Fair Authority Executive Committee following her induction into the Michigan Association of Fairs & Exhibitions Hall of Fame. Pictured from left to right are Matt Valiquette, operations manager for the UPSF; Linda Talsma, representing Marquette County; Ann Harrington from Schoolcraft County; Matt Jensen, UPSF Authority chair and resident of Delta County; Micheau; Senator Ed McBroom from Dickinson County; and Sheila Krueger, associate director of the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, the managing agency for the UPSFA.

ESCANABA – The Michigan Association of Fairs and Exhibitions (MAFE) recently announced the induction of Delta County’s Vickie Micheau into the MAFE Hall of Fame, recognizing her decades of exceptional leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to Michigan’s fair industry and community development–particularly her instrumental role in securing the future of the Upper Peninsula State Fair (UPSF).

Micheau’s legacy is deeply rooted in service to her community and to fairs across Michigan. As executive director of the Delta County Area Chamber of Commerce since 1999, she has led with energy, collaboration, and a steadfast belief in the power of community. Among her many accomplishments, Micheau was instrumental in the creation of the Governor’s Luncheon, held annually at the Upper Peninsula State Fair, strengthening the Chamber and UPSF’s visibility and connection to state leadership. She also helped launch the Delta Force Leadership Program, which has been developing community leaders for more than 20 years.

Her most enduring contribution to Michigan’s fair community came during a pivotal moment in 2009, when the State of Michigan announced the elimination of funding for the Upper Peninsula State Fair. Under Micheau’s leadership, the Chamber of Commerce mobilized quickly and decisively to preserve the fair. She helped guide a complex and historic transition from state oversight to local governance, coordinating efforts among state agencies, legislators, county officials, tribal partners and community leaders.

Micheau played a key role in establishing the Upper Peninsula State Fair Authority, ensuring representation from all 15 Upper Peninsula counties and the Hannahville Indian Community. She helped secure critical start-up funding, testified before the Michigan Senate Appropriations Committee and led communication and planning efforts that resulted in a seamless transition –allowing the fair to continue operations without interruption and ensuring its long-term sustainability.

Her service to the fair industry extends beyond the UPSF. Micheau was appointed by Governor John Engler in 2000 and reappointed by Governor Jennifer Granholm in 2007 to the Upper Peninsula State Fair Board of Managers. She also served on the Agricultural Tourism Board and the Council of Economic Advisors, advocating for the intersection of agriculture, tourism, and economic development throughout Michigan.

Micheau’s leadership has been recognized with numerous honors, including the ATHENA Leadership Award and the Sam Walton Business Leader of the Year Award. She has served on a wide range of state and local boards, always bringing a collaborative spirit and a deep appreciation for community impact.

“Vickie Micheau’s induction into the MAFE Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to a leader whose vision and determination safeguarded one of Michigan’s most treasured fairs,” said Ann Harrington, U.P. State Fair Authority treasurer representing Schoolcraft County. “Her work ensured that the Upper Peninsula State Fair not only survived but continues to thrive for future generations.”

Through her advocacy, strategic leadership, and positive attitude, Vickie Micheau has left an indelible mark on Michigan’s fair community, making her a truly deserving member of the MAFE Hall of Fame.

As the UPSF also aims to do, the mission of MAFE is to “promote the development of agriculture and related industries, coordinate the objectives of fairs and exhibitions across the state, inform and educate its members through meetings and an annual convention and encourage the participation of youth in these endeavors.”