Rotary Club Of Grand Rapids

3.09.17 - Dr. Alice Chapman
2017-03-09 12:00 - 13:15 (America/Detroit) | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
EDUCATION
Ph.D., University of Cambridge
• Dissertation Title: “Authority and Power in the Writings of St Bernard of Clairvaux.”
• Degree Emphasis: Ecclesiastical and Intellectual History.
• Degree Received: July 2006.
Master of Arts in Religion, Yale Divinity School
• Degree Emphasis: Church History.
• Degree Received: June 1996.
Bachelor of Arts, Utah State University
• Major: History, emphasis in European History and minor area in Classics.
• Degree Received: June 1991.
BOOK
•Sacred Authority and Temporal Power in the Writings of Bernard of Clarivaux, Medieval
Church Series, 25. Turnhout: Brepols Publishers (October 2013).
ARTICLES
• “Ideal and Reality: Images of a Bishop in Bernard of Clairvaux’s Advice to Eugenius III
(1145-53).” In Envisioning the Bishop Images and the Episcopacy in the Middle Ages Edited by Evan
Gatti and Sigrid Danielson. Medieval Church Series 29. Turnhout: Brepols Publishers (2014) 331-346.
• “Disentangling Potestas in the Works of St Bernard of Clairvaux.” Revista Portuguesa De
Filosofia 60 no. 3 (2004): 587–600.
• “Authority and Power in the Writings of St Bernard of Clairvaux.” Cîteaux Commentarii
Cistercienses 54 no. 3–4 (2003): 209–223.
• “Authority and Power in the Writings of St Bernard of Clairvaux: Summary of a Thesis in
Progress.” Monastic Research Bulletin 8 (2002): 46–48.
BOOK REVIEWS
• “Bernard of Clairvaux Theologian of the Cross by Anthony N.S. Lane.” Cîteaux commentarii
cistercienses (submitted).
• “Shaping Church Law around the Year 1000. The Decretum of Burchard of Worms by Greta Austin.”
Ecclesiastical Law Journal 14 (May 2012): 297-299.
• “Bishops, Texts and the use of Canon law around 1100: Essays in honor of Martin Brett, Bruce
C. Braisington and Kathleen G. Cushing, eds. Ecclesiastical Law Journal 12 (May 2010): 245-248.
• “Leadership in Medieval English Nunneries by Valerie Spear.” Ecclesiastical Law Journal 9
(January 2007): 130-131.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
• Associate Professor, History Department, Grand Valley State University, 2008 – ongoing.
• Visiting Lecturer, Department of History, Utah State University, 2005–2008.
Relevant University Courses Taught:
Introduction to European Civilizations (HST102). A general education course covering the later
Middle Ages to the present emphasizing the interaction of political, social, economic, intellectual
and cultural factors that influenced the formation of Europe.
European Civilization to the Later Middle Ages (HST 207). This class is an historical survey
focusing on the development of European civilization from Classical Greece to the Later Middle
Ages. This course explores the intellectual, social, religious, political and cultural aspects of
the formation of Europe; designed for majors who will take upper-division course in European
history.
Faith and Power in Medieval Europe (HST 200). This course provides skills for the historian.
Students develop research skills in order to produce solid pieces of written work; they are engaged
in critical analysis of both primary and secondary texts.
Medieval Europe (HST 355). This upper-division course focuses on the cultural, religious and
political systems of medieval Europe with an emphasis in the high Middle Ages. The course asks
students to think critically and challenges them to reconsider existing notions and preconceptions
about this period in European history. The course is reading and writing intensive.
Controversies and Change in Medieval Europe (HST 495). This course is designed as the capstone
of the history major. The class focuses on historiography, use of primary sources and critical
assessment of documents, and requires a substantial undergraduate research paper as the culmination
of the degree.
Making of Europe (HNR 217-218 and 227-228). This is a two-year course, team- taught by four
professors representing various disciplines in the Humanities. This Honors College class focuses on
Europe from the 4th century C.E. to 1500. Among the four professors, I teach the history portion of
the class.
History of Christianity (HST 4230). An upper-division course focusing on the history of
Christian thought and the various movements within Christianity from its origins to the present.
The course is reading and writing intensive.
AWARDS, HONORS/ APPOINTMENTS
• Collegeville Institute, Visiting Scholar, St John’s University, Collegeville, Minnesota, Winter 2015.
• Pew Teaching Excellence Award, 2012. Grand Valley State University.
• Studium Scholar, Visiting Scholars Program, Saint Benedict’s Monastery, 2011 and 2015
• Nominated for, “Outstanding Service to First-Year Students,” Utah State University, October 2006.
• Graduate Representative to the Faculty of Divinity, University of Cambridge, 2001–2002.
• Outstanding Student of the Year, Department of History, Utah State University, 1990 –1991.
• President of Phi Alpha Theta, Utah State University, 1990–1991.
• Vice-President of Phi Alpha Theta, Utah State University, 1989–1990.
• Distinguished Service Award, Utah State University, 1989–1990.
• Academic All American, National Collegiate Athletics Association, Utah State 1987-1989.
• Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholar, University of Cambridge, Clare College, 1999-2000.
SELECT ACADEMIC PAPERS/ PRESENTATIONS
• “The Medieval Roots of the Christus Medicus in Martin Luther.”
• Beyond Oberman: Luther and the Middle Ages (Northwestern U.) November 2016.
• “Double Leprosy of the Heart: Spiritual Sickness and Wellness in Bernard of Clarivaux.” International Medieval Congress, Leeds, July 2015.
• “Unam Sanctam and Bernard of Clairvaux.” International Medieval Congress, Leeds, England, July 2014.
• “Avoiding the Persona Mixta in Bernard of Clairvaux.” Center for Medieval and Renaissance
Studies, Saint Louis University, 2014.
• “Power, Dominion and Papal Authority: Bernard of Clairvaux’s Legacy.” International Medieval
Congress, Leeds, England, July 2013.
• “Auctoritas in Bernard of Clairvaux and Gratian.” The XIV International Congress of Medieval
Canon Law, St Michael’s, University of Toronto, August 2012.
• “Right Order and Reform, Bernard of Clairvaux and the Twelfth Century.” International Medieval
Congress, Kalamazoo, May 2012.
• “From Cistercian Abbot to Pope: Bernard of Clairvaux’s Advice to Eugenius III (1145 1153).”
International Medieval Congress, Kalamazoo, May 2011.
• “Looking Straight into the Light: Hildegard of Bingen and Bernard of Clairvaux.” University of
Mannheim, Germany, May 12, 2009. Invited lecture.
• “Teaching Medieval Latin to Classicists.” Utah Classical Association, University of Utah, March
2005. Invited lecture.
• “Authority and Power in St Bernard of Clairvaux.” International Medieval Congress, Leeds,
England, July 2003.
• “The Relationship between Auctoritas and Potestas in the Work of St Bernard of Clairvaux.”
Church History Seminar, University of Cambridge, May 2003.
• “The Lactations of St Bernard of Clairvaux, Spiritual Images of Contemplation.” Clare College
Graduate Research Forum, University of Cambridge, February 2002. Invited lecture.
• “St Bernard of Clairvaux: Letters and Correspondence.” Bolton Abbey, Cistercian monastery,
Moone, Ireland, March 2000. Invited lecture.
• “The History of the Rosary: Prayer Beads and Worship.” Lecture series, “Mary Through the
Centuries.” Yale University, May 1996.
• “The ■ and  Controversy at The Council of Chalcedon: History and Language.” Presented at the
Seven Ecumenical Councils Seminar. Yale University, December 1995.
• “Protestant Lenten Eating Habits in Elizabethan England.” Elizabethan England Conference,
University of Utah, May 1991.
LANGUAGES
• Latin, 8 years (Classical 3, Medieval 5, reading knowledge)
• Certificate, Latin Summer School in Rome, Fr. Reginald Foster, O.C.D.
• Greek, 4 years (Classical 3, Biblical, 1)
• Spanish, 6 years (reading and speaking knowledge)
• German, 2 years (reading knowledge and some speaking knowledge)
• French, 2 years (moderate reading knowledge)
• Hebrew, 1 year (reference knowledge only)
SERVICE
• Undergraduate Research Committee, Grand Valley State University, 2015-.
• Student Scholars Day Committee, 2012- present.
• Faculty Advisor, Phi Alpha Theta, Grand Valley State University, 2010- present.
• Faculty Advisor, Theta Club (Undergraduate History Club), Grand Valley State, 2009- present.
• Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship Interview Committee for Grand Rapids, 2011- present.
• Scholarship Day, “The Honors Advantage” address to parents and students; Awards of
Distinction Scholarship Competitions interviewer, December 2010; January 15 and 22; 2011.
• Scholarship and Awards Committee, Department of History, Grand Valley State, 2011.
• Fellowship Liaison from History to the Office of Fellowships, 2010- ongoing.
• “Titivillus, Patron Demon of Scribes.” Invited lecture for Phi Alpha Theta, Delta-Xi Chapter,
Utah State University, October 2006 and 2007.
• Department of History Graduate Committee, 2006 –2008.
• Medieval and Early Modern Studies Committee, 2005 – 2008.
• Religious Studies Committee, 2006 – 2008.
• Bullen Essay Prize Committee, 2005.
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
• Episcopus Society
• Medieval Academy of America
• Phi Alpha Theta
OTHER RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
• Clare College Library Evening Invigilator, University of Cambridge, 2000–2003. Duties included
checking out books, managing reserves, and acting as evening manager of the library.
• Idaho Health Sciences Library Assistant: Idaho State University, Pocatello, Idaho, 1992–1993.
Duties included locating medical articles requested by doctors and delivering articles to local
hospitals.
• Graduate Student Tutorial Supervisor and Periodicals Desk Employee: Boston College, Boston,
Massachusetts, 1991–1992. Duties included scheduling and overseeing appointments between graduate
student tutors and their undergraduate students.
• Dilettante Society Clare College, 1999–2003. Academic lecture series.
• Peace Caucus, Yale University, 1993–1996.
• Woman’s Center Member, Yale University, 1993–1996.
• Track and Field Athlete, NCAA Division I, Utah State University, 1986–1989.

