Staff: Olivia Courant, Communications Intern
Olivia Courant joined CEDAM as Communications Intern in September 2009. She manages CEDAM’s Facebook, main Twitter and YouTube accounts. Olivia helps create the monthly CEDAM member funding alert, manages the statewide media list and is the Video Editing Manager/Fun in 5 host for CEDAM's TV show The Bright Side.
- Olivia’s experience with online communications comes from her involvement with Michigan’s Cyber Safety Initiative, a program designed to teach children and parents about safe internet use. She graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in International Relations from James Madison College.
Q&A with Olivia:
What drives your passion for neighborhood / community and economic development?
Over the past few years I have had the chance to work with programs that make a positive difference in Michigan, and I believe that helping communities and families achieve a higher standard of living is a wonderful way to do this.
Why do you love Michigan?
No matter where I go in life, I imagine I will probably end up back in Michigan. Maybe it is the weather.
How do your family and/or community inspire your work?
My parents are both involved with my home community and this has driven me to be outspoken on a broader level within the state. I also like to think that my brother sees me as a role model, so I try to set a good example.
What do you do in your free time (if it exists!)?
I am a musician gone artist. I played the saxophone and piano in high school, but these are too big to lug around, so instead I publish a weekly comic strip online.
Updated July 1, 2011