Marla Schneider, President and CEO of Cornerstone Alliance, started her job at Cornerstone in January of 2025. Cornerstone Alliance is the longest-running economic development program in the state of Michigan (30 years). They have a large staff with impressive certifications and education.
Cornerstone is the recognized Economic Development Organization (EDO) for Berrien County. They are funded 90% privately and 10% publicly. The 4 main pillars of the 2026 plan are:
- Economic Development. Foster site readiness, business retention, expansion and attraction.
- Community Development. Strengthen community prosperity through redevelopment, strategic growth, and placemaking that attracts talent and investment.
- Housing Resource Development. Activate and advance housing development through coordinated leadership and strategic partnerships.
- Entrepreneurial Services. Strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem with high-quality programming and intentional business counseling across the Tri-County area.
Posted: March 12, 2026 by kiwanisjay
Cornerstone Alliance
Marla Schneider, President and CEO of Cornerstone Alliance, started her job at Cornerstone in January of 2025. Cornerstone Alliance is the longest-running economic development program in the state of Michigan (30 years). They have a large staff with impressive certifications and education.
Cornerstone is the recognized Economic Development Organization (EDO) for Berrien County. They are funded 90% privately and 10% publicly. The 4 main pillars of the 2026 plan are:
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Kiwanis Club of St. Joseph Benton Harbor
What is Kiwanis? We are an eclectic mix of ages, genders, occupations, backgrounds, and interests. We are all passionate about making our community and the world a better place for children so they can thrive.
So proud of these outstanding young leaders!This weekend, 360 Michigan high school members from 32 schools gathered to celebrate a year of service, leadership, and impact through Key Club. Students participated in breakout sessions focused on leadership skills, club organization, hands-on service projects, and fundraising techniques.
Of the clubs sponsored by the St. Joseph/Benton Harbor Kiwanis Club, both St. Joseph and Lakeshore were proudly represented by 34 members, along with advisors Katie Woodard (LHS) and Lauri Berry (SJHS). We are so grateful for the ongoing support, direction, and enthusiasm of our Kiwanis partners — and our members truly appreciated seeing the Good Luck ads scrolling across the conference screens!
Student Key Club State Elected Positions – We Are So Proud!
* Sukainah Saleem (St. Joseph freshman)* – Elected 2026–27 Lieutenant Governor for Division 8
* Aminah Garcia (St. Joseph junior)* – Elected 2026–27 Michigan District Bulletin Editor
* Riya Veershetty (St. Joseph junior)* – Endorsed to run for International Trustee at ICON
We also want to recognize these outstanding student leaders for their year of district-level service:
* Samaira Suri (Lakeshore junior) – Division 8 Lieutenant Governor
* Joe Berry (St. Joseph senior) – District Treasurer
* Juhi Bhatt (St. Joseph senior) – District Secretary
Thank you for representing our schools with excellence!
Student Key Club Conference Awards:
1st Place – Partners in Service Award
• $200 raised through our UNICEF Trick-or-Treat campaign
• $400 raised for The Thirst Project through our Culver’s Give Back Night and bracelet sales
Outstanding Executive Board Member Award – Juhi Bhatt
3rd Place – Traditional Scrapbook
Early Bird Dues Award – Thanks to Riya Veershetty
2nd Place – Kiwanis Family Relations Award
We could not be more proud of the leadership, service, and heart our students demonstrate every single day. The future is bright! Go Bears! ... See MoreSee Less
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This week we heard from club member and Assistant Superintendent of SJ Schools Amy Dirlam. She shared how professional development of teachers is a critical part of SJ Schools strategic plan.
On this Valentine’s Day, we want to give heartfelt thanks 💗 to Amy and all of the area administrators, teachers and support staff who put in thousands of hours of work and study, year-round, to help our kids get an outstanding education. 📚🎭🔬💻🎼🧮 ... See MoreSee Less
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Our club was happy to hear from Aravind Ale, Co-owner and Chef for @intaliarestaurant opening in March! He made our mouths water describing the flavorful fusion foods from India and Italy that he will prepare. Aravind also shared his big heart for helping children and the community. Be sure to check out Intalia on Glenlord Rd in Stevensville! ... See MoreSee Less
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