3.2.17 - Doug Small
2017-03-02 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Mr. Douglas “Doug” Small is President & Chief Executive Officer for Experience Grand Rapids, the Convention & Visitors Bureau. Small began his tenure with the organization on September 8, 2008. Small has acquired thirty-three years of experience in the hospitality, tourism and destination marketing industries; specifically working for several large-to-midsize destination marketing organizations throughout the country.
Experience Grand Rapids provides destination marketing and visitor services for the Greater Grand Rapids region. This non-profit, private corporation operates with an annual budget of $10 million generated through private and public partnerships.
With a primary mission of economic development through the attraction of tourists and conventions to the area, its’ staff of 29 full-time industry professionals provide public relations, marketing, sales and visitor services to accomplish its’ mission of increasing “new” revenues for Kent County and the Greater Grand Rapids region.
Since Small’s arrival to Grand Rapids in 2008, hotel performance has seen record level attainments in room revenue and occupancy for seven consecutive years. Upon Small’s arrival, annual hotel occupancy stood at 48% and currently is out-pacing the national average at 66.7%. During this same period, hotel room revenue grew from $96 million to $197 million in 2016.
Previous to his current role in Grand Rapids, Small served as Senior Vice President for VISIT DENVER. Prior to Denver, Small served as President of the Syracuse (NY) Convention Bureau and in sales and marketing capacities for destination marketing organizations in Palm Springs (CA) and Dayton (OH).
Small’s community and industry involvement includes serving on the board of directors for the Economic Club of Grand Rapids (Executive Committee), the Downtown Market Grand Rapids, Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association, West Michigan Sports Commission and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc.
Small is a 1982 graduate of Siena Heights College (Adrian, Michigan) where he majored in Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management. While at Siena Heights, Small was also a two-time, national championship qualifier as a record-setting collegiate track and field athlete, competing in the high jump.
A native of Napoleon, Ohio; Small and his wife Kimberly, have two children; Alexandra and Davidson and reside in Grand Rapids Township, Michigan.

2.23.17 - Honoarable William B. Murphy
2017-02-23 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Judge William B. Murphy, of the Michigan Court of Appeals, has been elected president of the Council of Chief Judges of the State Courts of Appeal (CCJSCA), a national association dedicated to improving the administration of justice in state appellate courts. He will serve a one-year term, which commenced during the conference’s 37th annual meeting in Cary, North Carolina.
Judge Murphy has served as judge for the Michigan Court of Appeals since 1988. He has also been an adjunct professor at Western Michigan Thomas M. Cooley Law School since 2011.
Among Judge Murphy’s judicial duties, he was elected to the State Bar of Michigan Board of Commissioners, District C, (2001-10); elected to the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission (1995-2003); elected to the Board of Trustees of the Michigan State Bar Foundation; selected by the Michigan Supreme Court to the Michigan delegation to the National Conference on Racial and Ethnic Bias (1995); chosen by the Michigan Supreme Court to the Judicial Executive Committee and Strategic Planning Committee for the Michigan Justice Project (1994); elected chief judge pro tem for the Michigan Court of Appeals (1992-96); and was appointed Chief Judge of the Michigan Court of Appeals by the Michigan Supreme Court (2009-2015) on three occasions.
Judge Murphy has received several awards, including the Michigan Association for Justice Judicial Excellence Award and the National Center for State Courts Distinguished Service Award, both in 2015.
Judge Murphy is currently a member of the State Bar of Michigan and Grand Rapids Bar Association.
Judge Murphy was an adjunct professor at Michigan State University-Detroit College of Law from 1997-98. He was the founding partner at Murphy, Burns and McInerney, P.C., a civil and criminal trial practice firm in Grand Rapids, Michigan, from 1973-88. Shortly after graduating with a juris doctor from Wayne State University Law School (1970), he served as a law clerk for the Michigan Court of Appeals (1970-71) and was an attorney at Rhoades, McKee and Boer in Grand Rapids, Michigan (1971-73).

