Our Team

Our Dedicated Staff

PRESIDENT & CEO

Susanna Patterson

Susanna G. Patterson joined Michigan CASA as the President and CEO in November 2025. Prior to entering this role, she served as Executive Director of Central Georgia CASA from 2013 to 2025. Under her leadership, Central Georgia CASA saw a 96% increase in CASA Volunteer and a 92% increase in children served in the program’s three county service area.

During her time with Central Georgia CASA, Susanna worked tirelessly for system change, frequently participating in statewide efforts promoting quality legal representation and better data-driven outcomes for children and families. As an advocate, Susanna ensured that state policy and practice experts understood and were aware of the direct experiences of families, the challenges faced in communities, and the opportunities for change and improvement. Her ability to effectively frame otherwise complex issues in a generalized and practical manner were sought-after and appreciated. Easily recognized by her articulate and passionate advocacy, she pushed CASAs, attorneys, and all stakeholders to come together in pursuit of better serving families.

Susanna holds a Bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Kentucky, and is a 2009 graduate of Mercer University’s School of Law in Macon, Georgia. Additionally, Susanna holds an LL.M. in Taxation from Georgetown University Law Center, as well as an LL.M. in Child and Family Law from Loyola Chicago University’s School of Law.

Susanna is the adoptive parent of 5 children and one extremely calm beagle.

DIRECTOR OF TRAINING

Janice Fonger

Janice Fonger has enjoyed a long and inspiring career in the nonprofit arena. She has been a front-line service provider; a coordinator of philanthropic activities; a relationship and community builder, a coach, facilitator, and trainer; a manager of organizational operations; an executive director; and a board member and leader. Janice’s first introduction to CASA came in the early 2000s as Executive Director at Adoptive Family Support Network. In 2017, Janice was sworn in as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) in Kent County. Janice was a fierce advocate and loyal and passionate voice on behalf of her first two cases, a teen, and an infant. These were more than just cases, as Janice remains in contact with both girls/families.

Janice and her husband Lindsay are blessed to have a beautiful daughter Celia and new son-in-law Nick

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Sarah Laman-Davis

Sarah Laman-Davis is a strong advocate for a more just and equitable community. Over the last decade, she has served in various marketing, communications, and development roles across the areas of environmental sustainability, workforce development, early childhood support, and public health technology.

Sarah completed a Master’s of Public Administration from Grand Valley State University in 2024. She is also the co-founder of a B-Corp certified coffee roastery called Last Mile Cafe. She and her husband have two children and enjoy traveling, hiking, and spending time with family.

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Jolie Sawran

As the Director of Operations at Michigan CASA, Jolie is motivated by her role, supporting state funding initiatives and helping expand the organization’s programs across Michigan. Jolie combines a creative and strategic approach with a strong administrative skill set spanning over eight years in addition to a decade of hospitality experience.

Jolie brings expertise from diverse sectors, including financial institutions, medical facilities, and mental health programs, with a specialized focus on applied behavior analysis. Jolie holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in Business Law from California State University, Northridge.

Outside of work, Jolie enjoys hiking, photography, crafting, and creative writing, constantly finding inspiration in nature and the arts. She resides in Grand Rapids with her husband, two kids and a golden retriever.

Our Board of Directors

Officers

THE ROLE OF MICHIGAN CASA'S OFFICERS

The Board Officers are responsible for the overall governance of the Michigan CASA organization. They provide leadership and support while setting policies, ensuring legal responsibilities including bylaws and financial oversight are strictly followed.