Author

Carly Lillard

Carly Lillard has called Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region home since 2007. She works in fund development and communications and enjoys helping organizations share their stories and connect with the community. Carly earned a bachelor’s degree in Business from Northwood University and a master’s in Strategic Communication from Michigan State University. Outside of writing, she loves spending time with her husband, Jesse, and their two children, Maycie and Elias. You can reach her at carlylillard@gmail.com.

Carly Lillard's Latest Articles

SVSU Police welcome students back for a new year

By Carly Lillard

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Community Health & Wellness

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August 27, 2026

SVSU Campus Police is welcoming students back by building relationships early, offering safety education, and reminding students that officers are there as a resource when they need help.

Beyond the uniform: How Midland Youth connect with First Responders

By Carly Lillard

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Teach Me Tuesdays: Building confidence through real world learning

By Carly Lillard

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Education

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May 12, 2026

Mrs. Render is helping students gain independence and dignity through hands-on life skills and meaningful connections.

From classroom to call ready, the Saginaw Fire Department prepares students for the future

By Carly Lillard

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Community Development

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May 4, 2026

A unique high school fire academy prepares students to enter the workforce with certifications, skills, and a strong sense of purpose.

Students find their rhythm on the river with Bay City Rowing Club

By Carly Lillard

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Health

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May 4, 2026

Along the Saginaw River, students at the Bay City Rowing Club are learning teamwork, trust and confidence through rowing. What began as an adult club expanded in 2018 to include youth, welcoming beginners and guiding them from rowing machines to the water. For rowers like Addison Butcher, it offers a calming outlet and a strong sense of connection.

Small Town, Big Heart: Freeland Fabricators build more than robots

By Carly Lillard

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Education

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April 9, 2026

In the “Bot Cave,” the Freeland Fabricators are building more than a robot. They are building confidence, leadership, friendships and a sense of purpose. While the team has earned international recognition in FIRST Robotics, students say the real impact goes far beyond competition, shaping who they are and how they show up for their community.

A new view from the saddle: Midland Police introduce mounted patrol

By Carly Lillard

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Regional collaboration leads the way in building the future workforce

By Carly Lillard

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Community Development

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March 5, 2026

The partnership between the Midland County Educational Service Agency and the Mid-Michigan Manufacturers Association highlights what happens when schools and industry move in step.