Speakers

Katie Bigelow is the mother of Bret Bigelow, whose extraordinary journey inspired the creation of the Bret Bigelow Foundation. Born critically ill and discharged from the NICU against the odds, Bret faced significant disabilities throughout his life, and his story became the driving force behind the Foundation's mission to bring comfort and dignity to chronically ill children through BRETS, specially designed adaptive pajamas. Katie draws on her own firsthand experience caring for Bret to guide the Foundation's work, ensuring that families facing similarly complex medical journeys feel supported and less alone. As CEO of Mettle Ops and a decorated Army Aviator, she brings the same discipline, compassion, and problem-solving instinct she developed in her career to her role as Bret's mother and as a leader within the Foundation. Her devotion to Bret's legacy continues to shape the Foundation's commitment to serving children and families navigating chronic illness.

Brigette Wright is the Corporate and Foundation Relations Manager at Michigan Humane, where she manages corporate partnerships, foundation grants, and event sponsorships for the region's oldest and largest animal welfare organization. Before joining Michigan Humane, Brigette worked in juvenile justice, community mental health, and education, including leading advances for a Detroit public charter school district.  Across every sector, her work has centered on building community partnerships and mission-driven fundraising strategy to support the people and causes that need it most. Brigette lives in Detroit and is passionate about community-centered work that supports both people and animals.

Deborah Seelhoff is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and Positive Approach to Care Certified Independent Trainer with more than 11 years of experience in dementia care education and support.   She is dedicated to transforming dementia care culture by empowering families and training care partners in assisted living and memory care communities. Deborah’s work emphasizes uniting people living with dementia, their families, and care partners.  She believes dementia training is often optional, but essential for delivering high-quality, compassionate care and equipping care partners with the skills they need to succeed. Her passion is helping families navigate every stage of dementia with greater understanding, patience, and compassion. 

 

Kyra will review changes to the Birmingham Rotary website

Cory Keller, President and CEO of Friends for Animals, joined the organization in March of 2023. He has spent two decades in the animal welfare field working at humane societies, rescues, and previously running the division of Animal Control for the City of Cleveland. His experience working in non-profit organizations and municipalities in animal welfare has given him a unique view and the knowledge of how animal welfare organizations could be effectively run while making a larger impact and saving more lives.