2.17.17 - Volunteer Opportunity
2017-02-17 13:00 - 15:00 | Feeding America West Michigan, 3070 Shaffer Ave SE, Kentwood, Michigan, 49512
You will be participating in food distribution and repackaging efforts at Feeding America’s West Michigan facility from 1:00pm-3:00pm.
We need 10-12 volunteers
Please contact the Rotary office at rotary@grrotary.org or 616-459-5640 if you would like to volunteer.

What Does Feeding America West Michigan Do?

Feeding America West Michigan exists to ensure safe food is available to the hungry in our community. In 2016, we distributed a record 28.9 million pounds of food, the equivalent of 24 million meals.This food comes from hundreds of farmers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers that have edible food they can’t sell because of overruns, order errors, misprints, and other unexpected occurrences.
We distribute that reclaimed food to pantries, shelters, after-school programs, and other anti-hunger agencies in 40 Michigan counties.
Nearly 1,100 agencies use Feeding America West Michigan to provide food to an estimated 492,100 people every year. We also send food directly to people in need through our local Mobile Food Pantry Program.
For every dollar donated to our organization, we can provide 4 meals to people in need. A gift of just $21 can feed a family of four for a week.

2.16.17 - Volunteer Opportunity
2017-02-16 16:00 - 18:00 | Access of West Michigan, 1700 28th St, Grand Rapids, 49508
You will be participating in Access of West Michigan’s hunger simulation workshop with area youth. The first hour will be dedicated to training the Rotarian volunteers and the second hour will allow you to serve as a group facilitator.
We need 8 to 10 volunteers.
To volunteer contact the Rotary office at rotary@grrotary.org or at 616-459-5640.
Located in the Christian Reformed Church office building on the corner of 28th St and Kalamazoo – NOTE: Volunteers should enter through the main doors facing 28th Street.

ABOIUT ACCESS OF WEST MICHIGAN
OUR MISSION

Celebrating the activity of God in our midst, Access strengthens and develops wholistic solutions to poverty by cultivating equitable systems through education and collaboration.

OUR HISTORY

Access of West Michigan began 1981 in response to federal government cutbacks for social services programs. We were asked by local stakeholders to create a central coordination of services in order to prevent duplication and maximize resources.

2.16.17 - Carol Paine-McGovern
2017-02-16 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Carol Paine-McGovern is Executive Director of the Kent School Services Network, KSSN. KSSN is a community school initiative in Kent County Michigan partnering with 39 schools in 8 school districts and 4 programs at the Kent Intermediate School District. Previous employment included President of the Paine Family Foundation, working as Manager for the Kent County Healthy Start Program as well as a consultant for the Frey and Nokomis Foundations.
Prior to moving to Michigan Carol worked as an Education Policy Analyst for the Oklahoma State House of Representatives and as Nutrition Coordinator for the Oklahoma State Health Department. Carol also served four years with the National Health Service Corps in rural West Virginia.
Carol is a former school board member of the East Grand Rapids Public Schools and was recently appointed by Governor Snyder to the Early Childhood Investment Corporation. She has held board positions on the Council of Michigan Foundations Board, School Community Health Alliance of Michigan, Center for Community Leadership, GROW, and the East Grand Rapids Library Commission. Carol holds a B.S. from Michigan State University and a M.P.H. from the University of Minnesota.

2.13-17 - Volunteer Opportunity
2017-02-13 15:00 - 17:00 | Ronald McDonald House, 1323 Cedar St NE, Grand Rapids, 49503, United States
You will be making and serving dinner for the residents at Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan from 4:00pm-6:00pm. We need 4 volunteers. Our contact will be Jim Siegel. Please let me Rotary office know if you would like to volunteer at rotary@grrotary.org or by calling 616-459-5640.
About the Ronald McDonal House

Mission
“To provide a “home away from home” for families of children traveling to Grand Rapids for their child’s medical or mental health treatment.”
History
The first Ronald McDonald House opened in Philadelphia in 1974. Since then more than 350 Houses have been licensed around the world … all have the common mission of providing a “home away from home” for the families of children seeking medical or mental health treatment.
The Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan (RMHWM) opened on March 23, 1990. The 19,000 square foot facility was designed specifically as a Ronald McDonald House. Located on five park-like acres, the House has seventeen bedrooms with private baths; two are isolation equipped and three are handicap accessible. Common rooms include a large family-style kitchen with four complete cooking areas, a dining room, great room with fireplace, sitting room, sunroom overlooking a playground area and walking path, a laundry room, children’s play house, and recreation room.

Volunteer Opportunity - Ronald McDonald House
2017-02-12 15:00 - 17:00 | Ronald McDonald House, 1323 Cedar St NE, Grand Rapids, 49503, United States
You will be making individual cheesecakes for the residents at Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan beginning at 3:00pm. We need 2-4 volunteers. Our contact will be Jim Siegel. Please let me Rotary office know if you would like to volunteer at rotary@grrotary.org or by calling 616-459-5640.
About the Ronald McDonal House

Mission
“To provide a “home away from home” for families of children traveling to Grand Rapids for their child’s medical or mental health treatment.”
History
The first Ronald McDonald House opened in Philadelphia in 1974. Since then more than 350 Houses have been licensed around the world … all have the common mission of providing a “home away from home” for the families of children seeking medical or mental health treatment.
The Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan (RMHWM) opened on March 23, 1990. The 19,000 square foot facility was designed specifically as a Ronald McDonald House. Located on five park-like acres, the House has seventeen bedrooms with private baths; two are isolation equipped and three are handicap accessible. Common rooms include a large family-style kitchen with four complete cooking areas, a dining room, great room with fireplace, sitting room, sunroom overlooking a playground area and walking path, a laundry room, children’s play house, and recreation room.

2.09.17 - Dr. Norman Beauchamp
2017-02-09 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Norman J. Beauchamp Jr, MD, MHS, became dean of the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine in October 2016.
Prior to his MSU appointment, Dr. Beauchamp was a professor and chairperson of the Department of Radiology at the University of Washington, a position he assumed in 2002. While there, he served as vice chairperson and chairperson of the University of Washington Faculty Senate, was president of the clinical practice of 1,600 physicians employed by the university, and was medical director of the Seattle/King County Clinic, which provided dental, vision and medical care to thousands of low-income and uninsured patients. Dr. Beauchamp also served as professor of neurological surgery and industrial and systems engineering at UW.
Dr. Beauchamp received his Bachelor of Science degree from Michigan State University and was selected as one of MSU’s top 25 of 10,000 undergraduate students. He received his Master of Health Science degree from the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health.
As the second College of Human Medicine graduate to become dean, Dr. Beauchamp spent his last two years of medical school in Grand Rapids and subsequently completed his surgical internship at Blodgett Hospital and Saint Mary’s Hospital.
After completing his residency in radiology, and two fellowships, neuroradiology and interventional neuroradiology, at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Dr. Beauchamp joined the faculty in 1996. While at Johns Hopkins, he served as vice chairperson and interim chairperson of clinical operations.
As a diagnostic neuroradiologist and neurointerventional radiologist, Dr. Beauchamp focused on developing improved ways to prevent, predict, diagnose and treat patients suffering from stroke. He directed the National Institutes of Health-funded Epidemiologic Studies Image Analysis Center at Johns Hopkins and UW, which included nearly 6,000 study participants.
An influential scientist and national leader in the radiology community, Dr. Beauchamp has received numerous awards for his research and has published more than 100 peer-reviewed papers. His research focuses on developing advanced MRI imaging techniques to extend the treatment window for acute ischemic stroke and to identify risk predictors for stroke and dementia.
Dr. Beauchamp is chair of the International Outreach Committee of the American Roentgen Ray Society and on the board of directors of the Society of Chairs of Academic Radiology Departments and is past president of both of those organizations. He was chairperson of the Radiology Research Alliance, the Coalition for Bioimaging Research and the American Radiology Education Committee.
Among his many honors, Dr. Beauchamp was presented the outstanding faculty teaching award in radiology at Johns Hopkins three times. In 2016, he received the University of Washington’s David B. Thorud Leadership Award.

