ACRL BOARD
meet the board
James P. Allen, Esq.
Board Chairman
Jim, the proud grandson of Lebanese immigrants, has been a member of the ACRL Board for over a decade.
Jim Allen, a partner at Schenk & Bruetsch, a prominent law firm based in Detroit, has cultivated an impressive legal career spanning 29 years. Beginning with the Michigan Attorney General’s office, he honed his skills as a judicial law clerk for distinguished figures such as the Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court and a United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Michigan. A graduate of the University of Michigan Law School in 1994, Jim furthered his expertise with a Master’s Degree in Industrial Relations from Wayne State in 2004. Specializing in representing a diverse clientele ranging from commercial to governmental entities, Jim’s dedication to legal excellence is matched only by his pride in his Lebanese heritage as the grandson of Lebanese immigrants, as demonstrated by his decade-long commitment as a board member of the ACRL.
James P. Allen, Esq.
Board Chairman
Mona Fadlallah, Esq.
Vice Chairman
Mona has previously served as Co-Chair of BRIDGES (Building Respect In Diverse Groups to Enhance Sensitivity) and participated in ALPACT (Advocates and Leaders For Police And Community.
Mona Fadlallah, an esteemed attorney and partner at Vida Law Group in Canton, Michigan, also serves as a Magistrate at the 20th District Court in Dearborn Heights. Throughout her distinguished career, Mona has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to the legal profession and community advocacy. Notably, she was honored with the Legal Redress Award from the NAACP-Western Wayne County Branch and ADC’s Pro Bono Of The Year Award. Mona’s commitment to community service extends to her leadership roles as the former President of AAPAC (Arab American Political Action Committee) and ADC Greater Detroit Chapter, as well as her current position as Vice Chairwoman of the ACRL. In addition to her involvement in various organizations, Mona is an active member of NAABA (National Arab American Attorney Bar Association-Michigan Chapter) and AAPAC. She has previously co-chaired BRIDGES (Building Respect In Diverse Groups to Enhance Sensitivity) and participated in ALPACT (Advocates and Leaders For Police And Community). Mona’s dedication to justice and advocacy continues to positively impact both the legal profession and the broader community.
Rula Aoun
Treasurer
Rula is currently a Magistrate Judge at the 19th District Court for the City of Dearborn.
Rula Aoun, formerly the director of the ACRL from 2016 to 2022, currently serves as a Magistrate Judge at the 19th District Court for the City of Dearborn. Additionally, she is a dedicated full-time attorney and partner at Cochran, Kroll & Associates PC, a leading personal injury law firm, where she has been employed since 2017. Graduating with her JD from Wayne State University Law School in 2014, Rula specialized in Business and Entrepreneurship Law. During her time in law school, she demonstrated her commitment to social justice by assisting fleeing refugees in securing asylum in the United States and serving as an intern at the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan under the Honorable Chief Judge Gerald Rosen. Subsequently, Rula was awarded a fellowship at the Wayne Law Group, a nonprofit training law firm providing affordable legal services to underserved Detroit-area businesses and entrepreneurs.
Rula Aoun
Treasurer
Commissioner Sam Baydoun
Secretary
Baydoun also led the Dearborn Area Board of Realtors as its president and later as the chairman of government affairs. Baydoun was appointed by Congresswoman Debbie Dingell to lead the Realtor Political Action Committee.
Sam Baydoun is a distinguished figure in both real estate and public service. Serving as a Wayne County Commissioner, he plays a pivotal role in shaping policies related to Public Services, Economic Development, and Ways and Means. With over 33 years of experience in the real estate business, Baydoun has earned numerous accolades, including induction into the prestigious Century 21 International Centurion Hall of Fame. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his outstanding sales production, achieved without a team, and has held leadership roles in organizations such as the Dearborn Area Board of Realtors and the Realtor Political Action Committee, appointed by Congresswoman Debbie Dingell. An immigrant from Lebanon, Baydoun arrived in the United States at the age of 15 and pursued his education with determination, earning an associate degree from Henry Ford Community College and a bachelor’s degree in business administration/marketing from Detroit College of Business.
Nabih Ayad
Founder
Attorney Ayad has been featured in almost every major media outlet in the world taking on cases to protect our nation’s constitutional rights.
