Reynaert appointed Chief Operating Officer of Michigan Farm Bureau

Provides leadership and support in delivering programs and services to MFB members

PUBLISHED ON July 2, 2024

LANSING, Michigan – The Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) Board of Directors has appointed Michelle Reynaert as the organization’s Chief Operating Officer, effective July 29, 2024.

In her role, Reynaert will draw on her extensive operational leadership experience gained during her nearly 16-year career at Sparrow Health System, a regional, not-for-profit health care network with six hospitals and more than 130 care facilities with more than 8,000 caregivers and more than 2,000 volunteers in the Central Michigan region.

Most recently, Reynaert served as Sparrow’s vice president of community engagement, leading the largest fundraising campaign in the organization’s history. Previously, she held leadership roles at the Capital Area Humane Society, Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids and the Capital Area United Way.

As COO of MFB, Reynaert will lead and support the development and implementation of MFB’s organizational goals, strategic action plans and budget activities in delivering programs and services to MFB members. She will also oversee the activities of MFB’s affiliates, including the Michigan Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Association (MACMA) and Great Lakes Ag Labor Services (GLALS).

According to MFB President Carl Bednarski, Reynaerts’ unique skills as a results-oriented leader with a forward-thinking approach focused on organizational performance and dynamic growth have been evident throughout her professional career.

“She has an impressive track record of leadership in building strong teams, managing operations and achieving record-breaking organizational results, all of which are essential qualities to ensure the state’s largest general agriculture organization remains relevant to our members and Michigan agriculture,” Bednarski said.

Reynaert is an active member of numerous community and professional organizations in the greater Lansing area. Among other things, he is the current membership chair of the Lansing Rotary Club and past president of the group’s board of trustees.

She is also a member of Athena WIN, where she previously served as Chair of Executive Connections and on the Board of Directors, and a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Reynaert, a resident of Grand Ledge, holds a bachelor’s degree in advertising and public relations from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in administration from Central Michigan University.

“I am incredibly honored and excited to join the Michigan Farm Bureau family. The roots of this organization run deep and the people who support its mission are passionate advocates for our goals,” said Reynaert.

“This role is the perfect blend of the experiences I have gained throughout my career. I look forward to working with the board and team members to further enhance the services we provide to members and partners in agriculture and beyond.”

— Michigan Farm Bureau