Click on photos for profiles of each honoree
Elizabeth Conley / the Detroit News

Men and women who have changed our lives for the better

They are giants among us. Fourteen citizens who use their talents to quietly impact the lives of millions of people in Michigan and around the world. They are the 2005 Michiganians of the Year, individuals whose contributions to society are unparalleled. Among them are advocates for the poor and mentally ill; a woman who works tirelessly to preserve the Motown legacy; a billionaire who brought the world to Detroit.

Inside this section, you'll also meet an all-pro Detroit Lion turned entrepreneur; a scientist fighting to use stem cells to heal the sick; and an educator and businessman who turned the dream of a new facility for performing arts students into a state-of-the-art reality.

As you read the profiles, you will notice that each honoree holds a mirror. While mirrors typically reflect physical attributes, the mirrors in this section reflect the passions that motivate the individuals.

Since 1978, The Detroit News has selected finalists from hundreds of nominations from readers and staffers who want to recognize the good works of Michigan residents.

From community leaders to environmentalists, this 28th annual group of Michiganians represents the myriad ways in which one person can make a difference.