Heart of Habitat & Pre-Event VIP Party

Ben Frederick was born and raised in Owosso.  He was inspired toward volunteer and public service at an early age when his family was given the opportunity to purchase a Habitat for Humanity home.

He went on to work for over fourteen years in both the Michigan House and Senate as a legislative staff member.  Locally, Ben was elected to the Owosso City Council for nine years including serving as Owosso’s youngest mayor. He went on to serve as state representative for three terms and was term-limited at the end of 2022. He served his final term as the House Majority Floor Leader, the second-ranking member of the House responsible for the scheduling, logistics and refinement of legislation awaiting passage by the chamber and coordination with committee chairpersons.

He also served in leadership roles related to Workforce and Talent Development as well as serving as Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee on Higher Education and Community Colleges, during which time he championed funding for adult learners and nontraditional students to better access postsecondary education opportunities including degrees, workforce certifications and apprenticeships.  

Ben has previously been involved in numerous volunteer capacities including the Kiwanis Club of Owosso, Saginaw-Shiawassee Habitat for Humanity, the Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce and has received numerous awards and recognitions.  

Ben is also a regular guest speaker and presenter delivering messages on leadership, civil discourse and effectiveness in the governmental sphere.   He lives in Owosso with his wife Lydia and their two children.