Susan Hartman, Courtland Township (Kent Co.) clerk, 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. Hartman was presented with the award before nearly 1,000 of her township peers on April 22 during an awards ceremony at the banquet held during MTA’s Annual Educational Conference & Expo in Acme Township (Grand Traverse Co.).
“The ‘Spirit of MTA’ award recognizes those elected leaders who have inspired others, and who are leading their townships into the future,” said 2026 MTA President Kevin Beeson, supervisor of Pine River Township (Gratiot Co.). “On behalf of MTA and our Board of Directors, we congratulate Sue Hartman for receiving this honor and thank her for her efforts in her own community and region, and thank all local officials for their service to Michigan’s townships.”
Following a statewide call for nominations, Hartman—who received three separate nominations from her peers—was selected by a panel of her fellow township officials, who also serve 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 2026 MTA Conference theme of “Pathway to the Future,” representing both the individual and collective impact of Michigan’s townships.
Hartman credited her township team with ensuring the township’s excellence in service to residents and the community, including her deputy clerk Nyha Merritt and fellow township board members. She also shared the importance of outreach to get individuals involved in their community. “I reach out to members of our community to ask for help,” said Hartman, who has been clerk since 2019. “It helps our community and helps get everyone more involved. By getting involved in township government, you can make a big difference.”
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.
####
The Michigan Townships Association advances local democracy by fostering township leadership and public policy essential for a strong and vibrant Michigan.