Program Governance

Flowers Early Learning is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization governed by a Board of Directors made up of community leaders. The program also has an active, parent-elected Policy Council that plays a key role in decision-making, including reviewing budgets, grants, and policies. Policy Council members hold two seats on the Board, ensuring parent voices are represented at the highest level of leadership.

2025–2026 Board of Directors

Brian Saxton – Chair

  • Former Chief Executive Officer Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton Harbor

Arthur Havlicek – Vice Chair

  • President and CEO of Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber

Linda Tinsley – Secretary

  • Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of Southwest Michigan

Kacee Dochenetz

  • Assistant Prosecutor – Berrien County

Danielle Persky

  • Health Officer/Administrator – Van Buren/Cass District Health Department

Michael Mompremier

  • Business Solutions Manager – Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren

Stacey Stephens

  • VP, Sr. Commercial Loan Officer – Horizon Bank

Haylei Shepard

  • Policy Council Chair

Sara Parkhurst

  • Policy Council Vice Chair

Upcoming Board Meetings

All meetings will be virtual on Thursdays at 5:30 PM, except where noted.

Contact Chanda Hillman at chillman@flowersearlylearning.org for more information.

Board Meeting Minutes

2025-2026 Program Year

August 2025

October 2025

January 2026

2024-2025 Program Year

August 2024

October 2024

November 2024

January 2025

March 2025

June 2025