Mayor Pro Tem Kerry Ebersole Singh

I’ve called East Lansing home since I moved here in 1995 from my hometown of Trenton in downriver Detroit to attend Michigan State University and graduate from James Madison College. I’ve lived in East Lansing longer than anywhere I’ve ever been, and this beloved community along the banks of the Red Cedar River is where my husband and I have chosen to raise our family with no intention of ever leaving.

I ran to serve on the East Lansing City Council as the mom of an incredible six-year-old at Robert L. Green Elementary School, a wife to a public servant, the daughter of public-school teachers and someone who has worked throughout my professional career to make a positive impact on our state and community. 

As the Chief Talent Solutions & Engagement Office for the Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC), I lead the agency’s strategic focus of developing high-wage skills growth by working with businesses, higher education institutions and communities to better attract, retain and cultivate the talent critical to growing the state’s economy.

Prior to serving at MEDC, I served as Director of the Office of Sixty by 30 in the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), where I established the office. During my time as director, I launched two instrumental programs: Futures for Frontliners and MI Reconnect, which aim to create a more talented workforce by providing a tuition-free path for Michiganders pursuing in-demand certificates or associate degrees.

In this capacity, I also served as the Chair of the MI STEM Council, designed to improve and promote innovation and collaboration in STEM education and prepare students for careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. I also served as the lead staff supporting the state’s Workforce Development Board, helping to create a comprehensive, accessible and successful workforce development system. In conjunction with my time at LEO, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2021 tapped me to lead the Protect Michigan Commission’s community engagement strategy, which aimed to educate residents on the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines.
 
 Before I returned to state government by leading the national award-winning “Be Counted 2020 Census” campaign on behalf of Gov. Whitmer, I operated an independent consulting firm that served a variety of clients across business, nonprofit and philanthropic sectors. I have experience creating and developing strategy for a variety of national, state and local government programs and advocacy campaigns, as well as nonprofit social organizations and causes.

I will be a strong advocate for an East Lansing that embraces innovation, leads the way both in policy and action, promotes fiscal stewardship and supports efforts to knit a community that is representative of all walks of life, including being a champion of businesses and amenities that we who live here know are beyond compare.

My unique set of experiences and accomplishments has well-prepared me to build bridges and work collaboratively with MSU, the East Lansing school system and the city. I am committed to driving regional collaboration, spurring smart economic development including retaining talent and strengthening our arts, culture and public spaces. 

Our family, including our beloved dogs, live in the Harrison Meadows neighborhood, where I have served as the association's treasurer. Grateful to be elected for City Council and Mayor Pro Tem in 2023.