Connecting Mission and Mentorship: Welcoming Our 2025–26 Board Fellows

by | Oct 24, 2025 | News & Advocacy

On October 3, members of Washtenaw ACA joined dozens of local nonprofits and University of Michigan graduate students at the Ross School of Business for the Golub Capital Nonprofit Board Fellows Orientation—a kickoff for this year’s fellowship program hosted by Business+Impact.

We’re thrilled to welcome Ellie Garnett and Xander Rodriguez, our 2025–26 Board Fellows, who will be bringing their skills and passion for social impact to advance ACA’s mission this year.

The event featured training, networking, and lively discussions led by NEW Center and Weiss Senior Fellows, helping students and nonprofit partners alike build the foundations for meaningful collaboration.

We’re excited for the year ahead and grateful to be part of a program that prepares the next generation of community-minded leaders (“and best!”) to make a difference through board service.

There was a full turnout for the event, hosted up in the Tauber Colloquium, at Ross.
There was a full turnout for the event, hosted up in the Tauber Colloquium, at Ross.
ACA-Ross Fellows Ellie Garnett and Xander Rodriguez
From Left: ACA President/CEO Kristen Columbus, Board Fellow Ellie Garnett, Board Fellow Xander Rodriguez, Board Chair Matt Hall
UM Ross Fellows 2025-26 hero
Pictured: All Golub Capital Nonprofit Board Fellows 2025-26

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