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MARQUETTE -- InvestUP is calling on businesses, organizations, and local institutions across the Upper Peninsula to recognize the people whose determination, leadership, and years of service have made a lasting difference in their communities. Nominations are now open for the Nancy Douglas Award for Community Impact and Dedication, established in honor of Nancy Douglas, a Menominee County economic development trailblazer who built a lasting legacy by tackling difficult projects, bringing people together, and refusing to settle for the status quo.
"Mom put so much of herself into the community she loved. She believed in Menominee County, its people, and what could be accomplished when people worked together. When she saw an opportunity to make something better, she was determined to find a way to make it happen. Our family is incredibly proud to see her work remembered through this award, and I think she would be especially proud to know it will recognize others who share her dedication to their communities," said Millie Douglas, Nancy Douglas’s daughter.
Douglas was a respected leader in Upper Peninsula economic development, known for her candor, persistence, and ability to find solutions when resources were limited, and challenges seemed insurmountable. Her work contributed to significant community projects, including the Cedar River State Harbor and the historic Lloyd House redevelopment in Menominee. She also helped open doors for women in economic development and served as a trusted mentor to others working to improve their communities.
Charlie P. Cappaert, Senior Vice President and Chief Lending Officer of The Stephenson National Bank & Trust, explains, "Nancy Douglas’s impact on Menominee County and
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula was extraordinary. Through her leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to economic development, she helped create opportunities for businesses, communities, and families throughout the region. Although she is no longer with us, the positive effects of her work continue to shape the economic vitality of the Upper Peninsula. Her legacy of service, collaboration, and community growth makes her a truly deserving recipient of this honor.”
The award celebrates individuals who share Douglas’s commitment to making a meaningful difference in the region, particularly those whose contributions may not always receive the recognition they deserve.
“Nancy understood that economic development isn’t always easy or straightforward. She knew how to bring people together, work through challenges, and make things happen,” said Marty Fittante, CEO of InvestUP. “Across the U.P., there are people who have dedicated their careers to improving their communities, often working behind the scenes and with limited resources. This award is about recognizing that commitment, work, and spirit, and the lasting difference those individuals make.”
The Nancy Douglas Award recognizes individuals with at least five years of experience in economic, community, or workforce development in the Upper Peninsula. Nominees should demonstrate measurable community impact, creative use of limited resources, effective collaboration, and a willingness to take on difficult challenges. Sustained leadership, mentorship, and the ability to create lasting improvements are also key considerations.
The award also calls attention to the accomplishments of rural economic development professionals whose work offers valuable lessons for other communities. Their experience in overcoming barriers, building partnerships, and accomplishing more with limited resources can serve as a model for similar efforts throughout the region.
There will be a cash prize, and nominations are now being accepted. Individuals wishing to recommend a candidate should submit a narrative of 800 words or fewer explaining why the person deserves recognition. Nominations should also include specific examples of the candidate’s contributions and measurable results where available.
All submissions must be emailed to invest@investupmi.com and include the nominator’s name and contact information, along with the candidate’s name and organization, if applicable. Self-nominations will not be accepted.
Following the initial nomination process, selected candidates will be invited to complete the full award application.
For additional information about the Nancy Douglas Award, eligibility requirements, and nomination instructions, visit investupmi.com/nancy-douglas-award/.