🎓Topouzian and Geshel Receive Kevin A. Kelly Scholarships

MSAE is pleased to announce that Ara Topouzian of the Michigan Venture Capital Association and Dillon Geshel of the Michigan Library Association are recipients of the Kevin A. Kelly Scholarship. Both will attend MSAE’s 2026 Annual Conference with scholarship support.

The Kevin A. Kelly Scholarship helps association and nonprofit professionals take part in professional development by offsetting conference registration and materials costs. The program honors the value of investing in the people who strengthen their organizations and the association profession.

Meet the Recipients

Ara Topouzian is Executive Director of the Michigan Venture Capital Association (MVCA). He advocates for Michigan’s venture investment and entrepreneurial community, promotes investment opportunities, and guides MVCA’s membership, programs, and strategic direction. His career also includes leadership in economic development and association management, including service as President and CEO of the Troy Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Director for the City of Novi. Ara has also served as chair of MSAE.

MVCA is a nonprofit trade organization that brings together Michigan’s venture capital and angel investment community. The association works to expand capital and talent for innovative Michigan entrepreneurs and supports the state’s investment ecosystem through advocacy, research, education, and connections among investors and entrepreneurs.

Dillon Geshel is Executive Director of the Michigan Library Association (MLA). Before becoming MLA’s permanent executive director in 2026, he served as interim executive director and led the Superiorland Library Cooperative, working with its member libraries on resource sharing, professional development, and consulting. He has also contributed to MLA’s advocacy, strategic planning, intellectual freedom, and conference work.

Founded in 1891, MLA represents public, academic, school, tribal, and special libraries across Michigan. Its work advances Michigan libraries through advocacy, professional development, and engagement, supporting libraries and the communities they serve.

Join Them at MSAE 2026

Ara and Dillon will join colleagues from across the state at MSAE’s Annual Conference, December 2–4, 2026, at the Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids. This year’s theme, “On Tap for the Future · Crafting What’s Next,” brings association professionals together for practical education, peer connection, and fresh ideas for the work ahead.

Congratulations to Ara and Dillon! We look forward to welcoming them to MSAE 2026 and celebrating the continued growth of association professionals across Michigan.