Meet Our October Specialist of the Month: LeAnne Bush

This month, we're proud to recognize LeAnne Bush, a dedicated Jobs for Michigan's Graduates (JMG) Specialist from Networks Northwest who has spent nearly a decade helping young people discover their strengths, overcome barriers, and find their path toward career success. Before joining JMG, LeAnne spent nearly 20 years working in media sales before becoming an Employment Specialist with Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS). At the time she became a JMG specialist, she was also serving as the Work-Based Learning Coordinator for the Wexford Missaukee Intermediate School District Career Tech Center. With her experience connecting young people to career opportunities, becoming a JMG specialist felt like a natural fit.

Now in her 10th year as a JMG specialist, LeAnne continues to be motivated by watching young people discover where they belong. "What motivates me the most is watching the students find their niche and become successful in their career path," she shared. For LeAnne, success looks different for every student, and being able to support them as they discover their interests and take steps toward their goals is one of the most rewarding parts of her role.

One of LeAnne's favorite memories as a specialist came during the 2024 Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) National Student Leadership Academy (NSLA). She had the opportunity to watch JMG youth from Networks Northwest build strong connections with one another, get involved with the Youth Advisory Council (YAC), and step into leadership roles. What stood out most to LeAnne was seeing the students work together independently without much direction from the adults around them. "What a great memory to watch them grow into being independent and good leaders," she recalled. For her, it was a powerful example of the confidence and leadership skills young people can develop when they are given opportunities to take ownership.

LeAnne believes today's youth are navigating a number of challenges, including social anxiety, communication barriers, and a lack of support at home. She sees JMG as an important source of guidance and encouragement for young people who may not always have those supports elsewhere. Through the program, specialists can help youth work through barriers, build their confidence and communication skills, and connect with the people and opportunities they need to move forward.

One of the greatest joys of LeAnne's role is the lasting relationships she builds with students. Some former students continue to reach out years after graduating when they need advice, while others will recognize her around the community and stop to say hello. Those moments are a reminder that the relationships specialists build with young people can have an impact long after their time in JMG has ended.

LeAnne believes JMG is especially important because young people today face so many challenges and barriers as they prepare for adulthood. "Today's youth face so many challenges, barriers, and a lack of support that JMG can assist with to help them become successful," she said. By providing consistent support, guidance, and encouragement, JMG specialists help young people navigate those challenges while preparing them for life after high school.

Outside of JMG, LeAnne enjoys traveling, going to concerts, spending time with friends, reading, and watching sports—especially football. She is the proud mom of two adult children and has a full house with two dogs and two cats. And if you need a travel buddy, LeAnne may be the person to call: she has already visited 42 states and has set her sights on visiting all 50!

Congratulations, LeAnne Bush, on being named our October Specialist of the Month! Thank you for nearly 10 years of dedication to JMG youth and for the relationships, encouragement, and opportunities you provide to young people as they find their path forward. Your commitment to helping youth discover their strengths and become confident, independent leaders makes a lasting difference.

Nominations are open to ALL, including our employer partners! If you know a phenomenal specialist, we encourage you to nominate them here for our November Specialist of the Month.