About Us
Staff
Our team is committed to building a Michigan where everyone has access to the humanities and where the humanities are inclusive to all Michiganders.
![Katie Wittenauer](https://www.michiganhumanities.org/wp-content/uploads/DSCF2419-3.jpeg)
Katie Wittenauer
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS
Katie creates and facilitates public humanities programming across Michigan, furthering Michigan Humanities’ reach and impact.
![James Nelson](https://www.michiganhumanities.org/wp-content/uploads/James-Nelson-final-scaled.jpg)
James Nelson
Director of Grants
James helps to connect organizations across Michigan with funding for public humanities programs such as exhibitions, presentations, workshops, and reading/discussion programs.
![Estee Schlenner](https://www.michiganhumanities.org/wp-content/uploads/Estee-Schlenner_01-scaled.jpg)
Estee Schlenner
communications Officer
Estee advances various programming initiatives, working to connect Michiganders from diverse backgrounds in exciting new ways.
![Jennifer Sierra](https://www.michiganhumanities.org/wp-content/uploads/Jennifer-Sierra_01-scaled.jpg)
Jennifer Sierra
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION COORDINATOR
Jennifer supports research and evaluation of all grants and programs, and plays a critical role in ensuring initiatives are inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible.
![Jennifer Brown](https://www.michiganhumanities.org/wp-content/uploads/Jennifer-Brown-Seagraves_01-scaled.jpg)
Jennifer Brown
OPERATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT OFFICER
Jennifer serves as office manager, assisting the team with vendor relationships, scheduling meetings and event logistics, and supports donor and partner stewardship.
![Michelle Chrome](https://www.michiganhumanities.org/wp-content/uploads/Michelle-Chrome_01-scaled.jpg)
Michelle Chrome
Chief Financial Officer
Michelle is responsible for the accurate stewardship of the funds used for programming and grant programs.
![Jennifer Rupp](https://www.michiganhumanities.org/wp-content/uploads/JJ-Rupp_01-scaled.jpg)
Jennifer Rupp
President & CEO
A longtime arts and culture nonprofit leader, Jen is passionate about creating opportunities through the public humanities that inspire Michiganders to connect and get involved in their communities.