Welcome to The Shining Light Awards
To nurture this sense of regional community, the Detroit Free Press and Metropolitan Affairs Coalition have partnered to create the Shining Light Regional Cooperation Awards, which honor individuals who are making important contributions to regional cooperation, progress, and understanding in Metropolitan Detroit.
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Congratulations to our 2025 Honorees!
We are proud to recognize these outstanding individuals for their commitment to regional cooperation and community building:
Recognize inspiring leaders and support the mission of the Shining Light Awards
Help us celebrate the individuals who build bridges and foster collaboration across Southeast Michigan. Nominate deserving leaders for future Shining Light Awards and learn about the qualities we honor. You can also make a vital impact by becoming a sponsor. Your support helps us elevate these important stories and demonstrates your commitment to our region’s progress and well-being.
CBS News Michigan Matters: Conventions proliferate as Shining Light Awards to light up Ford Field
Detroit’s become one of the hottest destinations in the country for big-time conventions. What’s driving the interest?
Claude Molinari, president and CEO of Visit Detroit, Robert Pliska of Sperry Property Investment Counselors, and Eric Larson, CEO of Downtown Detroit Partnership, who have worked behind the scenes to make it happen, appear on Michigan Matters this Sunday to discuss the sudden interest in the Motor City.


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