Nabih H. Ayad, Esq., a distinguished attorney, earned his JD from the Detroit College of Law at MSU in 1998 and a B.S. in Accounting from Wayne State School of Business in Detroit in 1995. With over 22 years of private practice at Ayad Law, PLLC, he has established an impressive career. Notably, he is the Founder of the Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL) and served as a Michigan Civil Rights Commissioner from 2008 to 2011. Ayad’s extensive leadership roles include serving as Vice President of the Arab-American Political Action Committee (AAPAC), Chairman of the NAACP Western Wayne County Legal Redress Committee for 18 cities, and Co-Chair of ALPACT (Advocates and Leaders for Police and Community Trust). He also sat on the National Executive Board for ADC and chaired its Advisory Board for the State of Michigan. Additionally, he served on the Board of the Detroit Wayne County Airport Authority from 2015 to 2021, culminating in his chairmanship in his final year. Ayad has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards for his tireless advocacy, including the ADC National Advocate of the Year Award, the NAACP Great Expectation Award, the Forum and Link Magazine Distinguished Leadership Award, the Wayne County Community Leadership Award, the AAPAC Community Service Leadership Award, and the Alkebulans Community Leadership Award, among others. These accolades underscore his significant contributions to the community and legal profession.
Nabih Ayad
Founder
Reverend Dr. Wendell Anthony
Board of Directors
Reverend Anthony led and coordinated the Connected Futures Program with business and corporate leaders. This program raised $23 million to provide laptop and Wi-Fi connectivity for 51,000 students, grades K-12, in the Detroit Public Schools Community District
Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony, pastor of Fellowship Chapel United Church of Christ since December 1986, also serves as President of the Detroit Branch NAACP for the thirteenth year. Reverend Anthony’s extensive community involvement includes membership on several boards such as New Detroit Inc, the General Retirement System for the City of Detroit, First Independence Bank, and the United Way of Southeastern Michigan. As a champion of various causes, he has founded several impactful initiatives, including the Fannie Lou Hamer Political Action Committee, the Freedom Institute for Economic Social Justice and People Empowerment, the James E. Wadsworth Jr. Community Center, and the Amandla Community Development Corporation. Throughout his career, Rev. Anthony has organized significant events such as the Million Man March Committee in 1995 and the Rwanda Relief Effort in 1994, where over one million dollars was raised to aid refugees. Notably, during the 2020 pandemic, he led the Connected Futures Program, raising $23 million to provide essential technology access to students in the Detroit Public Schools Community District. His leadership continues to inspire, with plans underway for the upcoming commemoration of the 60th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King’s march in June 2023.
Marvin Beatty
Board of Directors
On January 1, 1994, he retired from his position as Deputy Fire Commissioner. He was the first African-American to hold that position in the department’s history.
Marvin Beatty brings over 22 years of dedicated service with the City of Detroit Fire Department, culminating in his retirement as Deputy Fire Commissioner on January 1, 1994, where he made history as the first African-American to hold that position. Transitioning to community leadership, he assumed the role of Executive Director at the Wadsworth Community Center in Detroit, Michigan. Beyond his professional endeavors, Beatty’s commitment to community service is evident through his involvement with various organizations, including serving as a Board Member for the NAACP, President of the Coleman A. Young Foundation Board, and member of the Downtown Detroit Partnership Board of Directors. He has also played pivotal roles in notable projects such as the development of Gateway Market Place, the first major shopping development in Detroit in over 40 years, and ongoing efforts with Magic Plus Development in revitalizing the Old State Fair Grounds. Currently serving as a Board Member of the Wayne County Airport Authority and actively engaged in the redevelopment of properties in Eastern Market Detroit through Firm Real Estate, Beatty continues to make significant contributions to the city’s growth and development.
Nasser Beydoun
Board of Directors
For more than two decades, Nasser has been a fierce advocate for civil rights, calling out injustice wherever it exists while engaging law enforcement to help it better serve and protect.
