Events

Join us as we kick off a new Rotary year and welcome incoming Club President Joel Hondorp. President Joel will share his vision and goals for the year ahead as he leads our club into an exciting new chapter.

Speaker: Russ Kavalhuna Title: President, Western Michigan University Bio: President Russ Kavalhuna came to Western to serve as president with a distinguished record of public service, higher education leadership and a results-driven approach to student success. Reflecting deep commitments to advocacy, accountability and collaboration, President Kavalhuna’s career spans aviation, law and education. A former commercial airline…

On Thursday, July 23rd Rotarians and guests will gather at Indian Trails Camp for our annual picnic! Since 1952, the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids has partnered with Indian Trails Camp, mentoring for at-risk high school students, reduction of childhood hunger, projects to reduce physical barriers for the disabled, support for the elderly in need,…

Speaker: Doug Lepisto - Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Sleeping Giant Capital Bio: Doug is co-founder and managing partner of Sleeping Giant Capital. He stewards the firm’s distinctive mission and principles and drives the continued innovation of Sleeping Giant’s pioneering place-based model. Doug leads Sleeping Giant’s investment thesis development and underwriting, investor relations, and university partnerships.…

Speaker: Nick Abraham Title: Manager of Regulatory Strategy at ITC Holdings BIO: Nick Abraham is the Manager of Regulatory Strategy at ITC Holdings, where he helps shape regulatory policy and strategy for one of the nation's largest independent electric transmission companies. In his role, he works on complex energy policy issues, collaborates with regulatory agencies…

Speaker: Doug Mooney Title: English Language Fellow, U.S. State Department Bio: Doug Mooney is an experienced educator and language professional who recently served as an English Language Fellow with the U.S. Department of State. Through this prestigious fellowship, Doug works with universities, educators, and students abroad to strengthen English language education, enhance teaching methodologies, and…

Speaker:  Lisa Cruden, LMSWPresident, Exalta Health BIO: Lisa Cruden is President of Exalta Health, a nonprofit organization serving the Grand Rapids community through compassionate, whole-person healthcare and support for individuals and families facing barriers to care. With a strong commitment to community health and equity, Lisa provides leadership for Exalta Health’s mission to improve the…