Two local workforce development leaders were awarded Michigan Works! ‘Shining Star’ awards by the Michigan Works! Association for going above and beyond to help job seekers and employers in Southwest Michigan.
The Shining Star awards celebrate Michigan Works! frontline staff who, through dedication and outstanding contributions to workforce development, personify the Michigan Works! Mission. This year’s local honorees include:
Allegra Hulsey, Manager of Workforce Operations at Michigan Works! Berrien Cass Van Buren, is known for consistently delivering the highest quality of customer service in the agency’s service centers. She is dedicated to continuous improvement and goes above and beyond in every aspect of her role—anticipating needs, solving problems proactively, and supporting her team with enthusiasm and care.
“Allegra’s dedication is unmatched. She consistently puts her community and team first, leading with empathy, integrity, and a deep commitment to making a lasting impact. She’s not just an outstanding team member; she’s the kind of leader who lifts everyone around her,” said Jennifer Deamud, Executive Vice President of Workforce at Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren.
Kathy Olsen, Quality Assurance Coordinator and Workforce Development Board Liaison with Michigan Works! Southwest, brings wisdom, patience, and purpose to her work. She demonstrates her commitment to the Michigan Works! mission through thoughtful
conversations, tailored trainings, and quiet encouragement. By helping individuals uncover their strengths and strive toward their highest potential, Kathy has made a lasting impact on colleagues, community partners, and the regional workforce system.
“Kathy is the epitome of a Shining Star. She continually embodies the values of Michigan Works! Southwest and exemplifies what it means to transform lives through workforce development,” said Jakki Bungart-Bibb, Michigan Works! Southwest’s Executive Director. “With over 30 years of unwavering dedication and exceptional service to the Michigan Works! System, Kathy has made an immeasurable impact.”
“The Michigan Works! system is successful because of frontline staff like Allegra and Kathy,” said Michigan Works! Association CEO Ryan Hundt. “They are Shining Stars for going above and beyond to support Michigan job seekers and employers every single day. We are proud to honor them.”
The awards were presented at the association’s annual conference in Kalamazoo.
