Supporters and donors of Alianta gathered at the Oracle Townhouse near the Capitol on Monday, March 7th to welcome Bill Avery and Daniela Kammrath to their new roles, as Executive Director and Community Projects Director, respectively. In addition, Alianta welcomed special guest Lauren Rakolta as 2018 Gala Chair, who promised to bring her management and fundraising experience to help Alianta achieve its targets.
Alianta Chair Jim Rosapepe, and former US ambassador to Romania kicked off the proceedings, with a capsule summary of the organization’s achievements to date. Bill Avery pledged to bring his business experience in Romanian and US business to the organization, while Daniela Kammrath described her work with Romanian-American cultural organizations across the country this year to promote and sustain Romanian film festivals and accredited Romanian-language training.
Gala Chair Lauren Rakolta is the owner and President of DFM Solutions (DFMS) – the largest women-owned integrated facilities management organization in the US. With more than 300 employees in 20+ US locations, and $40M in annual revenue, Lauren has ensured the delivery of innovative and forward-thinking facilities and process equipment maintenance solutions to automotive, manufacturing, aviation, utilities, and commercial property customers. Major clients include GM, FCA, Ford, Toyota, Honda, and GE Jet Aviation.
Prior to her leadership of DFMS, Lauren spent the majority of her career serving as a senior advisor to both state-wide and national political candidates and committees. She continues to be an active member of numerous committees and associations, including board positions with The State of Michigan Children’s Trust Fund, United Way of Southeast Michigan, Great Lakes Women’s Business Council, and The Parade Company.
Lauren and husband Michael have four children.