Nasser Beydoun is a seasoned civil rights advocate and prominent business leader, renowned for his unwavering commitment to fostering unity and prosperity within communities. With a firm belief in the power of collective action, he champions the need for a responsive government that prioritizes the well-being and aspirations of its citizens. For over twenty years, Nasser has fearlessly spoken out against injustice and worked tirelessly to build bridges across diverse groups, fostering understanding and collaboration. As the dedicated leader of the Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL) since 2015, Nasser continues to spearhead initiatives aimed at ensuring equal rights and protections for individuals of all backgrounds. Drawing from his immigrant roots and entrepreneurial spirit, Nasser exemplifies resilience and determination, embodying the values of hard work and community empowerment.
Chaker Aoun
Board of Directors
Although he is known for his business leadership and savviness, Mr. Aoun is better recognized throughout Metro Detroit for being an active philanthropist and dedicated member of the community.
Chaker Aoun, an entrepreneur who immigrated to the United States in 1976, embarked on his business journey by establishing Garden Foods Distributors in Dearborn, Michigan, now one of the largest independent beverage wholesalers in the Midwest. Recognized for his business acumen, Mr. Aoun further expanded his ventures by founding Michigan Bottling & Custom Pack Company in Detroit in 2006, a notable beverage manufacturing plant. Beyond his professional pursuits, he is esteemed for his philanthropic contributions and active involvement in the Metro Detroit community. Mr. Aoun’s dedication extends to serving on the boards of organizations such as the Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL), American Arab Chamber of Commerce (AACC), and ACCESS, earning recognition for his impactful philanthropy and commitment to community betterment.
Chaker Aoun
Board of Directors
Megan Moslimani, Esq.
Board of Directors
Megan is known for her commitment to public service, sharp business mind and tenacity. She has done turnaround management for several companies.
Megan Moslimani, the CO-Founder of House of Drip & Wellness, is a dynamic Attorney & Business Consultant hailing from Detroit, Michigan, and raised in the heart of east Dearborn. Holding a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Michigan-Dearborn and a Law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law in 2010, Megan boasts a thriving 13-year career in law. Her professional journey includes 4 years as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Wayne County and 8 years with the City of Detroit, where she spearheaded innovative initiatives such as the Nation’s first Marijuana Ventures and Entrepreneurship Department and the Homegrown Detroit social equity program. Renowned for her commitment to public service, sharp business acumen, and tenacity, Megan has also excelled in turnaround management for several companies. With a deep understanding of beauty and wellness services acquired since her teenage years, Megan is adept at crafting unforgettable experiences for every client she serves.
Amer Zahr
Board of Directors
Amer holds a BA in History, a MA in Middle East Studies, and a JD, all from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. He writes and speaks widely on political and social affairs, and has appeared on radio and television, including ABC, CNN, Fox, MSNBC, Al-Jazeera, and more.
Amer Zahr, a Palestinian Arab American comedian, speaker, professor, and writer, is celebrated for his multifaceted contributions to comedy and advocacy. As the founder of both the “1001 Laughs Dearborn Comedy Festival” and the “1001 Laughs Palestine Comedy Festival,” Amer has showcased his comedic talent and commitment to cultural representation. His documentary film, “We’re Not White,” offers a comedic and insightful exploration of the Arab-American struggle for recognition in the United States Census Form. A prominent figure in political circles, Amer has served as a national surrogate for Senator Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaigns in both 2016 and 2020. Since 2015, he has enriched the academic landscape as an adjunct professor at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, specializing in issues pertinent to Arab Americans. With a BA in History, a MA in Middle East Studies, and a JD from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Amer’s insights and perspectives have been widely shared on prominent media platforms including ABC, CNN, Fox, MSNBC, and Al-Jazeera, solidifying his role as a respected voice in political and social discourse.
Amer Zahr
Board of Directors
Randy Oram
Board of Directors
Randy has been very active in the Southeastern Michigan volunteer and business community, providing market leadership in various retail, business and charitable efforts He volunteers a significant amount of his personal time and resources to advance causes benefiting both youth and seniors, recognizing both the importance of investing in our future and honoring our past.
