Melanie A. Markowicz (she/her/hers)

Executive Director
Midtown Detroit, Inc.
Detroit, Michigan

Melanie Markowicz is Executive Director of Midtown Detroit, Inc., where she leads the continued evolution of Midtown—one of Detroit’s most significant cultural and institutional districts. An urban steward, her work bridges urban planning, historic preservation, public space strategy, and inclusive neighborhood development, advancing connectivity, supporting small businesses, and strengthening the district’s identity.

With more than 20 years of experience spanning economic development, urban planning, and government and nonprofit leadership, Markowicz is known for aligning institutions, communities, and investment to create cohesive, people-centered environments. Her work emphasizes public space, mobility, and cultural assets as essential infrastructure for equitable growth and long-term community vitality.

Previously, as Executive Director of the Greektown Neighborhood Partnership, she led the $20 million Monroe Street shared streetscape and secured a $13.7 million MEDC grant for Randolph Plaza, leveraging over $50 million in private investment. She has also advanced key preservation initiatives, including Historic Hamtramck Stadium and several nationally recognized civil rights sites.

Markowicz holds an MFA in Historic Preservation from SCAD and is a Crain’s Detroit Business “40 Under 40” honoree.

Disclosure information not submitted.

Presentation(s):

• The Detroit Thread: Weaving Together Campus and Community

  Sunday, April 26, 2026
  4:00 PM - 4:45 PM CT