FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 27, 2025

Northstar Bank Appoints Dr. Lauren Bigelow to Board of Directors

Ann Arbor, MI — Northstar Bank, a community-focused financial institution with over $1 billion in assets and a Superior 5-Star Bauer Financial rating, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Lauren Bigelow to its Board of Directors. This appointment reinforces the bank’s commitment to driving innovation, financial stewardship, and community impact.

“Northstar Bank guides the way with service, leadership and trust,” states its mission. Since opening its first branch in Bad Axe in 2001, the bank has grown to nearly 100 professionals across Michigan -- with recent branch expansions in Ann Arbor and Fort Gratiot in 2024 and continues to strengthen its deep local roots.

Dr. Bigelow joins Northstar bringing more than 20 years of experience at the intersection of entrepreneurship, venture investment, and economic development. As Managing Partner of the Growth Capital Network, she has led multimillion-dollar state, foundation, and university programs, supporting startups that have raised over $4 billion in follow-on capital. Her leadership spans clean energy, fintech, AI, advanced mobility, and B2C innovation.

In addition to her executive roles—such as overseeing North American operations at Bloomberg New Energy Finance and advising Rock Ventures—Lauren holds key board leadership positions, including Board President of the Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council and Chair of the Institute for Energy Innovation. She also serves on the Financial Authority Board for the Michigan Treasury, and as a finance lecturer at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business.

“Dr. Bigelow’s blend of strategic leadership, financial oversight, and entrepreneurial experience aligns perfectly with Northstar’s mission to guide our communities through innovation and trust,” said Debbie Cunningham, President & CEO of Northstar Bank. “Her appointment strengthens our capacity to support local businesses and foster sustainable growth.”

A resident of Southeast Michigan, Dr. Bigelow is an active civic leader who has built deep partnerships across universities, investors, public agencies, and nonprofits -- bridging capital, community, and impact at the regional level.

About Northstar Bank
Northstar Bank, held by Northstar Financial Group, Inc., is a State of Michigan-chartered, FDIC-insured community bank proudly rated 5-Stars by Bauer Financial. With assets totaling over $1 billion, Northstar Bank employs approximately 100 banking professionals with 10 branches in Michigan. Northstar Bank is an independent, locally operated, full-service bank offering a broad range of financial services. Our mission is to guide the way with service, leadership, and trust. We are dedicated to building successful relationships within our communities.

About Dr. Lauren Bigelow
Dr. Bigelow is a nationally recognized leader in technology commercialization, entrepreneurship, venture investment, and organizational governance. Her experience spans roles as a serial entrepreneur, executive advisor, board leader, angel investor, and university lecturer—bringing deep expertise in strategic partnerships, financial diligence, and ecosystem building.

Media Contact:
Jodi Sevigny |SVP, Director of Marketing | Northstar Bank
616.786.9736| jodi.sevigny@teamnfgi.com
www.northstar.bank