Fisher House Michigan (FHM) in Ann Arbor announces the addition of several individuals to its board of directors and advisory team. These new members bring a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to our mission of supporting the families and caregivers of hospitalized veterans.
“Welcoming these incredible leaders to our Board and Advisory team marks a significant milestone for Fisher House Michigan,” says Kate Melcher, executive director of Fisher House Michigan. “Their diverse expertise and unwavering dedication will undoubtedly strengthen our efforts to provide comfort and support to the families of our nation’s heroes. We are truly honored to have them on the team.”
Melissa Johnson, principal in charge of assurance and financial reporting at Rehmann, has been appointed the new treasurer of the Fisher House Michigan Board of Directors. Johnson is a Marine Corps Veteran Spouse, and her extensive background in finance and commitment to veteran services is said to be invaluable as the organization continues to grow and serve the community. Her expertise in assurance and financial reporting is expected to bolster Fisher House Michigan’s record of financial transparency and careful stewardship of the donor dollar, helping donors give with confidence.
Joining Johnson on the board are three additional members:
Nancy Dakin, a retired colonel with three decades of military service in the United States Air Force and Air National Guard, has dedicated her post-military career to community service, particularly supporting veterans and dogs. Dakin has been a volunteer with Fisher House Michigan since 2020 and currently serves on the board of directors for Dachshund Haus, Corgi Rescue, and Sarge’s House.
Cemone Moy, manager for foreign military sales (FMS) and international program sustainment at General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS), is a professional passionate about community development, education, and leadership. Moy actively serves on several boards, including Four Corners Montessori Academy and Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County, and has been an advocate for equity and inclusion in her community.
Warren Sponsler, COO at the National Advanced Mobility Consortium (NAMC), brings his extensive experience fostering innovations to support the U.S. military’s advanced ground vehicle capabilities. Sponsler retired as a colonel in the U.S. Army in 2022 after more than 26 years of active duty, during which he held significant leadership roles, including deputy director and chief of staff of the Next Generation Combat Vehicles Cross-Functional Team at the Army Futures Command.
In addition to the new board members, the following advisors have been added:
- Brian Gawne (Navy veteran and former Fisher House Foundation staff)
- Misty Martin (Army veteran and defense industry business owner)
- Pamela Tolliver (Air Force veteran and Detroit Fisher House manager)
Fisher Houses are comfort homes for the families and caregivers of hospitalized veterans, built near military and VA hospitals worldwide. Michigan’s first Fisher House opened in June 2020 and is about to host its 10,000th guest!
Meanwhile, construction began in October 2023 on a Fisher House to support the VA John D. Dingell VA Medical Center in Detroit. This new Fisher House will accommodate up to 16 families on any given night, serving as a temporary home-away-from-home for the families and caregivers of veterans receiving treatment at the Detroit VA.
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