Meet Our Board of Directors!

Executive Committee

  • Board of Directors member

    Roger Van Tol - President/Board Chair

    As the founder of Understory Studio, Roger Van Tol designs spaces that integrate human experience with the environment. In addition to his role as Board Chair, Roger is a community advocate and educator who teaches architectural design at the University of Detroit Mercy.

  • A woman with long, curly blonde hair smiling and wearing a black top and a necklace with a circular pendant.

    Christina Heximer - Vice President

    As Co-Executive Director of the Detroit Collaborative Design Center, Christina Heximer brings over two decades of experience in community-driven design to her role as Vice President. A long-time Southwest Detroit resident and educator at the University of Detroit Mercy, she holds dual master’s degrees in Architecture and Social Work from the University of Michigan.

  • Kelly Sweeny Headshot

    Kelly Sweeny - Secretary

    As Secretary, Kelly Sweeny leverages her expertise as a Public Engagement and Communications Director to bridge the gap between policy and people. A graduate of UDM’s Master of Community Development program, she brings a deep commitment to environmental justice and a proven track record of building community trust across Detroit.

  • Andy Rosenblatt

    Andy Rosenblatt - Treasurer

    As Treasurer, Andy Rosenblatt brings over 30 years of cross-industry experience to the board, with a specialized focus on environmental standards and carbon impact. His career is marked by a commitment to sustainable innovation, including his work with the U.S. Department of Energy to develop solutions for reducing heavy-duty vehicle emissions.

2025–2026 Board Members

  • Board of Directors member

    Carrie Leach

    Dr. Carrie Leach is a health communication expert and Assistant Professor at Wayne State University, where she leads community engagement initiatives focused on health equity and environmental stressors. With over 15 years of experience, she is dedicated to connecting Detroiters with institutional resources to advocate for more just environments and community-driven health solutions.

  • Board of Directors member

    Don Q. Patterson

    Don-Q Patterson is a mission-driven executive and educator dedicated to youth empowerment and community engagement in Detroit. Currently a doctoral candidate in Organizational Leadership, he leverages his expertise in strategic initiatives and academic innovation to lead social impact programs and faith-based mentorship.

  • Ionel Birgean

    Ionel Birgean

    Ionel Birgean brings decades of experience in the energy industry to the board, specializing in risk management, portfolio optimization, and economic research. A graduate of the University of Michigan with degrees in Financial Engineering and Economics, he uses his expertise in navigating complex regulatory and social factors to strengthen the organization’s mission and regional impact.

  • Dawn Widman

    Dawn Widman

    A lifelong Southwest Detroit resident and former SDEV employee, Dawn Widman brings over 40 years of experience in law enforcement and city government to the board. Having previously served as Board President, she remains a passionate advocate for the collaboration between SDEV and the City of Detroit.

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    Ron Johnston

    As Manager of Business Energy Accounts at DTE Energy, Ronald Johnston oversees a significant commercial and industrial portfolio while fostering strategic municipal partnerships. A Certified Energy Manager with an MBA from Pace University, he is a dedicated mentor and community volunteer who brings a deep passion for sustainability and local engagement to the board.

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    Sergio Martinez

    A Southwest Detroit native, Sergio Martinez is a hospitality consultant and community leader dedicated to immigrant rights and Latino business equity. Now in his second term as a Governor-appointed representative for the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), he is a passionate advocate for housing rights and local development.

  • Portrait of a woman with dark curly hair, wearing gold hoop earrings, a black blazer, and a patterned white and black blouse, smiling at the camera.

    Theresa Landrum

    Theresa Landrum is a lifelong Detroiter and a prominent environmental justice activist representing Michigan’s most polluted zip code. An advisor to Governor Whitmer on environmental policy and PFAS response, she serves on numerous local and national boards dedicated to fighting climate pollution and securing community-driven protections.

  • Kelly Johnson

    Kelly Johnson ("KJ")

    Kelly Johnson brings a specialized background in urban policy and community development to the board, holding a Master’s from the University of Detroit Mercy. Having previously partnered with SDEV on research regarding natural pollution mitigation, she is dedicated to improving air and water quality across Southwest Detroit and currently serves as Executive Assistant at Rare Plant Fairy.