Mark Hackel accepts Leadership Macomb's Donald R. Torline Leadership Legacy Award

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Leadership Macomb awarded the second annual Donald R. Torline Leadership Legacy Award to Mark Hackel, Macomb County executive, at an appreciation breakfast Thursday, Aug. 21.

Hackel is a graduate of Leadership Macomb and has enthusiastically supported the program for 18 years. The award was named in honor of Baker College of Clinton Township President Donald R. Torline for his consistent support of Leadership Macomb and being an incredible role model for other community leaders. Torline was honored last year as the award’s first recipient.

“Mark is making substantial improvements to make our county a better place to live, work, play and do business,” said Karen Smith, executive director of Leadership Macomb. “He possesses the same generous heart, kind spirit and support of our program that makes Don Torline such an outstanding role model.”

Hackel, a Macomb County native, became the county’s first elected executive in 2011 following an election in which he finished first in every voting precinct. As executive of the third largest county in Michigan, he is committed to economic and community development, supports clean water, tourism, recreation and economic development of Lake St. Clair and the Clinton River, is an advocate for key regional issues and is devoted to providing innovative leadership for the region.

Prior to his present position, Hackel worked in law enforcement since 1981. He advanced through the ranks and was elected Macomb County sheriff in 2000.

“I continue to be honored by having this award named for me and commend the Macomb Leadership board of directors for Mark’s selection,” said Torline. “He has provided unconditional support to Leadership Macomb and has inspired many others to get involved in projects that have benefited and are continuing to benefit our community.”

The qualifications for individuals who receive the Donald R. Torline Leadership Legacy Award are:

· Demonstrates a generous heart and kind spirit

· Supports Leadership Macomb consistently for at least five years

· Represents Leadership Macomb and Macomb County in a positive, professional manner

· Has a positive impact on his/her organization and the county

· Is involved in Macomb County community service initiatives

Leadership Macomb is a not-for-profit organization that seeks to create a network of informed Macomb County community leaders; enable graduates of its annual nine-month program and others to engage in civic leadership; and strengthen organizational and community relationships. More than 640 individuals representing more than 120 organizations have participated in the program. For more information, visit www.LeadershipMacomb.org.

The largest private college in Michigan, Baker College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. It is a nonprofit higher education institution, serving more than 35,000 students on 12 campuses and in three satellite locations. Baker grants certificates and associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business, health sciences, education and human services, and various technical fields, as well as a doctorate of business administration. As a career college, the Baker College system is pleased to report that 97 percent of its available graduates are employed. For more information about Baker College, please check out our website at www.baker.edu.