FLINT, Mich. — Mott Community College (MCC) Trustee Janet Couch has resigned from the MCC Board.
According to an Aug. 6, 2025, press release from MCC, Couch’s resignation became effective on July 28 once Board Chairman Jeffrey Swanson received it.
Couch’s tenure ended amid controversy surrounding a lawsuit filed by the Mott Community College Education Association, which raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest involving her daughter and Interim President Shaunda Richardson-Snell.
The lawsuit challenged the legality of the board’s vote to offer Richardson-Snell the presidency, alleging a lack of transparency in the selection process and possible violations of the faculty’s collective bargaining agreement.
In November 2024, Shaunda Richardson-Snell purchased a rental property in Flint. Her real estate agent was Dana Whitehead — the daughter of Janet Couch — raising questions about a potential conflict of interest.
On July 25, 2025, the lawsuit was dismissed by an Ingham County Circuit Court judge.
Couch also came under fire for allegedly making racial comments on social media.
The five unions representing MCC sent a letter to the MCC Board of trustees after learning about racially-charged posts on Couch’s social media before her election to the board.
The complaint stated that, due to the nature of her past race-focused social media posts, Couch is not able to fairly or objectively represent the diverse population within the college district.
Brian Littleton, the President of Mott Community College Education Association said Couch referred to former Mayor Karen Weaver as the “black mayor” and made other racially insensitive comments.
MCC Board Chairman Jeffrey Swanson acknowledged Couch’s resignation in a statement and praised her years of service.
“Janet has served with diligence throughout her term,” said Chairman Swanson. “I thank Janet for her dedication, tenacity and service to our students and wish her well in her new home.”
Under Michigan law, the board must appoint a replacement by majority vote within 30 days of the resignation’s effective date, or by Aug. 27, 2025.