Alumni board candidates' statements
Graduate Candidates
Christopher Bergeron, MPP/MBA ‘94
Windermere, FL
Retired
After receiving my MPP/MBA, I joined EY to advise clients in regulated industries. Later, I focused on financial services, and the new requirements related to employee skills that emerged after the subprime mortgage crisis. I advised banks and served in leadership positions at PNC Financial Services, overseeing career development and employee assessment. Looking back, I am most proud of having been able to serve as a mentor at various points in my career. I recently retired from consulting to spend more time helping my parents.
I can add value as a recent consulting and HR leader who has been involved in all aspects of recruiting and employee development. I also see an opportunity to help increase engagement with alumni who are at similar points in their lives and would like to get more involved.
I feel a deep sense of gratitude towards the Ford School (IPPS) for providing me with the foundational tools and perspectives that I continue to draw upon today. Serving on the Alumni Board would be a great privilege to give back.
Mallak Beydoun, MPA ‘22
Dearborn, MI
Chief Policy Officer, Chase & Porter, LLC
I have built my career at the intersection of policy, politics, and community impact, focusing on turning complex challenges into clear strategies. My decades of professional experience spans from Detroit’s City Hall to regional initiatives, with expertise in economic development, clean energy, and public sector reform.
I will bring this strategic, results-driven mindset to the Alumni Board. I can immediately add value by leveraging my network to strengthen career services and expand the professional alumni network. My commitment to students is demonstrated by annual invitations to teach a policy power mapping course at the PPIA summer program. My deep knowledge of the government landscape provides unique insight for the School’s ongoing meaningful city engagement.
The Ford School fundamentally shaped my path in public service. Serving on the Alumni Board is my chance to give back, actively support the next generation of policy leaders, and help ensure the school remains at the forefront of public policy education and impact.
Sam Conchuratt, MPP ‘21
Washington, DC
Senior Policy Advisor, U.S. Senate Committee on Finance
I currently serve as a Senior Policy Advisor on the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, where I lead portfolios for Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. In this role, I develop solutions to make it easier for seniors, people with disabilities, and their families to live and work with dignity.
To the Board, I would bring a deep understanding of the federal policy and political landscape, as well as subject matter expertise in social insurance. As a supervisor, I would bring my mentorship experience into interactions with current and prospective students. I also collaborate regularly with advocates, contributing a strong skillset in coalition-building.
Personally, it would be meaningful to support current and future Fordies, as my own time at Ford was invaluable, where I found a community of lifelong friends—including my wife. Professionally, the need for individuals dedicated to the public good has never been more pressing. As a Board member, I would offer my experiences in service of promoting and strengthening the pipeline of leaders in the public sector.
AJ Convertino, MPP ‘22
Washington, DC
Policy Advisor, U.S. Department of Defense
The Ford School shaped my career and worldview, and I am eager to give back to the community that gave me so much. As a Policy Advisor at the Department of Defense and an Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University, I work at the intersection of emerging technology and foreign policy, developing recommendations for senior U.S. leadership on national security space efforts. My past experience also spans secondary education and environmental policy, deepening my commitment to public service.
I want to serve on the Alumni Board to strengthen the bridge between students and alumni and to help ensure that future generations benefit from the same mentorship, guidance, and opportunities that shaped my own path. As a former Social Chair of the Student Affairs Committee and an active mentor to current and prospective Ford students in DC, I have seen firsthand how alumni engagement can transform careers and inspire public service.
If selected, I will work to create meaningful connections between students and alumni, support efforts to broaden recruitment and resources for the school, and help foster an engaged, thriving Ford community that continues long after graduation.
Kham Doan, MPP/MBA ‘98
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Founder & CEO, Horizon Capital Advisers
After earning an MBA-MPP from the University of Michigan, I began my career at Banc of America Securities, building a strong foundation in investment banking, capital markets, and global finance. Motivated to apply these skills in a more impactful context, I relocated to Vietnam and joined the International Finance Corporation, the private sector arm of the World Bank, working with business leaders and policy makers on private sector development and economic growth. I later founded my own investment firm, contributing to the development of Vietnam's bond market and stock exchange in partnership with public and private sector stakeholders. I also served for over a decade on the board of a community foundation dedicated to inclusive development and civic engagement in Vietnam. The education I received from the Ford School, my Woodrow Wilson Fellowship, and the strength of Michigan’s global alumni network, all played an important role in my career and I would like an opportunity to give back to the Ford School and further strengthen its global connections through service on the Alumni Board.
