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Three Community Members Sign on to TCHM Board

11/21/25, 5:00 PM

Museum Board Welcomes Retired History Teacher, Lawyer, and Researcher

Dan Martin

Daniel R. Martin joined Thrun Law Firm in May of 2013. He regularly advises municipalities as well as school boards. Dan has presented throughout the state on planning and zoning, the OMA/FOIA, student discipline, special education, constitutional law and civil rights, and labor and employment matters. Dan was born and raised in a family of educators, which led him to value public education and public service. Dan currently serves on the Tri-Cities Y Board. Dan previously served as the president of both Ottawa County 2-1-1 and Community Access Line of the Lakeshore 2-1-1 (CALL 2-1-1). Dan provided pro bono legal services for both CALL 2-1-1 and Northeast Michigan 2-1-1, assisting those organizations in obtaining designation from the Michigan Public Service Commission as being the regional 2-1-1 call centers. Dan also served as past president of the Grand Haven Schools Foundation Board. While at Albion College, Dan played defensive back on the Brits’ football team, which won three consecutive MIAA titles from 1989-1991. Dan lives in Grand Haven with his wife and two children. He enjoys photography, reading, and engaging in various outdoor activities with his family, depending on the season. My wife, Wynne, and I have been married for 31 years, and we have two adult children.


Liz Kochmanski

Liz Kochmanski has lived in Spring Lake for the past 8 years and was drawn to the town because of the beautiful old homes and proximity to Lake Michigan. With her husband, son, and 2 dogs, Liz loves hiking the dunes and visiting the lighthouse. Liz holds PhDs in Plant Biology and Ecology from Michigan State University, and works to bridge the gap between scientific research and real-world application - connecting scientists with farmers, educators, students, artists, and other to ensure research meets community needs. She recently served as the Chair of the Spring Lake Historic Commission and looks forward to this new opportunity to give back to her town.


Christina Toppen

Christina Toppen is a longtime community member, retired Social Studies teacher with a Master’s degree in Education, and has a deep passion for history. Over the years, she’s helped start and support community action groups and enjoys staying involved in projects that strengthen local connections. In her free time, she loves the beach, knitting, spending time with  family, and traveling to destinations steeped in history.

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