Karl Nelson and S.T.R.I.V.E. Banquet

Karl earned is BA in Business Education and Mathematics – Ferris State University and his MA in Educational Leadership at Michigan State University. He is currently in the 3rd year as a doctoral student in the Education Leadership program at Michigan State University

Karl has been a teacher and coach at Creston and Ottawa Hills High Schools. The Athletic Director at Creston and Byron Center High Schools. He was also a Principal at Creston and Byron Center High Schools and is currently the Principal at Union High School.

He used to golf and run before the MSU program, but now just tries to find time to be with his two teenage daughters, Lexi 16 and Ally 14, and his beautiful wife Kristyn.

Today we also celebrate and recognize the students that have participated in the STRIVE Mentoring/Scholarship Program and their parents, mentors and schools for their support.

**********************************************************************************************************The mission of the STRIVE Program is to mentor high school students to achieve academic success, graduate from high school and continue their education in college, university, trade, technical or career school

In pursuit of this mission, the STRIVE program provides positive role models for students to promote self discovery, the importance of High School Graduation, development of good values, development of life skills, and individual responsibility in STRIVING for excellence in life.

STRIVE is a partnership among Junior and Senior students trying to make a difference in their lives, parents who are willing to support and encourage their students, high school administrators, faculty and counselors, Rotary Club of Grand Rapids, Rotary Club of Grand Rapids Charities Foundation