Leadership Runs in the Family: Sibling Duo Liz and Mark Ware Elected to Steer Two Michigan Business Associations

For most families, stewarding one of Mackinac Island’s most historic and timeless resorts would be fulfilling enough. But the Ware family’s “business” is much larger in scope.  

Siblings Liz and Mark Ware are the owners and caretakers of Mission Point Resort, an island icon known for its scarlet roofs, white Adirondacks, and sprawling green lawns with magnificent views of Lake Michigan. Mission Point is the largest family-owned resort on Mackinac Island, with over 60 year-round staff members and 330 summer workers, but Liz and Mark have even bigger goals.  

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“Ours is a Pure Michigan story. After visiting Mackinac, we moved here from Illinois and California to the state where our father was born, invested, and built a renowned family owned and operated business. In doing so, it became clear that our family’s involvement in broader issues in the community and in the state was something we wanted to be a part of.” said Liz.  
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This year, both siblings stepped up into key leadership roles for prominent, industry-wide organizations that play a role in developing the economy around the state of Michigan. In 2025, Mark Ware was elected Treasurer of the Small Business Association of Michigan, and Liz Ware was elected Treasurer of the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association.  
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Both have been visionary leaders for a long time, making a mark on Mackinac Island’s tourism industry beyond the already remarkable stewardship of the Mission Point Resort. Mark is the President of the Mackinac Arts Council, serves on the Mackinac Island Housing Authority, and coaches for volleyball at Mackinac Island’s high school. Liz brings her passion to the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau and is the Honorary Chef of Mackinac Island’s Fire Department (one of only three in the department’s 200-year history).  
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But the Wares also have a dedicated to serving the hospitality industry through statewide leadership. Nominated to the Michigan Travel Commission by Governor Whitmer, Liz has also played instrumental roles with the MRLA, helping to kickstart the Women in Hospitality Leadership Conference, create the Michigan Hospitality & Tourism Alliance, and provide vision as a Board Member for the past several years.  

For Liz and Mark, leadership is not just about individual success in business. They believe in giving back and creating a legacy that opens opportunities for generations to come.  

Even more, the Wares feel deeply invested in the future of the state of Michigan.  

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"Michigan has given us so much. My sister and I feel a deep responsibility to give back through our work at Mission Point, our advocacy for small businesses, the hospitality and travel industry and our support for community initiatives," said Mark Ware. 

The combined vision of Liz and Mark Ware continues to shape the culture and economy of the state. The MRLA is proud to have Liz Ware serving as Treasurer of the MRLA Board of Directors, bringing both operational excellence and strategic vision to the association.  
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"Liz embodies the spirit of Michigan hospitality through her leadership at Mission Point Resort and her unwavering advocacy for our industry. Her passionate work to secure Pure Michigan funding, maintain the strength of the Women in Hospitality Leadership initiative, and strengthen tourism across the state among an endless list of other roles has made a lasting impact,” said Justin Winslow, President & CEO, Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association.   
To learn more about Liz and Mark’s work at Mission Point Resort and beyond, visit missionpoint.com.

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