Ben Eikey, MPP ‘19
Detroit, MI
Manager State Training and Development, Wayne State University
I work with state legislatures across the country to help build oversight capabilities, and for the Board I bring access to a national network of state leaders focused on fact-based public policy decisions. I can help with any Ford School effort in any state. I want to serve on the Alumni Board to learn how other Fordies are making a positive impact, and to help boost the student and alum experience in any way I can. Go Blue!
Eliza Erickson, MPP ‘10
Philadelphia, PA
Director of PLC Innovation, Office of Transportation & Opportunity/Office of Governor Josh Shapiro
I've had the pleasure of serving on the Alumni Board for the past three years as a general member, co-chair of the Student Engagement Committee, and now as Vice-Chair. Over that time, I've worked hard to add clarity and structure to the organization, ensuring that the board is able to meet the needs of Ford's myriad stakeholders. More importantly though, as someone who felt a bit "lost" during my time as a student at UM, I think my greatest asset is advocating for students who also aren't quite sure where they might fit in either professionally or academically. I'm grateful for what I've been able to accomplish in my first term, and would be so grateful for the chance to give back to this community for another term on the board
Tara Lanigan, MPA ‘21
New York, NY
Senior Director for Strategic Partnerships, The Center for Smart Streetscapes at Columbia University
My path from Michigan undergrad to the Ford School was shaped by a simple theme: combining innovation with public service. Working at Detroit-based startups and engaging in local issues in Southeast Michigan convinced me to apply to Ford, where I gained policy training to pursue that vision.
Since then, I’ve carried those lessons into roles spanning policy, technology, transportation, and government. I currently help industry, cities, policymakers and researchers work together to solve pressing urban challenges at an engineering research center. Previously, I launched a transportation technology grant program at the U.S. Department of Transportation and advanced sustainability initiatives at the White House. Alongside this work, I’ve stayed engaged locally in New York City, continuing the tradition of service I began in Ann Arbor.
On the Alumni Board, I would bring not only professional expertise, but also a passion for connecting people, strengthening communities, and ensuring students and alumni feel supported to lead with purpose, wherever they are.
Scott Sinder, MPP/JD ‘87
Washington, DC
Partner, Steptoe LLP
I am a partner in the Washington, DC-based law firm Steptoe LLP. I am a member of the firm’s Executive Committee and I chair our Government Affairs & Public Policy practice group.
My work is principally focused on federal and state legislative and regulatory policy advocacy, primarily in the financial services/insurance spaces. I have worked on almost every significant piece of federal financial services and tax reform legislation enacted during the last 30 years. I also serve on the Boards of Directors of the José Andres Group, Unison Risk Advisors, Westfield National Bank, and the Foundation to Eradicate Duchenne.
I want to serve on the Alumni Board because I would like to give back. My best school year was my first year in the MPP program and the knowledge and perspectives I gained through the program have been foundational for me. If I have the opportunity to serve, I look forward to sharing those experiences and to helping to contribute to the on-going evolution of the Ford School and of our Ford School community.
Bill Vajda, MPP ‘87
Washington, DC
Special Government Employee, U.S. Department of Treasury
I offer 40+ years of government experience with International, federal, state, and local governments. I've served in several senate confirmed and diplomatic roles. 25+ years senior executive experience. Areas of expertise include technology transfer; Modernization; digital transformation, AI, and cybersecurity. I believe these areas have timeless relevance, and given the ubiquitous nature of technology, are a natural concern of forward leaning Boards. I am a Jack of All Trades, and would like to serve on the Board to share my experiences, and help students contemplating international careers.
