Women of the Greenway: 9 women are awarded with the “spirit of determination” award
Celebrate this Women’s History Month by joining the Joe Louis Greenway Partnership in recognizing the remarkable women embodying the 'Spirit of Determination'. These trailblazers are not only making waves in their communities but are also the driving force behind the scenes, serving as founders, community activists, board members, and champions of public spaces, all contributing to the realization of the Joe Louis Greenway. Among these inspiring individuals are:
Angela Lugo-Thomas
Angela Lugo-Thomas, the Garden Development Manager at Keep Growing Detroit, is our esteemed next honoree. Appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in 2023, Angela serves on the Belle Isle Park Advisory Committee. When not tending to green spaces, Angela cherishes moments with her family, leads walking groups, dances with the Rican Struction Bomba Drum and Dance group, and captures life's essence through her photography.
Alexis Wiley
Alexis Wiley, a member of the Joe Louis Greenway Partnership Board, expresses her determination to work diligently and advocate for her community. With twenty years of experience, Alexis demonstrates proficiency as a strategist and leader. She excels in developing and articulating compelling messages that address the community’s needs, rallying support, and driving meaningful change
Christina Peltier
Christina Peltier currently works as the Chief Greenways Planner for the City of Detroit. She led the Joe Louis Greenway Framework Plan, an award-winning planning study recognized by the American Planning Association (APA), American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), and Architizer.
Gabriela Santiago-Romero
We are thrilled to recognize Councilwoman Gabriela Santiago-Romero for her historic achievement as the first openly LGBTQ female council member in Detroit. She is a dedicated community activist and organizer with a wealth of experience in Detroit nonprofits, such as We The People Michigan, and local government. Her passion for her work is fueled by love and a commitment to improving the community.
Hanan Ali Yahya
Hanan Ali Yahya, a first-generation Yemeni-American, was raised mere steps away from the Warren Gateway, offering her a firsthand perspective on life in Detroit. From 2021 to 2023, she served as a Project Manager for the Joe Louis Greenway, bringing her unique insight and experience to the role.
Meagan Elliott
Dr. Meagan Elliott is the Deputy Chief Financial Officer for the City of Detroit where she is responsible for development and grants. Additionally, she is the founder and co-chair of the Joe Louis Greenway Partnership, the public lead for the $350 million Unified Greenway campaign to support Detroit’s riverfront and the Joe Louis Greenway in perpetuity, and serves as a mayoral appointee to the Belle Isle Park Advisory Committee.
Rushann Long
RuShann Long's desire to improve the quality of life for residents while bringing about positive change and revitalizing her community is a driving force in her life - that makes her worthy of such an honor.
Ryan Myers-Johnson
As the founder of Sidewalk Detroit, Ryan Myers-Johnson channels her enthusiasm toward advancing spatial equity in Detroit. She is committed to fostering transformative encounters for residents, artists, and stakeholders within public realms, focusing on green spaces and parks.
Victoria Griffin
Victoria Griffin, a Board Member of the Joe Louis Greenway Partnership, is deeply engaged in community efforts, advocating for affordable housing and enhancing community aesthetics. Representing District 3 on the Joe Louis Greenway Community Advisory Board, she actively works to guarantee that Detroit residents enjoy access to a thriving community and a sustainable environment.