For the past 29 years, Ms. Vandemark has been executive director of the Human Development Commission, a community action agency serving the four rural counties of Huron, Lapeer, Sanilac and Tuscola in the Thumb area of Michigan. She has been involved in community action for 36 years, with particular emphasis in the areas of community economic development, housing and energy-related activities. She is a certified community action professional and participated in Pratt University's national internship program in community economic development.