Michael A. Patton, MNA

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Michael Patton is a seasoned leader, author, Air Force veteran, and faith-driven changemaker with over 30 years of experience in public service, nonprofit leadership, and community empowerment. He currently serves as the President and CEO of the Southwestern Michigan Urban League, where he leads strategic efforts to advance equity, opportunity, and economic mobility for underserved communities.

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Throughout his distinguished career, Michael has held several impactful leadership roles, including serving directly under two mayors in different cities, where he provided strategic guidance on policy, community development, and diversity initiatives. He also served as CEO and President of the Urban League of South Bend, Indiana, and as Board President of the South Bend Branch of the NAACP—demonstrating a lifelong commitment to civil rights and social justice. ​A proud United States Air Force veteran, Michael brings the same discipline, service ethic, and leadership cultivated during his military service to every role he assumes.

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Michael holds a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management from Bethel University and an Executive Master’s in Nonprofit Administration from the University of Notre Dame. He also earned a Workplace Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from the University of South Florida. His academic background has equipped him with the tools to lead with vision, strategy, and compassion.

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In addition to his professional accomplishments, Michael is the Senior Pastor of Kingdom Life Christian Cathedral in South Bend, Indiana—a ministry he co-founded with his wife Tina. Married for 29 years, Michael and Tina are the proud parents of five adult children—Michael, Brittany, Devin, Tobias, and Jada—and joyful grandparents to their granddaughter, India. Tobias and Jada both play collegiate basketball, reflecting the family’s strong values of excellence and perseverance.

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Michael is also the author of Reconnecting with Divine Grace, a deeply personal and spiritual book that encourages readers to find healing and purpose through faith. He has served on numerous boards and advisory committees throughout his career, contributing his leadership and insight to a variety of civic, educational, and faith-based organizations.

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Rooted in faith, dedicated to family, and driven by a passion for justice and service, Michael Patton continues to serve as a transformative voice for equity and empowerment in every space he enters.