Building A Brighter Future
The Bridgman Foundation for Educational Excellence is dedicated to enhancing opportunities for students and staff across Bridgman Public Schools. While our roots are in funding enrichment projects like the STEM Lab, today our mission extends further: providing strategic support for district-wide needs that strengthen student learning and well-being. Guided by our board and in partnership with district leadership, we focus on high-impact initiatives that ensure Bridgman students continue to thrive-even in the face of financial challenges.
Mission Statement
To provide enrichment opportunities to the students and staff of Bridgman Public Schools for the betterment of the community.
Meet Our Board
Our Board of Trustees are comprised of involved citizens within and around the community who volunteer their time on behalf of the students within the Bridgman Public School District with a purpose of enhancing and enriching their learning opportunities. If you have a passion for education and are willing to help in any capacity, please contact us, or fill out the form on our Volunteer Page.
George Lepeniotis
Chair
Executive Committee
Tara Heiser
Secretary
Co-Chair of Public Relations
Executive Committee
Joy Langfeldt
Treasurer
Executive Committee
Kim Fenech
Vice Chair of Fund Development
Executive Committee
Allan Barker
Vice Chair of Projects
Executive Committee
Karen Heath
Co-Chair Public Relations
Executive Committee
Shane Peters
Superintendent
Wayne Hall
Board Liaison
JoAnn DeMeulenaere
Board Liaison
Deb Mensinger
Trustee
Chris Zilke
Trustee
Annual Report
2025 State of Michigan Annual Report
Notice of Approval from the Michigan Office of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Our tax-exempt number is 800915469.
Supporting the Foundation
There are numerous ways to join our mission. Whether through financial contributions, corporate partnerships, or volunteering your time and expertise, every form of support helps us create better educational opportunities for our community.
Donation Options
We’ve made it simple to contribute to our cause. As a 501(c)(3) organization, all donations are tax-deductible. Consider our monthly giving program, where supporters can make recurring contributions that help us plan for long-term initiatives.
Community Impact and Future Vision
The impact of our work ripples through generations. When we invest in educational excellence today, we’re building a stronger community for tomorrow. Students who benefited from our programs return as successful professionals, eager to give back to the system that supported their growth. Just walk through the halls of any one of Bridgman’s Public Schools and you’ll see the tangible results of our foundation’s work. From enhanced learning spaces to innovative educational programs, we’re creating lasting change that extends beyond the classroom and into the entire community.