Burke Sage
Burke started at MRA in 2000 after owning and operating a coffee and ice cream shop in West Michigan. He previously held sales and marketing positions in various industries and has a bachelor’s degree in merchandising management from Michigan State University.
Chris Smith
Chris serves as relationship manager for MRA’s state association and national credit card processing referral partners. He joined MRA in 2000 after earning a bachelor’s degree in business management from Ferris State University and employment as a retail furniture sales associate. He also serves as head coach for the Haslett High School boys’ varsity basketball team.
Miranda Piersol
Miranda joined MRA in 2014 after she was director of Hulfelt Management, a family owned company that procures, refurbishes and leases investment properties. She previously was sales representative for Virco Manufacturing in Jacksonville, Florida, managing furniture sales, delivery and the installation process for institutional clients. Her career also includes positions at two retailers. She is a graduate of the University of Florida, with a degree in journalism and a major in advertising.
Lindsey Tuggle
Lindsey joined MRA in 2019 after graduating from Northern Michigan University in May 2018. She spent two summers working for MRA as an intern in 2014 and 2015, most notably working with the Buy Nearby campaign. She played soccer at NMU and worked in marketing for Easy Ice in Marquette immediately after graduation.
Emily Walters
Emily, based in Traverse City, is a graduate of Central Michigan University and joined Michigan Retailers Association in December 2023. Emily previously was the lead property manager at Bayshore Vacation Rentals, overseeing a large portfolio in Northern Michigan.