2.02.17 - Dr. Gleaves Whitney
2017-02-02 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Gleaves Whitney became the first full-time director of Grand Valley State University’s Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies in 2003. During his tenure, he has been the architect of more than 400 public programs, including four national conferences covered by C-SPAN and four internationally webcast debates — one to more than 3,500 viewers in 18 countries, and another watched on YouTube by nearly two million people in some 30 nations on all six inhabited continents. He has overseen the tremendous growth of the Hauenstein Center’s website, which has been visited more than 30 million times; its original programs have been viewed a cumulative 27 years. He’s also premiered a popular web column called Ask Gleaves — the first presidential Q & A column in the nation — and created a leadership academy for students and young professionals committed to public service.
Under his direction, the Hauenstein Center’s Peter C. Cook Leadership Academy has emerged as a preeminent center of leadership excellence in the Midwest. Cook Leadership Fellows have been face-to-face with four U.S. presidents, three first ladies, two vice presidents, four secretaries of state, six state governors, numerous business and nonprofit executives, multiple Pulitzer Prize-winning writers, the world’s most decorated academic, a Grammy Award winner, and a national championship basketball coach.
“Gleaves Whitney is a real treasure for those of us who do presidential studies and work in the field of presidential history,” said award-winning biographer H. W. Brands. “He’s also one of the most effective entrepreneurs in the business of higher education. You can tell this by the growth of the Hauenstein Center over the years that he’s been the director.”
“Gleaves Whitney and his energetic team at the Hauenstein Center have become, in a remarkably short time, a force to reckon with — and learn from — in the presidential studies field,” said historian Richard Norton Smith. “The Hauenstein Center is a jewel in the crown of Michigan.”
Prior to his arrival at Grand Valley, Gleaves worked 11 years in Michigan Governor John Engler’s administration, serving as senior writer, chief speechwriter, and historian. In 1993, the Governor assigned him to a task force that helped bring sweeping education and school finance reforms to Michigan that the New York Times called “the most dramatic in the nation.” In 2001 he helped the Governor establish Michigan’s Department of History, Arts, and Libraries.
In addition to his public-sector service and work, Gleaves is a scholar who writes and lectures nationally on a variety of historical topics. He is author or editor of 15 books including most recently To Heal a Nation: The Story of Gerald R. Ford, and (with Mark Rozell) Testing the Limits: George W. Bush and the Imperial Presidency. Other books include Religion and the Presidency (with Mark Rozell), Religion and the Bush Presidency (also with Mark Rozell), American Presidents: Farewell Addresses to the Nation, 1796-2001; John Engler: The Man, the Leader & the Legacy; and 6 volumes of Messages of the Governors of Michigan. He even has a children’s book to his credit, B is for Buckaroo: A Cowboy Alphabet (with Louise Whitney). Moreover, Gleaves has contributed chapters to half-dozen books and written entries in two encyclopedias. In 2011 he partnered with M. W. Grass Strategic Communications and Meijer Inc. President Hendrik Meijer to produce a two-hour documentary on Michigan’s famous senator, broadcast on PBS in December of that year. Several of his talks have appeared on C-SPAN; his commentary has appeared in numerous newspapers, magazines, and journals; and he has been interviewed by, among others, The New York Times, CNN, MSNBC, ABC, FOX News, Newsweek, US News & World Report, and NPR and its affiliates.
Gleaves has won numerous awards and served on several committees. In 2012-’13, he served as the principal investigator and hosted two programs funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities to explore the historical roots of bipartisan leadership. In 2008, Gleaves and a Hauenstein Center team were awarded a Russell Mawby fellowship to examine the connection between philanthropy and the American presidency. In 2009, he was appointed by Michigan’s Governor to the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Committee, a two-year effort charged with helping the state celebrate our 16th president’s contributions to Michigan and the nation. In addition, Gleaves is a senior scholar at the Center for the American Idea in Houston, Texas; the first senior fellow at the Russell Kirk Center for Cultural Renewal in Mecosta, Michigan; and a member of the College of Fellows at the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology in Berkeley, California.
While director of the Hauenstein Center, he was recognized by the Michigan Council for the Social Studies as an “outstanding mentor,” and was awarded its prestigious Mel Miller Mentoring Award for 2009. In 2010 he was inducted into the national leadership organization ODK (Omicron Delta Kappa). In 2011 he established the Gleaves Whitney Fellowship at the Hauenstein Center’s Cook Leadership Academy. In 1984 he received Colorado State University’s Distinguished Alumni Award. Moreover, he has served on the boards of the Michigan Humanities Counsel, Arthur Vandenberg Memorial Committee, Michigan State Historical Records, and Historical Society for the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan. He has also cultivated many institutional partnerships – e.g., with the National Park Service, Houston Museum of Natural Science, Gerald R. Ford Foundation and Presidential Library and Museum, Russell Kirk Center — and numerous ongoing professional partnerships — e.g., with H. W. Brands, Richard Norton Smith, George Nash, and other historians of note.
Gleaves graduated with honors from Colorado State University (1980), was elected into the Phi Beta Kappa honor society (1980), and was a Fulbright scholar to then-West Germany (1984-85). His master’s degree and doctoral candidacy were at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where he was a Richard M. Weaver fellow (1987-88) and an H. B. Earhart Fellow (1988-91). He has taught at the University of Michigan, Colorado State University, Droste-Hülshof Gymnasium, Aquinas College, and Grand Valley State University. In 2006, he received the honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from the Graduate Theological Union’s Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology in Berkeley, California.
Gleaves was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and now makes his home in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with his wife, Mary Eilleen.

