Emily Rissman, Internal Operations and Memorial Affairs Director

Emily is the first Internal Operations and Memorial Affairs Division Administrator of the MVAA. Prior to that, she was the Veteran Liaison Specialist for the Michigan Department of Corrections, where she focused on enhancing policies and programs to provide greater support to military and veteran employees as well as family members. Emily previously worked for eight years with MVAA as the Community Analyst and Acting Strategic Outreach Manager.

In her role, Emily has the challenging task of creating Michigan's first state veterans cemetery while providing oversight to the newly established Mental Health and Suicide Prevention section, the Communications team, the Michigan Veterans Resource Service Center and the Grants section. 

Apart from being an accomplished professional, Emily is also a major in the Army Reserves and serves as the executive officer for the 384th Military Police Battalion. She received her commission through Central Michigan University's ROTC program, where she also earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master's in administration. 

Emily and her husband Adam live in Coldwater with their three sons and three dogs. Additionally, she has the privilege of being an elected official for her city and is passionate about local politics and working to bring about change at the community level. When she's not working, Emily enjoys coaching her older two sons' soccer teams, exploring what our beautiful state has to offer, and just being outdoors.