The power of people-first work

For Leah Moskovitz '17, '20, hospitality was never just a job—it was a mindset.

“I want to make people feel better when they leave than when they came in,” she said. “That’s always been the goal.”

After earning her bachelor’s and MBA from Central Michigan University, Moskovitz’s journey took unexpected turns—from guest services manager at the Homestead Resort to workgroups and housing supervisor at Cherry Republic, and now, to village clerk for Elk Rapids, Mich.

But the through line has always been service.

“My Cherry Republic role opened my eyes to the need,” she said. “That’s where I realized I wanted to help people in a deeper way—and that I could do it in local government.”

Today, she assists the village council with managing seven boards and commissions, helps oversee construction and infrastructure projects, coordinates community programs, and serves as FOIA coordinator for her village. It’s a far cry from hotel lobbies, but her approach hasn’t changed.

“You listen to understand, not to respond,” she said. “Hospitality teaches you that—and it’s something I use every day in my role.”

That background, paired with business training from CMU, has shaped her ability to manage projects, communicate across work styles, and remain grounded in empathy and ethics.

“Trust is everything,” she said. “If residents don’t trust their municipality, nothing gets done. That’s why transparency, kindness, and honesty matter so much.”

She credits CMU not just with giving her technical skills, but with helping her grow into her own—through connections with faculty members like Ed Woelfert and Adam Epstein, through involvement in student groups like Hillel and Alpha Kappa Psi, and through people who challenged her when she needed it most.

“CMU helped me become who I am,” she said. “They helped me find my values, develop a strong work ethic, and see my potential.”

Looking ahead, Moskovitz hopes to continue growing her career in government—and even run for office someday. But for now, she’s focused on the work at hand.

“Change starts at the local level,” she said. “That’s where you can really make a difference.”