38 CEO/Artistic Director Michigan Stage Driven to bring more performing arts programs to communities, Tim ParŽ launched the non-profit theater arts organization Ñ Michigan Stage. For hundreds of children and older adults, Michigan StageÕs Playlab program teaches acting and improvisation while encouraging teamwork and imagination. ParŽ also introduced the TalkinÕ Broadway and Young Professional Ensemble programs and the ÒLike an Expert'' workshop series, providing more opportunities for theater education. ParŽ is the former chair of the Ferndale Arts and Cultural Commission, where he co-founded the Nine on Nine music series and produced Broadway in the 'Burbs. He is also a frequent volunteer for FerndaleÕs various cultural events. As a professional creative, he has toured all over the country as a writer, director, choreographer and performer. In 2023, he was named Humanities Champion of the Year by the Michigan Humanities Council, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. The Southfield resident earned a bachelor's degree in theater from Michigan State University. The information presented here was accurate as of Jan. 1, 2024.