CCF Leaders Take Seats on Statewide Advisory Commission

Stacy Bahri, Strategic Initiatives Manager

Tom Haji, Director of Special Projects

Two representatives from the Chaldean Community Foundation have been appointed to a key statewide advisory body focused on representation and policy engagement for Middle Eastern Americans in Michigan.

Stacy Bahri, Strategic Initiatives Manager, and Tom Haji, Director of Special Projects, have been appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to serve on the Michigan Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs.

The commission was established to advise the Governor and state agencies on issues affecting Middle Eastern American communities across Michigan. Its work includes identifying policy priorities, improving access to state services, strengthening civic engagement, and ensuring that the diverse voices of Middle Eastern Americans are represented in state government decision-making. The commission also serves as a bridge between community organizations, residents, and state leadership, helping to elevate concerns related to education, economic opportunity, public services, and cultural inclusion.

Both appointments reflect the growing role of Michigan’s Middle Eastern American communities in public policy and civic leadership, as well as continued efforts by the state to strengthen engagement with one of its most established and fastest-growing demographic groups.