Carrie (Elaine) Tingle, Vice President of Human Resources and Community Affairs at Bridgewater Interiors, brings over 25 years of professional experience and a commitment to excellence in all her endeavors. Her role at Bridgewater Interiors involves managing employee and labor relations, community engagement, training, and development, all of which underscore her ability to lead with grace and precision.
Elaine’s dedication to community service shines through her integral involvement with the PEACE Initiative. As a member of the Board of Directors for PEACE, she has been instrumental in advancing our mission to build a community center for the West Willow neighborhood of Ypsilanti Charter Township. Her high standards and meticulous attention to detail have set the bar for excellence within our organization.
This year, Elaine is overseeing the coordination of our annual banquet, steering the ship with her characteristic elegance and grounded leadership. While others manage many of the intensive tasks, Elaine’s guiding hand ensures that every aspect of the event aligns with our vision of uniting dreams, moving forward, and developing futures.
We are grateful for Elaine’s continued dedication and leadership, and we are confident that her oversight will make this year’s banquet a resounding success.
Dr. Alena Zachery-Ross serves as Superintendent of Ypsilanti Community Schools and has previously led both Okemos Public Schools and Muskegon Heights Public Schools. Throughout her career as an educator, school psychologist, and district leader, she has been recognized for advancing student achievement, developing leaders, and strengthening school communities. Dr. Zachery-Ross holds degrees from Grand Valley State University, Wayne State University, and Michigan State University, where she earned her doctorate in Educational Leadership. She is also a Certified John Maxwell Coach, a member of the Forbes Business Council, and a sought-after speaker, coach, and consultant on leadership and organizational transformation.
Reverend Rodrick K. Green has been a dedicated servant of southeastern Michigan for over 35 years. While his professional expertise in criminal, probate, and family law is widely recognized, it is his unwavering commitment to community service that truly defines his legacy.
As the Pastor of New Hope Baptist Church in Ann Arbor, MI, Attorney Green’s leadership extends far beyond the pulpit. His longstanding service as a Trustee for Superior Township and his previous role as a Road Commissioner for Washtenaw County reflect his deep-seated dedication to improving the lives of local residents. His past chairmanship of the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) further highlights his commitment to regional development and governance.
In addition to his numerous roles, Pastor Green serves as the President of the Minister’s Alliance of Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor, and Vicinity. Through this position, he fosters collaboration and support among local pastors, enhancing the spiritual and social fabric of the community.
Attorney Green’s heart for service aligns perfectly with the mission of the PEACE Initiative. His return as Master of Ceremony for our 2024 banquet is a testament to his enduring dedication to building a brighter future for the West Willow neighborhood of Ypsilanti Charter Township. We are delighted to welcome him back as we unite dreams, move forward, and develop futures together.
Michael Taylor is a gifted multi-instrumentalist and seasoned Musical Director whose sound is as diverse as his story. Born and raised in Detroit, he is deeply rooted in the rich gospel tradition of the Church of God in Christ. Over the years, Michael has earned a reputation as both a powerhouse keyboardist and a dynamic bassist, performing across genres from gospel and R&B to jazz and contemporary music. He has shared the stage with artists such as Big Sean, the NFL Draft Band (2024), and toured Europe with the Golden Gospel Singers.
Currently, he serves as Musical Director at a Church in Ann Arbor MI and is a longtime member of the highly acclaimed event band Collision Six. Whether leading from the keys, holding down the groove on bass, or directing full ensembles, Michael’s passion remains the same: using music to inspire, uplift, and bring people together.
Angela Davis, a Detroit Native, is one of Detroit’s most accomplished singers. She is also a proud Special Education Teacher currently serving the Wayne Westland Community Schools District.
She is the 2015 WDIV/Channel 4 Super Singer winner. Since winning this competition, she has had the opportunity to share stages with various national acts including The Temptations, Beach Boys, Alexander O’Neal, Gerald Albright, Norman Brown, Johnny Gill, Regina Bell, Angie Stone, Keith Washington, Tyrese, and many more! She has been the featured singer at prestigious events including The Detroit Music Awards, The Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame, The Special Olympics, The New Year’s Eve D-Drop, The Ford Fireworks, and America’s Thanksgiving Parade.
Angela had the distinct honor of performing in the 2018 All Star Tribute to Aretha Franklin at the recently renamed Aretha Franklin Amphitheater (formerly known as Chene Park). She is also a passionate songwriter and has written multiple songs on all four of her projects.
Her most recent releases include a live EP titled “Angela Davis Live: Up Close & Personal” and a new remastered single with the new R&B group S.O.U.L (Shades of United Ladies) of whom she is a proud member, titled “BlAck Queen”. Both were released in 2020 and are available on all digital streaming platforms now!
In January 2022, she released a Children’s book with her mother, Gloria Davis, titled “Angela’s Awesome Adventure: New York City”. The book is the first of the series where the main character, Angela, travels to different major U.S. cities and experiences history, culture, food, and music.
In February 2022, Angela was also proud of performing the National Anthem at all 3 Detroit Pistons home games as well as the first Detroit Lions game of the season.
Later in September 2022, Angela released 2 songs (“Survivor” and “New Reality”) in collaboration with recording artist Alesia Miller. They were both sponsored by The Motor City Gents. Proceeds supported organizations with Black-Detroit entrepreneurs during the Covid-19 Global Pandemic.
Angela returned to her R&B/Smooth Jazz and collaborative roots in early 2023. She released a joint project, Alexander Goss Presents Angela Davis Volume 1. It includes tracks like “Breezze” and “We Can Getaway”. This project was produced by successful Detroit musician and producer Alexander Goss.
4800 E. HURON RIVER DR., ANN ARBOR, MI 48105
5-6 pm
6-8 pm
Please donate to help lift the quality of life for children, families, and seniors. Thank you!
To become a donor, click the button above to send us a message to peace.2345@yahoo.com.
A 20% discount is available for the first 50 ticket purchases! Use promotional code PEACEBuilder2025
The P.E.A.C.E. Community Champion Award recognizes outstanding individuals whose long-term service has strengthened the Ypsilanti community and improved the lives of children, families, and seniors. This year’s Community Champion will be honored at the 2026 P.E.A.C.E. Annual Banquet on October 15, 2026. If you know someone who has made a lasting impact through leadership, volunteerism, or service, we encourage you to submit a nomination. Nominations from businesses, nonprofits, community agencies, and religious organizations are welcome and must be received by September 11, 2026.