Pablo Velázquez, MPP ‘14
Ciudad de México, México
Senior Manager of Innovation, Design, and Strategy, INFONAVIT
As an international alumnus, I am interested in seeing the University of Michigan recognized in Latin America, especially in Mexico. The knowledge and experience I gained from the Master of Public Policy program changed my life for the better.
Since earning that degree, my work has been multidisciplinary: I have worked in civil society organizations to increase student enrollment in Mexico; I participated in the first oil auctions in my country by establishing the parameters for the tax regime; and, in recent years, I have sought to help more people keep their homes in Latin America's largest mortgage market.
I wish to bring my multidisciplinary experience to new generations and show them how the Ford School's education allows you to engage in different topics with the same rigor. I bring to the table an international dimension, as an alumnus who has pursued his career outside the United States and whose vision can complement the school's domestic vision.
Undergraduate Candidates
Jasmine Kaltenbach, BA ‘21
Detroit, MI
Michigan Director, Home Rule Project
As an Alumni Board member, it will be my goal to connect Fordies with opportunities to become involved with prescient Michigan policy issues. While a BA student, I worked developing the local government policy and advocacy arm of the Michigan AFL-CIO. I managed a team of 30+ interns, many of them Fordies, to write a local government policy index. Following graduation, I worked full time at the Michigan AFL-CIO where I performed legislative research, lobbying, and ran the labor movement’s groundbreaking advocacy campaign for the repeal of Right to Work and the creation of a Just Transition office. I’m now at the Home Rule Project where I’m working with unions to educate union members and build coalitions around the state preemption of local labor laws, an area in which I am among the state’s leading subject matter experts. I have deep connections within the state and local governments and within Michigan’s unions and am passionate about helping talented Fordies better understand how they can do groundbreaking work in Michigan.
Kyle O’Meara, BA ‘15
Okemos, MI
Senior Associate, Attorney
Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC
I’m Kyle A. O’Meara, a proud 2015 graduate of the Ford School’s BA program!
I am an attorney in Okemos, MI and a graduate of Notre Dame Law School. I would be honored to serve on the Alumni Board to help offer a Michigan-centric policy perspective to the Board, alumni, and students.
I practice municipal, water resources, and administrative law at a law firm in Michigan with approximately 40 attorneys. I have been named to Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” since 2023 and Best Lawyers “Ones to Watch” since 2025. I am also Past Chairperson of the Administrative & Regulatory Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan.
My expertise is local government policy particularly land use and water resources issues. Working with local units of government throughout the state to help effectuate policy goals for diverse populations—has provided me practical skills to build consensus and solve complex political problems. It is my hope that I can use the skills and knowledge I have acquired to help listen and serve the Ford community.
Laurel Ruza, BA ‘15
New York, NY
Associate, Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP
I have built a career at the intersection of law, politics, and human rights. Earlier, I worked on national presidential and congressional campaigns, learning the mechanics of policy-making, messaging, and coalition-building. As an attorney, I now litigate complex matters and devote pro bono hours to international human rights causes.
That blend of experience allows me to contribute to the Alumni Board in meaningful ways. I can mentor students and alumni pursuing careers in government, public interest, or legal practice. My skills in strategic communication, network building, fundraising, and cross-sector collaboration would strengthen the Board’s committees—especially Student Engagement, Alumni Visibility, and Fundraising. I also bring experience with pro bono initiatives and nonprofit governance that can help deepen community partnerships.
I want to serve because the Ford School shaped who I am intellectually, socially, and professionally. I’m eager to give back as a double Wolverine by supporting career services, broadening recruiting pipelines, and deepening alumni engagement so future generations thrive.
David Tannenbaum, BA ‘16
Alexandria, VA
U.S. Attorney’s Office - Eastern District of Virginia
I am currently an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. In my current role, I prosecute civil fraud committed against the U.S. government and civil rights violations against citizens of the Eastern District. Prior to this position, I was an Associate at a law firm in D.C. where my practice focused on litigation and international cross border investigations. I began my career in D.C. focusing on foreign and domestic policy issues from an advocacy perspective. My varied career has contributed to my perspective on the Board by providing insight into both the public and private sectors and legal and policy fields. I want to continue to serve on the Board because I appreciate the opportunity it provides to give back to my Ford School community.