• Board member since 2026
• Resident of Union Pier, MI

Lisa Howard is a communications and public relations professional who has public, private and non-profit experience driving impactful communications strategies. She worked for Mayor Richard M. Daley as the chief spokesperson for Chicago’s Airport System and later served as his Deputy Press Secretary. 

From there, she joined McDonald’s Corporation and spent 20 years in a variety of roles, leading efforts on national and international media opportunities and brand building opportunities for six Olympic Games. Lisa took an international assignment for three years in China, a key growth market for McDonald’s. While in Shanghai, she directed the company’s media relations strategy and communications plan, including the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Games. She also led Ronald McDonald House Charities-China’s annual golf fundraising tournament.

From there, Lisa joined Exelon Corporation and led the External Communications function and established an annual communications plan to promote Exelon’s strategic initiatives. Today, Lisa is the Public Relations Director at the American Veterinary Medical Association, leading a team that includes media relations, advocacy/government relations communications and corporate communications for the non-profit that represents more than 108,000 veterinarians.

Music has always been a big passion for Lisa, and she has seen the power it has to transform and heal lives, build self-confidence and create a real sense of community. She sees the Acorn Theater as a true diamond in Southwest Michigan, with its welcoming and warm staff, beautiful stage, soaring ceilings, excellent acoustics and intimate setting to hear and discover great musical acts! She also enjoys playing guitar and mandolin.

Lisa lives in Union Pier full-time with her golden retriever Abby.