Henry Sapp I Rodney Cole I Doris Seabrook
Every year during Black History Month, DTE’s REACH (Respecting Ethnic & Cultural Heritage) employee resource group gathers to honor employees for their exceptional leadership and mentorship, acknowledging them as trailblazers for establishing pathways of success for others to follow.
This year, we’re honoring Henry Sapp, gas distribution investigator; Rodney Cole, President, DTE Foundation and Corporate Citizenship; and Doris Seabrook, General Supervisor, Distribution Operations.
Sapp was born, raised and resides in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He’s worked with DTE for 23 years out of our Wealthy Station. But his work here is only a part of a much bigger life and mission.
In addition to DTE, Sapp is a Christian comedian, CEO of the non-profit Better, Wiser, Stronger Inc., a Kellogg Foundation Fellow, and a We Matter Now Initiative partner. It’s a lot of hats to wear, but Sapp says, “Where there is true passion, there will be results.”
Rodney Cole has worked in various roles with DTE for 19 years, starting in human resources, where he learned about the depth of the organization’s priorities and efforts. He served as director of our state government affairs, managing relationships with Michigan leaders. He then moved into public affairs, where he led our Community Engagement teams and served as vice president of the DTE Foundation before being promoted to his current role as President of the Foundation. He’s also involved with numerous community organizations around Detroit.
“I’ve been fortunate to have a number of people in every stage of my career mentor me, which is why it’s important for me to do the same for others,” he says.
Doris Seabrook has been with DTE for over 40 years. Seabrook started as a meter reader and has had various roles in field service and supervisory roles in Distribution Operations.
For young people who are building their career, she says to learn as much as you can. “Be willing to work on special projects, which can be a great learning experience,” she says. “When you are placed in a role that you are uncomfortable with, take it as a learning opportunity. And always keep your integrity.”
She says as she nears retirement that she’ll miss the people the most at DTE and helping the customers.
“It gives me great pleasure to congratulate the 2024 REACH Trailblazer winners,” says Laurie Washington, DTE program manager, Workforce Development and a member of the REACH steering committee. “Each winner exemplifies and demonstrates the importance of REACH and why we MUST continue to reach new levels to ensure many more trailblazers have an opportunity to inspire, innovate and deliver for their communities.”
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