Austin Marsman of Plainwell has joined the staff at the Great Lakes Political Academy for Leadership, Education and Development, (GLPA-LEAD) based in Brighton, Mich. Marsman, a graduate of Martin High School, served on the Martin Board of Education, ran unsuccessfully for Allegan County Commissioner and was a member of the Student Senate for one year at Grand Valley State University. He resigned his post on the Martin school board last month after serving three years. The GLPA is a political organization that works to encourage people to run for office and promote grass-roots politics.