The Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts (RRCA) is pleased to announce the addition of five exceptional new members to its Board of Directors; Tammi Atkinson, Katie Biehl, Shayne Machen, Lani Rozga, and Aimee Zakrasjek. Each brings a unique blend of professional experience, artistic passion, and community commitment that will strengthen the RRCA’s mission.
“We are thrilled to welcome these talented individuals to our board” said Board President, Steve Growcock. “Their diverse backgrounds, community involvement and dedication to the arts will be an incredible asset to the Ramsdell and to our greater region.”
These five new board members join established board members Steve Growcock, Gini Pelton, Bill Connor, Nancy Ferguson and Sherri Protasiewicz.
Tammi Atkinson – Originally from Iowa, Tammi spent much of her life traveling before settling in Manistee in 2023. A former Peace Corps volunteer in Belize, she holds a Master of Social Work from Colorado State University and has worked in education, disaster relief, and language training. Tammy is active in the community through the Vogue Theatre and the Leagues of Women Voters. She brings broad life experience, artistic insight, and a collaborative spirit to the Ramsdell Board.
Katie Biehl – A Chicago native and longtime performer, Katie represents West Shore Community College on the Ramsdell Board. She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre and has performed in productions across West Michigan. An active member of the local performing arts community, Katie brings practical theater experience, creative passion, and a commitment to fostering the arts in Manistee and Mason counties.
Shayne Machen – Shayne Machen was elected to the Manistee County Board of Commissioners in November of 2024. She is currently serving a four-year term. Shayne is also a lawyer and owner of Machen Law, PLLC. Machen Law focuses on family law, municipal law, non-profit law, and more. Shayne has a B.A. in Economics and holds a Juris Doctor degree from Syracuse University College of Law.
Lani Rozga – Born and raised in Manistee, Lani built a distinguished career in education and public service. She helped establish the Manistee County School Business Cooperative and later served as Executive Director of Business Services for the Woodhaven-Brownstone School District. With master’s degrees in accounting and educational administration, she now serves on the City Council and Sands and Park Control Board. Lani brings leadership, fiscal expertise, and a deep love for the Manistee community to the RRCA.
Aimee Zakrasjek – A Manistee resident since 1997, Amy co-owns Z’s Cart Rental, helping visitors explore and enjoy the city. Passionate about community engagement and the arts, Amy values the Ramsdell’s role as a creative hub and is eager to support its mission to inspire and connect through performance and art. She and her husband Randy enjoy raising their family and traveling together.
More about the Ramsdell Board of Directors.