Our Trustee Spotlight Series introduces the dedicated individuals behind the Library’s governance. Through these features, we hope to highlight the diverse experiences, skills, and perspectives that help shape the Library’s mission: engaging our diverse community through resources and experiences that celebrate ideas, inspire creativity, and enrich lives.
This month, we are delighted to introduce Ernie McClellan, Jr., Board President since August 2021.
Ernie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from Rockhurst University and has extensive experience in business operations and customer experience. His career history and leadership roles include:
- Managing sales operations at Sprint.
- Introducing innovative technology and processes to the Kansas City (MO) election board.
- Collaborating with leaders in the consulting industry like Accenture, Bertelsmann, and Cognizant to develop and refine customer experience solutions.
- Serving as a steering committee member for Heart of America United Way’s Young Leaders Society, Secretary of Mental Health America of the Heartland, and board member of the Troy Nature Society.
Currently, Ernie currently serves as the Senior Business Operations Manager for Ford’s joint venture, Percepta, overseeing operations for Ford Pro Intelligence in North America; he is also the Managing Broker at EMI Agency.
In this Q&A session, Ernie shares a little bit about himself and his goals as President and FCL Board member.
What inspired you to join the FCL Board of Trustees?
Libraries have always been an important space in my life. Upon hearing of some disruptions in library governance, I felt compelled to get involved.
How long have you been serving on the board, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I've been on the board for about 3 and a half years. My greatest joy is working together with the entire community to anticipate library service needs and help guide the library towards meeting as many of those needs as possible.
What is one goal or initiative you’re most excited about at the Library?
Formulation and implementation of our long-range planning activities. The staff and board have put much thought and effort into the future of FCL, and I'm excited to be a part of the progress.
What role do you think the Library plays in the community, and why is it important to you?
In today's environment, the library has become one of the few truly public spaces that are truly free, in every way. Allowing the opportunity to learn more about ourselves and our neighbors. It is of utmost importance to invigorate and maintain these spaces and knowledge resources. A knowledgeable and cultured community is a growing and vibrant community.
How long have you been part of this community, and what do you value most about it?
I began working in Farmington Hills around 2015. We moved here in 2017. The people here are most valuable to me. As one local business owner told me upon my arrival, Farmington Hills is a mini United Nations, we have the best of everyone here.
What’s your favorite book you’ve read or listened to recently (or an all-time favorite)?
My favorite book is always the one I'm currently reading. Right now, I am reading The Message by Ta-Nehisi Coates
About the FCL Board of Trustees
The Farmington Community Library Board of Trustees is composed of eight Trustees, with four appointed from the City of Farmington and four appointed from the City of Farmington Hills. Board members serve four-year terms. The Board is empowered to establish, maintain, and operate a public library for the district and to establish a district library fund.