MLC’s Ann Spagnuolo Retiring

At the end of this month, we’ll say goodbye to our longest-serving employee, Ann Spagnuolo, who began in 1988. In nearly four decades, she’s witnessed significant changes. When she started, MLC had just purchased its first computer. Despite that, she quickly became proficient in shorthand and dictation, as the original three lobbyists preferred that method! Now, if you visit our offices, you will see technology woven into every aspect of serving our clients.

Not only has technology evolved during her time, but the firm itself has grown exponentially. From three lobbyists and one support staff to now eight lobbyists and eight support staff. Likewise, we’ve grown from just over 20 clients to nearly 100 with whom we partner with today.  “Ann’s institutional knowledge in MLC will be missed,” said MLC Partner Brendan Ringlever. “On behalf of the partners and the entire firm, I want to thank Ann for her years of dedication to MLC and our clients. While we will miss seeing you around the office, we are excited to see the adventures you will have in retirement!”

• • What is your favorite MLC memory?
    • Celebrating MLC’s 50^th Anniversary! It was amazing to see the history presented and the growth that has occurred over the years. I had a fun time seeing everyone from the past to the current come together to share stories and celebrate the firm’s success.

• • How has MLC changed the most since you started with the firm in 1988?
    • The size of the company has grown so much, from just four people to 16 now. Also, MLC had 23 clients when I started and has nearly quadrupled since then, and we offer those clients many more services. As the firm has grown, the processes have changed dramatically. When I started at MLC, they had just gotten their first computer and were trying to find someone who knew how to use it. A typewriter and carbon paper were being used at that time, along with shorthand or typing from a transcription machine for memos and reports to clients. There were no fax machines, pagers, or cell phones back then, and things were much simpler; you left the office and did not have any communication until the next morning. As everyone knows, work can now follow you wherever you go 24-7!

• • What is the most important lesson you learned during your nearly 40 years at MLC?
    • I learned quickly in this business that building good relationships is key. Those friendships over the years were critical to helping our clients achieve their goals and find success in Lansing. Also, I learned over the years that no job is too big or too small (always my motto), and you must be willing to do more than what is in your job description.

• • What are you most looking forward to in retirement?
    • I’m looking forward to having more time to spend with family and friends. Also, traveling and spending time at our cottage. As a fan of warmer weather, I’m hoping to spend a couple of months somewhere warm during the winter. Lastly, the ability to be spontaneous and do things at the last minute if we want. I cannot wait to see what adventures are out there to explore!