L.E.E. League for Encouraging Empowerment

 Carmen Lee Peake, a lifelong resident of Cassopolis, is a proud graduate of the class of 1977. Her dedication to community well-being led her to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Health Care Management

 

After a fulfilling career, Carmen retired in 2021 from her role as a Community Health Worker at Niles Community Health Center. In this capacity, she was instrumental in connecting individuals with vital resources, advocating for health equity, and empowering community members to take charge of their health.

Beyond her professional life, Carmen is deeply committed to serving her community through various leadership roles. She passionately serves as the Youth Director at The Church of Cassopolis, guiding and mentoring the next generation with wisdom and compassion. Additionally, she is a dedicated Board Member of Cass Kickstart, actively contributing to initiatives that foster growth and opportunity within the community.

 

Carmen embodies a proactive spirit, consistently recognizing community needs and tirelessly seeking innovative solutions. She is renowned for her ability to identify gaps and mobilize necessary resources, ensuring that essential support reaches those who need it most. Her unwavering dedication and resourcefulness have made a significant and lasting impact on the lives of many in Cassopolis.

Rosemary Gillam, a proud graduate of Cassopolis High School, Class of 1973, has a distinguished history of public service and community involvement. Her career began with a significant role as the Village of Cassopolis Clerk, where she dedicated her efforts to the efficient operation of local government.

 

Beyond her administrative duties, Rosemary has always been a fervent advocate for health and wellness within her community. This passion led her to become an Exercise Leader for the Cass County Council on Aging (COA), where she actively promotes physical activity and healthy lifestyles among seniors.

 

Currently, Rosemary holds the esteemed position of Treasurer for Calvin Township, a testament to her continued commitment to sound financial management and community welfare. Her extensive experience in both village and township government makes her an invaluable asset.

 

Rosemary's deep-rooted connection to her community is evident in every facet of her life. She is not only active in various local initiatives but also profoundly passionate about nurturing the potential of the youth. Her dedication to their future underscores her belief in building a stronger, more vibrant community for generations to come.

Donna Warren has been a cherished member of the Cass community since 1982, dedicating her life to education and service. She embarked on her teaching career with Cassopolis Public Schools in 1984, inspiring countless students over the decades before her recent retirement. Her passion for the community continues through her active involvement with Cass Kickstart to Careers, where she proudly serves as a Board Member, contributing to initiatives that empower local youth.

 

Beyond her commitment to education, Donna is a pillar of strength and compassion within her church and local charitable organizations. She holds the esteemed position of President of the Missionary Society and Coordinator of the Food Pantry at The Church of Cassopolis, tirelessly working to support those in need.

 

Her dedication extends to the Helping Hands Food Pantry committee, where she also volunteers on a weekly basis, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to alleviating hunger in the community. Donna's life is also joyfully enriched by her active involvement with her grandchildren, embracing her role as a loving and supportive grandmother.

Deejra Lee, a proud graduate of Buchanan High School in 2005, continued her academic journey at Ashford University, where she earned a distinguished degree in Marketing and Public Relations. With a deep-seated commitment to serving others, Deejra actively contributes to the Cassopolis area, a community close to her heart where her husband's family resides.

 

As the esteemed President of North Woods Village, a specialized Memory Care retirement community, Deejra consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership and compassion. Her unwavering dedication to going above and beyond in assisting others has earned her numerous prestigious awards and accolades.

 

Deejra's passion extends beyond her professional role; she is a fervent advocate for community betterment and takes immense joy in witnessing the growth and development of the youth around her. In her cherished spare time, Deejra finds fulfillment in spending quality moments with her beloved family and indulging in her enthusiasm for sports.

 

A guiding principle in Deejra's life, and one of her favorite quotes, is the profound statement: "Be the change you want to see in the world." This mantra beautifully encapsulates her philosophy and dedication to making a positive impact on those around her.

Carmalita Lawson, a proud alumna of Ross Beatty High School, graduated in 2007, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey rooted in both academic excellence and a deep commitment to community upliftment. Her pursuit of higher education led her to Clark Atlanta University, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Music, specializing in Commercial Composition. This unique academic background equipped her with a creative and strategic approach to various endeavors, seamlessly blending her artistic passion with practical application.

 

Currently, Carmalita dedicates her full-time efforts to enriching young minds as a K-8th Music Teacher and Reading Interventionist. In this dual role, she consistently demonstrates an unwavering passion for fostering the academic growth and overall well-being of youth. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom, as she actively seeks innovative ways to inspire and support her students, cultivating an environment where learning is both engaging and impactful.

 

Beyond her professional life, Carmalita has maintained a steadfast connection to the Cassopolis community, a place she has called home since her formative years. From her teenage days through her adult life, she has been a driving force behind the planning and coordination of local events. These initiatives are thoughtfully designed to promote holistic wellness, provide essential resources, and offer positive entertainment, significantly contributing to the vibrancy and health of the community. Her efforts have created spaces for connection, growth, and shared experiences, reflecting her belief in the power of collective well-being.

 

 Her work with L.E.E underscores her commitment to empowering individuals and fostering a collective sense of pride and potential, leaving a lasting, positive impact on the lives she touches.

Felomina Patton dedicated her career to education, profoundly impacting students in various settings. She began teaching elementary and high school students in St. Louis, Missouri, from 1970 to 1974, gaining a broad understanding of diverse educational needs.

 

She then moved to Chicago, specializing in Special Education. There, she not only taught within the Chicago Public School system but also advanced to Special Education Coordinator. This leadership role allowed her to enhance and improve special education services for a larger student population, highlighting her commitment to inclusive education.

 

From 1984 to 1990, Felomina returned to elementary education in the Cassopolis School District, further diversifying her teaching experience and contributing to the foundational development of younger learners.

 

Her career then transitioned to administrative responsibilities as an Assistant Principal, offering valuable insights into school-wide operations. She also continued her work as a Special Education Coordinator, reinforcing her expertise and dedication to this critical area.

 

Felomina returned to the classroom, teaching fifth grade until her retirement in 2015, a phase that brought her back to direct student interaction, which she clearly cherished. Even after officially retiring, her commitment to education persisted. She continues to share her extensive knowledge and experience part-time at Andrews University, enriching the next generation of educators and learners. Her long and varied career exemplifies a deep, enduring passion for teaching and a steadfast dedication to the success of all students.