MEET DEBRA

Over three years ago, I began attending township meetings when it was revealed that most board members initially resisted releasing much-needed funds to NOCFA. Since then, I continued attending meetings and witnessed numerous issues: poor financial decisions, lack of professionalism, and overall dysfunction. 

Because of what I saw, I decided to expand from merely attending meetings into serving the community. I believe fulfilling the role of trustee fits well with my career choices of helping people and my business experience. 

After graduating from optometry school in 2000, I pursued advanced research opportunities as a Fellow at the Johns Hopkins Hospital Wilmer Eye Institute in Baltimore, Maryland. Upon completing my fellowship, my husband and I returned to Michigan, where I initially provided specialty eye care services to low vision patients within an ophthalmology practice.

In 2005, I purchased a private practice. In 2016, while still maintaining my private practice, I ventured into a different business field by purchasing a franchise that specialized in estate liquidation, home and business clean-outs, online auctions, and relocation services. 

As a small business owner, I handled all HR duties, ensured compliance with state laws and HIPAA regulations, managed staff, oversaw purchasing and retail sales, handled coding/billing of insurances and much more. 

My diverse experience in running successful businesses has equipped me with the confidence and skills to tackle new challenges. My people skills enable me to communicate effectively with various personalities, making me a strong yet approachable leader.