Donating Items for the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans
2017-01-26 12:00 - 13:30 | Rotary Club of Grand Rapids, 1345 Monroe Ave NW Suite 307, Grand Rapids, MI, 49505, United States
Wish List Drive for the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. We will collect donations for the wish list (see below) at our Thursday luncheons. Roatian Jessica Scalabrino will deliver the collected donations after the 2/16 luncheon. We will also be signing Thank you cards through the 2/16 luncheon as well.
Please take a moment and stop by the table and sign the Thank You cards.
Donations made be brought to our Rotary luncheons or dropped off at the Rotary office at 1345 Monroe Ave NW, Suite 204.
VETERANS WISH LIST
Bolded Items Needed the Most

Coffee K-Cups
Candy Bars: Fun or Full Size
Individual Sized Variety Chips
Book of U.S. Postage Stamps (Forever stamps)
BIC Lighters
Batteries (AAA, C) (Alkaline)
Polident and Fixodent Denture Adhesive
Men’s Body Spray: Power Stick Brand (available @ Dollar Tree)
Men’s Body Wash: Power Stick Brand or White Rain 3 in 1 (available @ Dollar Tree)
Alcohol Free Mouthwash Binaca (Blue) or Close Up (Red) (available @ Dollar Tree)
Arm & Hammer Spinbrush Battery Powered Toothbrushes (Soft)
3 Head Electric Razors (New)
Disposable Razors (3 or more blades preferred)
DVD’s (New Movie Releases)
Large Print Books Only (Science Fiction, Suspense, Romance)
Word Search Books (Large Print Only)
Small Boom Box with CD player
DVD/Blue Ray Players
AM/FM Radio/Alarms
Large Headphones (No Ear Buds)
Watches (Digital, Regular and Talking)
Diabetic Sock: All Sizes
Velcro Tennis Shoes: (Sizes 8-12)
Button Up Long Sleeve Cardigan Sweater: (M – 4X)
Quilted Flannel Shirts: (L – 4X)
Sweat Suits: (L – 5X)
Sweat Pants: (2X – 5X) (Heavy and Light Weight)
White T-Shirts: (S – 5X)
Colored Pocket T-Shirts: (XL – 4X)
Men’s Briefs: (3X-5X)
Men’s Boxer Briefs: (M-2XL)
Baseball Hats: Military or Team Logo

1.26.17 - Leslie Bellavance
2017-01-26 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Leslie Bellavance was named President of Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University in July of 2015. She concurrently holds the office of Vice President of Ferris State University. She previously served as Dean of the School of Art and Design in the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University and before that as a professor of art and the Director of the School of Art and Art History at James Madison University in Virginia. She was also a member of the faculty of the Department of Visual Art in the Peck School of the Arts at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Her work has been widely exhibited in the United States and Europe. She was awarded a residency for her book, analemmic, which was published by Nexus Press in Atlanta, Georgia. President Bellavance has also been active in program development and as a curator for alternative art centers such as West Hubbard Gallery in Chicago, Woodland Pattern Book Center in Milwaukee, and the Walker’s Point Art Center in Milwaukee. She has written and lectured extensively on contemporary art. Her articles, essays, and reviews have been published in such journals as Sculpture Magazine, Art Papers, and The New Art Examiner.
President Bellavance currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and as a member of the Executive Board of the National Council of Arts Administrators (NCAA). She served for four years on the Board of Directors for the College Art Association (CAA).
President Bellavance received a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Chicago, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Tyler School of Art at Temple University in Philadelphia.

1.19.17 - Michael Sytsma
2017-01-19 12:00 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States

1.12.17 - Stefan Jovinge, MD, PhD
2017-01-12 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Dr. Jovinge received his M.D. (1991) and his Ph.D. (1997) from Karolinska Institute in Stockholm. He served as a research fellow at Cedars-Sinai Hospital UCLA (1997–1999). After completing his internship, residencies, and fellowships, he become a critical care cardiologist. Dr. Jovinge was the Medical Director of the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Scania University Hospital, Lund, Sweden (2008–2013). Since December 31, 2013, he has been a critical care cardiologist at Spectrum Health and the Medical Director of research at the Frederik Meijer Heart and Vascular Institute; Professor at Van Andel Research Institute (VARI), and director of the DeVos Cardiovascular Research Program (a joint effort between VARI and Spectrum Health). Dr. Jovinge also serves as a professor at Michigan State University and is a consulting professor at the Cardiovascular Institute at Stanford University.
Our work is focused on the sickest heart patients, the ones that has a heart so week that it doesn’t suffice for the basic needs of the body even when in bed at rest. We are investigating for the possibility to optimize the treatment of these but also investigating the possibility of generate new heart muscle.

1.05.17 - Dr. Paul Isley
2017-01-05 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Dr. Paul Isely is currently the associate dean of the Seidman College of Business. He had been chair of the Economics Department from 2009 until January 2015. He joined the GVSU faculty in 1995, after earning his Ph.D. in Economics from Purdue University. He also holds an M.S. in Economics from Purdue University and a dual B.S. in Physics and Economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Dr. Isely has taught many different courses at GVSU including: Environmental Economics which looks at sustainable and efficient resource usage; Business Cycles and Growth which studies the national and regional economies; and Economics Capstone which teaches modeling by using housing data from West Michigan. His academic research builds from these classes and focuses on the benefits of innovation.
Dr. Isely’s research interests have also led to many local articles and reports. These articles have explored West Michigan’s economy and its relationship to the National and State Economies. Recent studies resulted in reports on the state of Entrepreneurship and Healthcare in West Michigan. In addition, Dr. Isely has worked on reports evaluating wind power along the lakeshore and valuing environmental cleanup in Muskegon Lake, these studies were funded by Sea Grant and NOAA respectively.
Dr. Isely has been interviewed extensively by TV, radio, and newspapers on the West Michigan economy. Over the past few years these interviews included not only local media, but also NPR, USA today, and the AP wire.

Service Above Selfie Contest - 2017
2017-01-02 | Rotary Club of Grand Rapids, 1345 Monroe Ave NW Suite 307, Grand Rapids, MI, 49505, United States
SNAP A SELFIE AND JOIN THE ROTARY CLUB OF GRAND RAPIDS IN BOOSTING COMMUNITY SERVICE!
Rotary is about helping our communities and families in need through community service – Now there’s a fun way to put extra money behind those efforts. Here’s how it works. When you participate in a community service project between January 1 and March 1, 2017, take a “selfie” and post it on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn with the hashtag #sasgr or #rotarygr. Rotary – Grand Rapids will share the photos at www.serviceselfie.com and pick a list of finalists in early March. The top three choices will receive a cash prize that will be donated to the nonprofit group hosting the community service event.

How It Works:
1. Volunteer at your favorite local nonprofit event
2. Snap a selfie of you or your group in action
3. Post the photo on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn with the hashtag #sasgr or #rotarygr. To ensure that we receive your entry, please either post your photo as a “public” photo under your privacy settings or tag the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids in your post.
4. Tell your friends to share and like your post! The more your post is shared the greater your chance of winning!

AWARDS FOR ORGANIZATIONS:
Miller Johnson 1st Place – $5,000
2nd Place – $2,000
3rd Place – $1,000

Winners will be announced at the Service Above Self event on March 22, 2017!
See more at: http://www.serviceselfie.com/
Read our flyer: 2017 Service Above Selfie Flyer

See our video: https://www.facebook.com/grrotary/videos/10155631160013356/

Thank you for our $5,000 1st Place Sponsor:

12.29.16 - No luncheon - New Year's recognition
2016-12-29 12:00 - 13:15

12.22.16 - Week of Christmas - No Luncheon
2016-12-22 12:00 - 13:15
The Rotary office will be closed from Dec. 23rd – Jan. 2nd.

