Jim LaJoie
Executive Director
Jim earned a master’s degree in Healthcare Administration and a bachelor’s degree in communications from Northern Michigan University.
An Upper Peninsula native and self-proclaimed sports “junkie,” Jim enjoys reading, camping, traveling to warm-weather climates, playing racquetball and tennis and spending quality time with his wife, Kim, and children. Jim also enjoys freelance writing and writes a monthly sports column for the U.P. Catholic newspaper. He’s also published three books, the latest entitled “No One Would Listen,” a fictional work that addresses adolescent bullying. Prior to that, he published “Hi Mom. It’s Me” which shares life lessons he learned from his late mom, who passed away from Alzheimer’s disease in April 2012.
“ I really enjoy meeting and interacting with people,” Jim said. “There is so much joy in giving, and I’m extremely proud to be part of a Foundation that is enhancing and improving the lives of people all across the Upper Peninsula. The Superior Health Foundation recently went over the $1 million mark in grant giving, which is a tremendous milestone. We have much work to do … I’m excited about our future.”
Laura Jarvi
Accountant and Grants Administrator
A native of Negaunee, Laura received her bachelor’s degree from Northern Michigan University in accounting/computer information systems.
In her current role, Laura oversees Foundation accounting and payroll, as well as database and grant management. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, and cheering for the Green Bay Packers.
Leah Berthiaume
Executive Assistant
Leah was born and raised in Marquette for most of her childhood. After living around the United States in her free-wheeling young adult days, found herself back in Marquette where she is at home by the therapeutic lake and woods. Leah is always ready to be helpful and meet you with a friendly smile.
“I look forward to coming to work each day, and I’m proud to be part of an organization that does so much good for so many people in the Upper Peninsula,” Leah said. “My eyes have been opened to the selflessness of board directors and volunteers. The caring community of the Upper Peninsula is so incredible.”
“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Aesop.
Amanda Boundy
Events Specialist
Emily Ellis
Community Engagement & Annual Giving Coordinator
Emily Ellis is the
Community Engagement and Annual Giving Coordinator. A proud Yooper, Emily joined the Superior Health Foundation team in late August. With nine
years of experience in the non-profit sector focused on community inclusion, Emily is excited to be a part of the foundation team. She holds a bachelors degree in molecular biology/human biology from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
“I am grateful to work with an organization that serves the needs of the Upper Peninsula and truly makes an impact in our local community,” Emily said.
With her adorable sidekick, dog Frank, Emily enjoys exploring the shorelines of Lake Superior. She also finds great joy on the ice and coaches figure skating locally.
“We are elated to have Emily join the Superior Health Foundation team,” said Jim LaJoie,
executive director of the Superior Health Foundation. “Emily and her skill set really stood out in the interview process. Her background in non-profit work and community engagement will benefit SHF in so many wonderful ways.”