Ed Masters, Spaulding Township (Saginaw Co.) supervisor, has been honored by the Michigan Townships Association (MTA) with a “Spirit of MTA” award. The award was created to highlight and recognize the exemplary efforts of local leaders in serving and advancing their township—as the Association has done for more than 70 years. Masters was presented with the award before nearly 1,000 of his township peers on April 2 during an awards ceremony at the banquet held during MTA’s Annual Educational Conference & Expo in Grand Rapids.
“I am humbled and very proud to receive this award,” said Masters, who has served as supervisor since 2016. “When I became supervisor, I surrounded myself with great people and a great township team. We are public servants—we love our community. It’s people helping people. And if we keep that in mind, we will continue to grow and be a success in Michigan.”
Following a statewide call for nominations, Masters was selected by a panel of his fellow township officials, who also served on the MTA Board of Directors, following evaluation and consideration of dozens of nominated elected officials—each of whom represented dedication and above-and-beyond efforts on behalf of their community. Nominations were asked to convey how the official’s leadership style aligns with the 2025 MTA Conference theme of “Unique and United,” representing both the individuality and collective strength of Michigan’s townships. Masters received nominations from three separate individuals in his community—a recognition of the respect he has earned from those with whom he serves.
“Ed prioritizes helping his residents in any way that he can, working to unify his community and bringing residents together, in celebration and in community,” said 2024 MTA President Connie Cargill, who presented the ‘Spirit of MTA’ award to Masters. “He exhibits a unique form of leadership, and has a firm belief that in working together, we all become stronger and better able to improve the lives of our residents and community.”
MTA represents more than 99% of Michigan’s 1,240 townships and is the largest municipal association in the state. Its members include more than 6,500 elected township officials, and tens of thousands more appointed officials, personnel and volunteers.
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The Michigan Townships Association advances local democracy by fostering township leadership and public policy essential for a strong and vibrant Michigan.
Photos by David Trumpie, Trumpie Photography