LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – Here’s a look at the latest business headlines across the Lansing area.
Blue Cross Sells AF Group to Enstar
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has agreed to sell its subsidiary AF Group to Enstar Group.
The companies say the transaction, announced February 13, positions AF Group for expansion while strengthening Blue Cross’s financial foundation. Enstar, a leading global insurance and reinsurance group with over $22 billion in assets, brings more than 30 years of experience in pioneering insurance solutions.
“This transition recognizes the strength of AF Group, combining our specialist expertise, underwriting discipline and people-first culture with Enstar’s market experience and financial strength,” said Lisa Corless, president and CEO of AF Group.
The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. Upon completion, AF Group is expected to continue operating as a largely standalone company from its Lansing headquarters.
$50M Leinweber Gift to Transform MSU Engineering Education
The Leinweber Foundation has committed $50-million to Michigan State University to establish a landmark engineering and innovation center, marking the largest gift ever to a facility at the university.
The Leinweber Center for Engineering and Digital Innovation will be a 265,000-square-foot facility for education, research and career readiness across disciplines including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, semiconductor research and entrepreneurship.
“This investment will help us educate the next generation of engineers, scientists and innovators whose work will define the future economy of the state of Michigan and beyond,” MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz said.
Construction is expected to be substantially completed by December 2028.
Deb Muchmore Elected Chair of Michigan Chamber of Commerce Board
The Michigan Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors elected Deb Muchmore as chairperson for the 2026 calendar year.
Muchmore succeeds David Lewis, president of the Heartland States for AT&T, who served as chair in 2025.
Michigan Chamber President and CEO Jim Holcomb said Muchmore is positioned to lead in a pivotal year.
“As Michigan enters a highly consequential election year, Deb’s credibility, strategic insight and trusted leadership position her perfectly to build on that foundation and ensure the voice of business remains clear, constructive and effective.”
Muchmore founded her public and government affairs advisory firm in 2018.
Dean Mazzoni to Lead McLaren Greater Lansing as New President and CEO
McLaren Greater Lansing has named Dean Mazzoni president and chief executive officer, the health care organization announced.
Mazzoni brings more than 20 years of senior leadership experience in complex health care organizations. Most recently, he served as president and CEO of Franciscan Alliance’s Michigan City Division in Indiana, where he oversaw an acute care hospital and more than 400 physicians.
“Dean brings a proven ability to lead complex health care organizations while keeping patients, families, and care teams at the center of decision making,” said April Clobes, chair of McLaren Greater Lansing’s Board of Trustees. “With his experience championing his vision, we feel our hospital is well positioned for continued growth in our service to the Lansing community.”
Mazzoni holds a master’s degree in public health and an MBA from the University of Notre Dame.
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Blue Cross sells subsidiary, MSU gets gift for engineering center and other business headlines from across Lansing – WILX