Senior Neighbors Holiday Luncheon
2016-12-19 00:00 - 14:00 | Kuyper College, 3333 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, MI, 49525, United States
The Rotary Club of Grand Rapids is collaborating with Senior Neighbors Inc. again this hear to host the Rotary’s Annual Senior Neighbors Holiday Luncheon on Monday, December 19th in the dining hall at Kuyper College.
We will be looking for volunteers to serve a delicious sit-down lunch to 200 low income seniors (many of whom are members of the Grand Rapids Senior Neighbors Center and local senior living facilities).
This annual Rotary Club of Grand Rapids service project is always eagerly anticipated by area seniors and is already completely “sold out”!
In addition to the lunch served by Rotarians, seniors are provided with a gift bag filled with basic essentials, treats, and items donated by long-time Rotarian Alan Abraham of S. Abraham & Sons. Seniors area also entered into drawings for gifts donated by Rotary members that are given to the lucky winners as holiday presents.

Bob Barnes, Senior Neighbors Inc. President and also a member of the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids has said “We are honored to collaborate with the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids and greatly appreciate all that the Rotarians do each year to serve area at-risk seniors. This is a wonderful gift to older adults that often don’t have the opportunity to celebrate the holidays in this sort of setting.”
We hope you will join us as a volunteer for this fun and deeply enriching event.
A few photos from last year’s event.

James Carey and the Great Lakes Chorus
2016-12-15 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Jamie Carey has a degree in Vocal Music Education and a Masters degree from Michigan State University. His choral directing and vocal coaching experience spans over 30 years.
Jamie started his barbershop directing career by developing and chartering the Cadillac Interlakes Chorus in 1985. In 1993 he became director of the Lansing Capital City Chordsmen and led them to 2 district championships in 1996 and 1999. In 2000 Jamie began directing the Great Lakes Chorus. Under his direction the Great Lakes Chorus quickly won the district championship and appeared 3 consecutive times at the International Competition in 2000, 2001 & 2002. Jamie retired as director of the Great Lakes Chorus at the end of 2002 to concentrate on coaching and his family.
Jamie is also an experienced quartet singer winning 4 district championships as a lead singer. Full Chord Press in 1993, Firepower in 1995, Dexters Alibi in 2011 in the Southwest District and most recently with Majestyx in 2012. Jamie has also competed at the International level with Full Chord Press in 1993, three times with Firepower in 1995, 1996 and 1998 and most recently qualified for the International competition with Majestyx in 2013, 2014 and 2015. Jamie has also coached numerous choruses and quartets to district championships over the years. In addition to coaching, he teaches a performance singing/vowel class and has worked with both the South West and Pioneer Districts sharing this class with choruses, quartets and at district sponsored events.
In January of 2014 Jamie returned once again to direct The Great Lakes Chorus in Grand Rapids. Since returning the Great Lakes chorus has won the Pioneer District Chorus Championship, qualified to represent the district at International competition in Pittsburg 2015 most recently qualified to represent the Pioneer District in the International competition in the summer of 2106 in Nashville, Tennessee.
Although Jamie has obtained many accolades, the accomplishment he is most proud of is getting both his sons involved in barbershop. His older son Jay (25) sings with Great Northern Union in Minneapolis and is the Bass of “Vocal Fury” and Jamie’s youngest son Cole sings with “The Voice” youth chorus and is a front row member of the Great Lakes Chorus.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqmZnzD6Oqc

About The Great Lakes Mens Chorus
The Grand Rapids Chapter of Barbershop Singers began almost 70 years ago in 1947. At the first ever International Championship in Detroit in 1953, the Great Lakes Chorus was named Champion. Since that time The Great Lakes Chorus has continued its legacy as a championship chorus. They have been crowned District Champions 12 times and have represented the State of Michigan’s Pioneer District 20 times at the International Contest.
The Great Lakes Chorus is made up of men from all walks of life and varying ages from 14 to 82. There is no need to read music, just be a singer! The chorus rehearses weekly in Grand Rapids, but includes members from as far away as Indian River, Big Rapids, Muskegon, Kalamazoo, Mt. Pleasant, Lansing and the Detroit Metro area.
Most recently The Great Lakes Men’s barbershop chorus under the direction of Jamie Carey won the right to represent the state of Michigan at the international finals in Nashville 2016. At the contest they achieved the highest score every recorded in the state’s history. Their highly polished and entertaining aceppella performance sparked the audience to a standing ovation.
If you are interested in learning more about the Great Lakes Chorus go to www.greatlakeschorus.org or attend one of our rehearsals on Monday night from 7:00 to 9:00 at the 2nd Congregational Church located at 525 Cheshire Drive NE, Grand Rapids, MI.

Rotarian Business Showcase
2016-12-08 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Members from our Club will be making 2 minute presentations on their businesses.
They will also be providing information (business cards, flyers/brochures and any other handouts) on the chairs of luncheon attendees (plan on arriving by 11:40am to place your items on the chairs).
Participants will be:

Peter Albertini – Keller Williams-Grand Rapids North
Joe Biermacher – Lighthouse Group
Cecilia Cunningham – Aquinas College
Sheri Fazleabas – A&S Signature Journeys
Jim Siegel – Siegel Jewelers
Jeff Swain – Home Watch Care Givers

Teresa Toland
2016-12-01 00:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Presenter: Teresa D. Toland, RN, BBA
Organization: Tandem365
As CEO for Tandem365 I am responsible for a startup business where no blueprint or conditions of participation exist. My 24 years of experience in community health care has prepared me for my role in this new initiative. I have spent the past five years getting to know the health care systems in our community and connecting in a positive way. The success of Tandem365 relies strongly on the ability to understand what health care systems, physicians, payers, patients and caregivers need today and being prepared for a dynamic healthcare industry. I firmly believe that healthcare will continue to fail in the effort to delivery high quality care while at the same time manage the cost of delivering that care. Healthcare providers are confronted every day with situations that challenge them to balance patient needs, insurance demands, and regulatory restrictions and yet produce “quality” driven outcomes. Many American’s will be left on the sideline struggling to make sound choices while attempting to understand a very fragmented complex health system.
Notable Speaking Engagements:
National Association of Home Care – 2008, 2013
Philips Connect2Care – User Conference – 2014, 2015,2016
HealthMedx – 2008, 2009, 2015
Remington Conference- March 2016
Colorado Association of HomeCare – May 2016
Continuing Care at Home – May 2016
Link Conference – June 2016
National PACE Association – Scheduled October 2016
Registered Nurse – 1989
Bachelors in Business – 2001

