As we reflect on the past year, the Junior League of the Great Lakes Bay Region has so much to celebrate. We lifted ourselves, each other, our League, and our passions – all with the goal of lifting up our community. What an incredible year it has been!

None of this would have been possible without the leadership of an extraordinary woman, Kristen Squires. Her passion for the League, dedication to our members, and commitment to the community have been inspiring. Thank you, Kristen, for leading with heart, vision, and strength. You will be a tough act to follow, but I am honored to have been able to have work and learn from her, and I think I can say that we are all deeply grateful for the legacy she’s left

As we transition into a new chapter, we take a moment to celebrate not only where we’ve been but where we’re going. Our theme for the year ahead is rooted in adventure, courage, and the belief that together – we can fly.

Before we dive into what’s next, let me share a little bit about myself.

For those of you who don’t know me well, here’s one thing to understand: I love a good adventure!  I’ll try just about anything once.  If there’s a good time to be had, something new to learn, or a challenge to conquer- sign me up!  That mindset of growth and fearless curiosity is what motivated me to lead our League this year.

For my 29th birthday, I went on a hot air balloon ride. It was peaceful and breathtaking – the kind of adventure that lets you see the world from a new perspective. From high above, you can see beauty in every direction, but you can’t control where you go. The wind carries you where it will, and you simply enjoy the journey.

That experience reminds me so much of this past year. Together, we created a positive, uplifting environment, welcomed new members, and enjoyed the view as we laid the groundwork for our next chapter – our new strategic plan.

So, what’s next?

Shortly after that hot air balloon adventure, I went skydiving – another one of my “before I turn 30” goals. Unlike the calm of the balloon, skydiving was pure adrenaline. My stomach was in knots as I tried to remember every safety instruction. Then suddenly, I was at the edge of the plane, the door opened, and we jumped.

At first, it was chaos – wind rushing, ground spinning, everything a blur. And then I heard my instructor say, “Grab the gauge and watch your elevation.” In that moment, everything clicked. I pulled the parachute, and suddenly everything changed. The world opened up. I could see for miles. I could steer. I was flying.

When you think of someone who can fly, you might picture a superhero – Batman, Superman – someone who soars in to save the day. This year, that’s who we get to be.

As a League, we’re taking a leap. It may feel uncertain at times, but we have each other, our committees, our mentors, our plans, reminding us to “watch our elevation.” By trusting the process and following our vision, we’ll discover where our passions can make the greatest impact. Together, we will lift our community higher.

There’s a sign that hangs in my daughter’s room that reads:
“She believed she could, so she did.”

It’s a message I hope every young girl carries with her — and one that I hope inspires all of us.

So today, I ask you to believe — believe that together, we can fly.

Tina Swanton

President 2025-2026