Randy Oram is an esteemed American Chaldean, raised in Detroit and currently residing in Orchard Lake, Michigan with his wife and four children. With a rich background in business ownership, real estate development, and advertising, Randy brings a wealth of experience and expertise to every endeavor. As the President of International Outdoor Inc. of Michigan (IO) and holding key positions in other local and regional companies, Randy has amassed over thirty years of experience in advertising, marketing, finance, management, and sales. His success is rooted in his commitment to honesty, respect, and exceptional customer service, always striving to surpass expectations. Actively involved in the Southeastern Michigan volunteer and business community, Randy dedicates his personal time and resources to various charitable efforts, recognizing the importance of investing in the future while honoring the past. His philosophy emphasizes the integral role of his companies in the local business and philanthropic community, serving those who support him in meaningful ways.
Randy Oram
Board of Directors
Wally Jadan
Board of Directors
Wally served as charter president of the Chaldean American Kiwanis Club from 1978-1990. He then served and became a C.F.A. Board of Directors member in 1987-1991. In addition, he served on the boards of World Medical Relief and ACRL.
Wally Jadan, the CEO of MEA TV & Radio, has dedicated over three decades to providing a unique niche in television broadcasting within the Middle Eastern American Community. Recognizing the need for educational, economic, and social advancement, Jadan established MEA TV to bridge connections between the local Middle Eastern American Community and the broader community. With a reach extending to platforms such as Sling, The Arabic Package, Apple TV, Roku, Firestick, and Smart TVs, MEA TV & Radio boasts over 175,000 daily viewers, supplemented by an extensive online presence through their website, mobile app, and e-newsletter. Under Jadan’s leadership, MEA TV has developed a diverse range of local programs catering to both long-time viewers and a younger audience base, featuring talented Middle Eastern News Anchors and Show hosts. Beyond his professional endeavors, Jadan’s community involvement spans over 25 years, including leadership roles in organizations such as the Iraqi United Youth, Chaldean American Kiwanis Club, and participation on the boards of World Medical Relief and ACRL.
Zeina Djurovski
Board of Directors
Notably, Zeina had the honor of serving in the United States Senate, where she diligently assisted the constituents of Michigan with immigration and various other matters before federal agencies.
Zeina Djurovski, a Michigan native and resident, is a seasoned attorney with a Juris Doctorate from Wayne State University Law School (2006) and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. With over a decade of experience in private practice, Zeina specializes in immigration and criminal law.
Her distinguished career includes serving in the United States Senate, where she provided invaluable assistance to Michigan constituents on immigration and federal agency matters. Notably, Zeina led outreach efforts for Arab American and Chaldean American communities during her tenure.
Committed to community service, Zeina is actively involved in professional associations like the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). Her dedication to pro bono work earned her the Pro Bono Recognition Award from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in September 2012. Previously, Zeina served on the Executive Board of the Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL) from 2012 to 2014, demonstrating her commitment to the organization’s mission. Additionally, she contributed her expertise as a member of the ADC Advisory Board and the NAACP-Western Wayne County Legal Redress Committee.
Zeina Djurovski
Board of Directors
Mariam Charara, LLMSW
Executive Director
Mariam is certified for 4000 hours of supervised social work post-masters experience and has partnered with the Department of Human Services, Department of Corrections, Juvenile Justice Systems, Foster Care Agencies, and community-led organizations.
Mariam Charara, a dedicated Limited Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Michigan, holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Wayne State University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Born and raised in Dearborn, Michigan, Mariam’s advocacy journey spans over 15 years, driven by her personal background as the daughter of Lebanese immigrants. She honed her passion for advocacy and social justice during her tenure as the first intern at the Arab American Civil Rights League, subsequently serving as a board member for the Arab Student Union and receiving the Community Service award for her outstanding dedication. Recognized for her leadership, Mariam was honored with the ‘Emerging Leader’ award from the University of Michigan-Dearborn in 2012. As the Executive Director of the Arab American Civil Rights League, Mariam is wholeheartedly dedicated to safeguarding civil rights, championing Arab cultural heritage, and combating bias and discrimination. She provides crucial support to individuals facing discrimination, defamation, and hate crimes, collaborating closely with authorities to advocate for favorable policies and governance to protect and empower the Arab American community. In recognition of her exemplary leadership, Mariam was named among the distinguished awardees of the Arab America Foundation’s 40 Under 40 initiative – Class of 2023.
Mariam Charara, LLMSW
Executive Director