Thanksgiving - No Luncheon
2016-11-24 12:00 - 13:15

Gernot Runschke
2016-11-17 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Married Anne L. (Lynn) 45 years ago, they live on the eastern shores of Lake Michigan, and have two adult children. Son Jurgen, is an Emergency Room Doctor with Mercy Health Partners in Muskegon, MI. Daughter Kirsten is business owner of an architectural firm, Architektura in Grand Haven MI. Wife Anne is a former K – 8 classroom teacher and high school Guidance counselor of 43 years with Grand Haven Area Public Schools.
Gernot, an architect and graduate from the Architecture School, HTL Detmold Germany, has been practicing architecture for the past 48 years. His work experiences encompass several architectural firms in western Michigan. With his unique European education and great depth of skills in many areas of design, working drawings, construction administration and management, he has worked on many large and medium size projects throughout Michigan.
Gernot has been a Boy Scout leader of Troop 165, the Gerald R. Ford Boy Scout District, for over 12 years. There he served in various capacities in the troop and District level. As troop leader he planned and guided high adventure trips thru-out the USA, the highlight being, a troop adventure with 12 Boys and one adult leader to climb and repel the Grand Teton Peak in the Grand Teton Mountain Range, of Utah.
Faith has been a big part of Gernot’s live. He and his wife Anne have been a member of St Francis De Sales Church in Muskegon, MI for the past 45 years. He served on many committees and boards and has been instrumental in the planning and implementation of many brick and mortar projects, including working with the world renowned architects office of Marcel Breuer in New York.
26 Years ago, Gernot was ask to join a group of likeminded professionals, called Rotarians. He joined the Rotary Club of Grand Haven and has served in a number of different capacities, among them are Club President, Program Chair, Youth Exchange Officer, and Scholarship Committee Chair. He has been an active in fundraising to support local and international serviced projects. Gernot is a member of the District Foundation Committee, the District Grants Review Board and has served for the past 12 years as the District Peace Fellowship Chair. As such, has been able to qualify 3 Peace Fellows and one Peace Scholar. Prior to that, Gernot served on the District selection and interview committee, for Ambassadorial Scholarships

Colonel Mark Tellier
2016-11-10 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Colonel Mark E. Tellier began his military career when he enlisted into the Michigan Army National Guard on 25 May 1988 as Private. Col Tellier graduated from the Federal Officer Candidate School program at Fort Benning, Georgia and commissioned on 16 August 1991 as a Second Lieutenant in the Infantry branch.
His assignments include positions of increasing responsibility at Platoon, Company, Battalion and Brigade command and staff levels, to include aide-de-camp to the Assistant Division Commander for the 38th Infantry Division, Indiana. Multiple non-traditional assignments in support of operations, logistics, and personnel functional areas. In 2012, Col Tellier served a one year tour in Afghanistan as the 126th Cavalry Squadron Commander, Wyoming, MI in support of Afghan National Security Forces and Special Operations Command.
Col Tellier’s current assignment is Director of Information Management, Michigan Army National Guard overseeing information technology requirements in order to acquire and distribute network resources, provide policy, governance, IT services, security and enable trained and ready units supporting Federal and State Missions. Additionally, develop premier leaders in cyber operations delivering innovative technology solutions that protect and defend our nation.
His military decorations include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Michigan Legion of Merit and the National Defense Service Medal, Army Reserve Component Medal, Global War on Terrorism –Expeditionary Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Combat Infantry Badge and numerous State awards. He is enrolled into the United States Army War College and has a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science from Michigan State University.
Col Tellier lives in Ada, MI with his wife Andrea (nei Sherrill) and three children Adam (15), Katherine (14) and Joshua (11).

Sean P. Welsh
2016-11-03 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Sean began his banking career in 1986 with American National Bank & Trust Company of Chicago after graduating from Michigan State University. After completing his credit training, he managed a large portfolio of loans to middle market companies located throughout the Midwest. In 1991 he joined National City’s predecessor bank, First of America. Welsh held several line and management positions with First of America including Vice President & Group Manager; Corporate Banking and Vice President & Group Manager- Investment Real Estate. In addition, as Vice President of Corporate Finance, he was responsible for delivering First of America’s Corporate Finance capabilities to the Michigan, Illinois and Indiana markets.
Sean currently serves as Regional President for the Western Michigan Market. Previously he served as Senior Vice President and Division Manager for National City’s Corporate Banking group in Chicago and Northern Illinois. Sean relocated to Chicago from Kalamazoo in 1998 to establish National City’s Corporate Banking line of business in Chicago.
Sean currently serves on the Boards of The Right Place, Spectrum Health, Southwest Michigan First, YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, Talent 2025 and Economic Club of Grand Rapids. He is married and has three daughters.

Peter Kjome and Marcelo Lehning
2016-10-27 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Peter Kjome has been President and CEO of the Grand Rapids Symphony since returning to the orchestra in 2008. The Symphony is an innovative and dynamic organization recognized nationally for excellence, reaching nearly 200,000 attendees at the concerts and educational programs that the orchestra’s superb musicians perform each year.
Peter previously worked for 3M Company in Saint Paul, Minnesota for eight years. At 3M, he served in a variety of capacities, including strategic planning, marketing, business process improvement, and general management. Before returning to the Symphony, he led strategic planning for the 3M Consumer & Office Business. Prior to that, he was a member of the Grand Rapids Symphony for eight years.
Peter received his master’s degree in business administration from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, majoring in marketing and management & strategy. Kjome received a bachelor’s degree from the Cleveland Institute of Music.
Peter is Immediate Past Chair of the Group 2 orchestras, League of American Orchestras and is a board member of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids and Blandford Nature Center. In 2011, the League of American Orchestras presented Kjome with the Helen M. Thompson award for exceptional leadership in recognition of his work.

Marcelo Lehninger, new Music Director of the Grand Rapids Symphony, is in his first season with the orchestra in 2016-17.
The Brazilian-born conductor recently concluded his fourth and final season as Music Director of the New West Symphony Orchestra, during which he was awarded the 2014 Helen M. Thompson Award for an Emerging Music Director by the League of American Orchestras.
Handpicked by James Levine to join the conducting staff of the Boston Symphony Orchestra in 2010, Lehninger spent five seasons there as Assistant Conductor and later as Associate Conductor. On three days’ notice in 2011, he replaced Levine for performances that included the world premiere of a new violin concerto by Harrison Birtwistle in Boston. With Lehninger on the podium, the BSO repeated the program weeks later in New York City’s Carnegie Hall.
In February 2015, Lehninger first led the Grand Rapids Symphony in a critically acclaimed performance of Antonín Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9 “From the New World.” That season also included debuts with the Detroit and Milwaukee Symphonies and the Rochester Philharmonic plus return engagements with the Florida Orchestra and Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra.
In April 2016, Lehninger returned to DeVos Performance Hall for performances of Ottorino Respighi’s “Pines of Rome.” Last season, Lehninger made debuts with the symphonies of Pittsburgh, North Carolina and Fort Worth in the United States; with the symphonies of Winnipeg and Kitchener-Waterloo in Canada; and with the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France plus return engagements with the Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin and the Minas Gerais Philharmonic in Brazil.
Maestro Lehninger’s 2016-17 season includes first appearances with the symphony orchestras of Sydney and Melbourne in Australia, with the symphonies of Tucson and Portland in the United States, and with Symphony Nova Scotia in Canada.
An alumnus of the National Conducting Institute, Lehninger made a successful debut with the National Symphony Orchestra in 2007 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and was invited to conduct the NSO again in 2008.
During the 2007-08 season, Lehninger served as music advisor of the Youth Orchestra of the Americas, composed of 120 musicians from more than 20 countries with Placido Domingo as artistic advisor. In the summer of 2008, Maestro Lehninger toured with YOA and pianist Nelson Freire in South America, conducting concerts in Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay.
Chosen by Kurt Masur, Lehninger in 2008 was awarded the First Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy Scholarship, sponsored by the American Friends of the Mendelssohn Foundation. He was Maestro Masur’s assistant with the Orchestre National de France during its residency in Vienna as well as with the Gewandhaus Orchestra in Leipzig and with the New York Philharmonic. In 2011, he participated in the Bruno Walter National Conductor Preview, organized by the League of American Orchestras, conducting the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.
As a guest conductor in North America, Lehninger has led the symphony orchestras of Chicago, Houston, Seattle and Toronto among others. In 2013, Mr. Lehninger recorded the work of composer Christopher Culpo for Radio France in Paris, conducting the Orchestre National de France.
Before dedicating his career to conducting, Lehninger studied violin and piano. He holds a Master’s degree from the Conductors Institute at New York’s Bard College.
A dual citizen of Brazil and Germany, Marcelo Lehninger is the son of German violinist Erich Lehninger and Brazilian pianist Sônia Goulart.
Lehninger, his wife, Laura Krech, and their daughters Sofia and Camila, plan to move to Grand Rapids in 2017.

