2023 NOTABLE LEADERS IN DEI

Fifteen years ago, the words “diversity, equity and inclusion” were part of the public lexicon, but rarely were they used in conjunction with each other. They were social issues that merited discussion individually in the family dining room. Today, collectively, they represent one of the most important topics discussed in West Michigan boardrooms and are a pillar of the city of Grand Rapids’ efforts to be recognized nationally as an all-inclusive city.

Crain’s Grand Rapids Business Notable Leaders in DEI introduces professionals who are making their mark in the community in a variety of ways. They represent different industries, but each is contributing to West Michigan’s growth by employing their expertise in areas beyond the office and boardroom. This year’s Notables “class” includes entrepreneurs, public servants, construction professionals, health care leaders and a host of others who are undertaking the task of providing diverse, equitable and inclusive experiences for their own employees as well as their clients. When not at work, they also take their skills on the road and provide assistance with DEI issues at various nonprofits and community organizations, thereby reaching even more West Michigan residents with this important message. Get to know them better in the following profiles written by Paul Kopenkoskey.

METHODOLOGY: Notable West Michigan DEI Leaders is a nomination/application process recognizing people who are doing outstanding work in their profession and the community. Once applications are collected, they are turned over to the Crain’s Grand Rapids Business Editorial Department for judging. Editorial staffers are looking for and voting on individuals who are leaders in their organization and who exhibit that leadership professionally through participation in programs to enhance their organizations, the client experience and the community at large. While there is no set number of recipients, no more than three DEI professionals can represent an individual organization. Profile information is based on answers to application questions as well as some Crain’s Grand Rapids Business research.

Jamon Alexander
Jamon Alexander
Luis Avila
Luis Avila
Jesse Bernal
Jesse M. Bernal
Kim Bode
Kim Bode
Rhae-Ann Booker
Rhae-Ann Booker
Paul T. Doyle
Paul T. Doyle
Eric Foster
Eric Foster
Tracey Fountain
Tracey Fountain
Enid Gaddis
Enid Gaddis
Vicki Harris
Vicki Harris
TaRita Johnson
TaRita Johnson
Brett Karhoff
Brett Karhoff
Birgit Klohs
Birgit Klohs
Lisa Lowery
Lisa Lowery
Brad Mathis
Brad Mathis
William Maurer
William Maurer
Christina K. McDonald, Dickinson Wright
Christina McDonald
Isabel Medellin, Steelcase
Isabel Medellin
Steve Nawrocki, AHC Hospitality
Steve Nawrocki
Julian Newman
Julian Newman
Camila Noordeloos
Camila Noordeloos
Attah Obande
Attah Obande
Jim Roberts
Jim Roberts
Sandra Upton
Sandra Upton