Recognizing Devin Scillian, Mike Duggan During the 2025 Mackinac Policy Conference

For nearly three decades, journalist Devin Scillian has been a key part of the Detroit media industry, covering not only the city’s biggest moments but the Chamber’s as well. Scillian has been a fixture at the Detroit Policy Conference and especially the Mackinac Policy Conference over the years, moderating some of the most impactful sessions and delighting guests with his musical talents.

“Devin’s voice has particular strengths…of bringing different perspectives together,” Dingell said. “But [he believes] in civility and telling the stories … [he] will always be a part of the Michigan DNA.”

“Trust is the currency of this business, and [Scillian has been] standing on 30 years of business and trust, and telling them what’s going on,” Finley said. “Flashpoint has become a forum for civil and impactful debate and the sort of discussions that you so rarely see on television.”

“The lean-into depth and nuance is really difficult to do on air…and [Devin makes] that look so simple,” Henderson said. “It’s a rare quality to have in journalism and broadcasting.”

“Devin has many superpowers and one of them is showing up…with curiosity, authenticity, and kindness,” McDonald said. “For me, it’s really personal. Devin is a great friend…who’s always there, to talk to you and not look around the room for someone more important…and that’s very rare in a business that tends to have a lot of ego.”

“Every time I come up [to the Conference], I always feel so enriched. …I learn so very much…and I’ve taken twice as much as I’ve given for sure,” Scillian said. “I’ve been saying I’m not really retired, it’s more rewired, like Tammy [Carnrike] has said.”

“[Carnrike] has shown up throughout her career, intellectually, psychologically, and emotionally, in creating the brand of building a strong Chamber,” Keith said.

“Thank you for your leadership, it’s been a joy working with you. My team feels that way,” Whitmer said. “We wanted to acknowledge everything you’ve done to create such a successful Conference.” 

“Leading from the front means demonstrating what’s expected, modeling behavior, going first, and guiding others by example,” Archer said. “And that is how [Carnrike has] led.” 

“I’ve known [Carnrike] for over 20 years, and have known [her] to be the most professional, intelligent, and capable individual,” Brochert said. “I think [she‘s] going to do just fine in [her] new ventures.” 

“Congratulations on an incredible run at [the Conference] and the Chamber,” Ford said. “The Conference won’t quite be the same without [her].” 

“We know that [you are] our go-to … for sage advice,” Shank said. “Here we are in the midst of a transformational revitalization [in the Region] and you have been a key part of it.” 

“You all see Tammy in this very, very public role, what you don’t see is how…[she] has been an incredible mentor to our staff,” Baruah said. “And so many of those younger staff 20 years ago are now today’s executive leaders, not just in our organization but around the state.”