James Saalfeld
2016-10-20 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Jim Saalfeld, 49, is an accomplished and well-rounded attorney, company executive and small business owner, who holds numerous leadership positions within the community, his profession and the Republican Party.
Jim graduated from Northwestern Law School, and currently serves on the University’s Alumni Board for West Michigan. He is a long-time member of the Kent County GOP where he served as its Treasurer from 2006-2010. In addition to his positions with the County, Jim holds various leadership roles within the community including: Chair of the Kent Hospital Finance Authority; Board of Directors for the Arthritis Foundation of West Michigan; Board member of the Grand Rapids Township Economic Development Corporation; and Board member of the Northwestern University Alumni Club of West Michigan. Jim is a hearing panelist for the Michigan Supreme Court Attorney Discipline Board and is a Fellow of the Michigan Bar Foundation. Jim has been a precinct delegate, a delegate to numerous Republican County Conventions, and was appointed by Governor John Engler to the Michigan Higher Education Facilities Commission. Jim is a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in downtown Grand Rapids where he served as Congregational President from 2001-2009. Jim enjoys spending time with his family and friends, and is an active member of numerous community organizations. A brief bio of Jim is found below.
Professional Experience
BISSELL HOMECARE INC. – Walker, Michigan (2013 – Present)

Director and in-house legal counsel for the top-selling floor care brand headquartered in the Greater Grand Rapids area.

SAALFELD & STEWART PLLC – Grand Rapids, Michigan (2009 – 2013)

Founder of law firm focused on assisting small and medium-sized companies with day-to-day legal and management issues.

MERITAGE HOSPITALITY GROUP INC. – Grand Rapids, Michigan (1996 – 2008)

Vice President & General Counsel for company that operates 65 restaurants, employs 2,500, and serves more than ten million customers annually.

DYKEMA GOSSETT LAW FIRM – Grand Rapids, Michigan (1992 – 1996)

Associate attorney for one of Michigan’s largest law firms. Practice in complex litigation and business matters.

Community Involvement and Affiliations

Elected – Kent County Commissioner for District 11
Elected – Chair of the Kent County Board of Commissioners (present)
Elected – Vice Chair of the Kent County Board of Commissioners (2013 – 2015)
Past Chair – Kent County Finance & Physical Resources Committee
Past Chair – Kent County Legislative & Human Resources Committee
Chair – Kent Hospital Finance Authority
Member – Grand Rapids Township Economic Development Corporation Board
Past Member – Grand Valley Metropolitan Council
Board of Directors – Arthritis Foundation of West Michigan
Board of Directors – Northwestern University Alumni Club of West Michigan
Board of Directors – Michigan Lutheran Church Extension Fund (2003 – 2015)
Interviewer – Northwestern University Law School Admissions
Member – Immanuel Lutheran Church – Downtown Grand Rapids
Elected – Grand Rapids Township Trustee (2007 – 2011)
Grand Rapids Township Planning Commission (2004 – 2007)
Appointed by Governor Engler – Michigan Higher Education Facilities Commission (2001 – 2006)

Professional Affiliations

Member – Michigan State Bar
Member – Grand Rapids Bar Association
Michigan Supreme Court – Attorney Discipline Board Hearing Panelist
Member – Fellow of the Michigan Bar Foundation
Michigan Bar – District Character and Fitness Committee (2005 – 2010)
Michigan Bar Committee on United States Courts (1999 – 2008)

Jim Saalfeld is the Chair of the Board Kent County Commissioners, Commissioner for District 11
In 2010, 2012 and 2014, I was honored to be elected Kent County Commissioner for District 11. This District includes more than 33,000 residents living in Grand Rapids Township, East Grand Rapids, and Ada Township. In addition, I was honored to be elected by my colleagues on the Commission to serve as Chair of the Board of Commissioners beginning in 2016.
I enjoy serving our residents in this manner and believe I make a positive impact. Throughout this time, I have worked closely with the leaders of the three communities I represent to make sure issues of interest to our residents are being promptly and properly addressed.
I have worked hard to bring fiscal common sense, good judgment and integrity to the County Commission. But my work with the County is far from over – especially now that I am serving as Chair of the Board. If you ever have comments, questions or suggestions regarding either my campaign or issues impacting Kent County, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Community Engagement Committee - Volunteer Opportunity
2016-10-14 09:00 - 13:00
The Community Engagement Committee would like to invite you to participate in the following volunteer opportunity:
Disability Advocates – Ramp Build
Address – TBD
9:00am-1:00pm
4-6 Volunteers
Rotarian Contact: Dave Bulkowski – dave.b@dakc.us – 616-949-1100

Jennifer Jurgens
2016-10-13 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
With over 20 years in marketing and business management, Jennifer brings a unique skill set to Komen Michigan. Her work experience ranges from creating marketing (lead generation) campaigns and automated processes for Fortune 1000 companies and non-profit organizations to consulting for small and medium-sized businesses. Her specialties include CRM systems, direct marketing, marketing automation, and email and content marketing with expertise in the integration of new software platforms to expedite and simplify digital communications. Jennifer has worked for local organizations like Adtegrity.com, US Xchange, BDO Seidman and served on the boards of TEDxGrandRapids and AimWest.
As a breast cancer survivor, Jennifer brings her own life experiences in addition to her relevant professional work to Komen Michigan. Her public-speaking experiences range from explaining and teaching marketing and lead management best practices to professionals in large conference/corporate settings, to telling her own story in more intimate settings. In the role of Executive Director she is responsible for the overall management of the affiliate including the strategic direction and community partnerships that serve Komen’s mission of ending breast cancer forever.
Jennifer has a Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management from Michigan State University’s Eli Broad College of Business and a Master’s of Business Administration from Grand Valley State University. She lives in Spring Lake, Michigan with her husband Jim Conner and their two children.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjurgens
