Supervisor
Dr. JoAnne McFarland O’Rourke was elected Supervisor in 2024. With extensive experience in social science research, Dr. O'Rourke brings a research-driven approach to township leadership. She has led large, multi-disciplinary teams on nationally significant projects in mental health, substance abuse, child welfare, and expanding access to publicly funded research data.
Her career includes 16 years at the University of Michigan’s Institute for Social Research, 10 years working and consulting in Washington, D.C., and 3 years at Western Michigan University’s (WMU) College of Health and Human Services, where she served for 2 years as Director of Research. In addition to her duties as supervisor, she maintains a private clinical practice in the township. She grew up in Southwest Michigan and returned in 2013, making Texas Township her home.
Dr. O'Rourke holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Health Sciences from WMU, a Master of Social Work with honors from the University of Michigan, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, magna cum laude from WMU. She also completed a two-year executive leadership certification program with the Institute for Leadership Fitness.
Serves on the following Committees:
- DDA
- Kalamazoo Regional Water and Wastewater
- Personnel Policy
- Road Committee
She is available at her township hall office during the following hours:
Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
* Additional availability by appointment