What They’re Saying
“The Economic Club of Grand Rapids is an incredible member-driven organization. By providing a forum to connect, inform and inspire, leaders are able to engage in relevant educational and networking opportunities. I have valued meeting new people at the events and learning something new with each session. I appreciate the collaboration, continuous learning, diverse perspectives and meaningful networking.
Tina Freese DeckerPresident & CEO, Corewell Health
“The size, commitment, and engagement of the membership of The Economic Club of Grand Rapids is a testament to the passion our business community has for the growth and prosperity of our region and those who live and work here. I find tremendous value in coming together to learn and connect with one another. At every event, I enjoy the opportunity to meet new people and connect with old friends. The speakers and programming have been excellent and I am thankful to be part of this community!
Drew MeyersClient Development Director, LaFleur & Godfrey Private Wealth Management
“As a sustaining member of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids, I’ve greatly benefited from the exclusive opportunities and engaging events the Club offers. It’s been invaluable for expanding my professional network and staying informed about economic trends. The Club's commitment to fostering meaningful conversations within our business community is something I deeply appreciate, and I’m proud to support their efforts in promoting economic education.
Asa LakemanPresident, Lakeman Financial
“When I was new to town, I found the Economic Club was emblematic of the DNA of West Michigan, strong public private collaboration. It is a great place to connect with individuals who appreciate the power of a strong collective and deepening our understanding of current economic conditions for our organizations and our community. Grand Valley State University, I know, has benefited from our membership as have I.
Philomena MantellaPresident, Grand Valley State University
“The Economic Club of Grand Rapids has been an incredible learning opportunity for both me and our GVSU students. What’s truly impactful is how these experiences at the Econ Club spark conversations and connections that shape their understanding of the business world long after the event. It’s heartwarming to see students continue these discussions on our way back from the luncheons, sharing their experiences with others and raving about what they’ve learned. Going to the Econ Club on Mondays has become a cherished tradition for my students and a meaningful part of their academic journey and experience here in Grand Rapids.
Shorouq AlmallahDirector-Richard M. and Helen DeVos Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Grand Valley State University
“I love the vibrancy of our Economic Club of Grand Rapids and its strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Our regional economy will greatly benefit with the vision of the Econ Club of bringing everyone together.
Guillermo CisnerosPresident & CEO of West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
“We are proud of our partnership and sponsorship with the Economic Club of Grand Rapids. When we invite others to join us at our table, we know that they will hear a world-class speaker and have amazing opportunities to network. The room is filled with businesses professionals, students, entrepreneurs, community experimenters and social enterprise changemakers who are working together to nurture a healthy, hopeful, and informed community.
Holly JohnsonPresident, Frey Foundation
“I have been extremely impressed by the content over the past few months the Econ Club has provided and have been so encouraged and inspired as a leader in my organization.
Tessa KeenaShareholder at Hungerford Nichols CPAs + Advisors
“The Econ Club is the premier location in West Michigan that you can network with top business leaders and stay up to date on the latest trends impacting our local economy. I am proud to be part of this group as they connect, inform and inspire our diverse community at a world class level.
Christina KellerCEO & Chair, Cascade Engineering
“As a longtime member of the Economic Club, I've had so many wonderful opportunities to meet fascinating people from a variety of industries, engage with inspirational leaders, and learn new and insightful things. My time as a member has been rewarding and impactful - both personally and professionally.
Bob Van KaenelPresident & CEO, Hope Network
“I loved being a part of the GR Econ Club before moving to AZ! Just yesterday I shared insights that I learned from a futurist presentation about five years ago. Best of all, the people I met and relationships formed were invaluable.
Sue GiffordDirector of Individual and Legacy Gifts at Child Crisis Arizona
“Thanks to the Econ Club I have been able to expand my business network as well as stay informed on economic and talent-related issues affecting our community and the country.
Carlos SanchezExecutive Director, Latino Program, Davenport University
“As someone who is newer to West Michigan, The Econ Club has been a fantastic way to make new connections and learn from interesting and diverse speakers. I appreciate the caliber of speaking talent the Econ Club has attracted, and I look forward to continued networking opportunities in the future.
Adrienne ChanceSVP & Chief Communications Officer, SpartanNash
“The Economic Club of Grand Rapids is an important connection point for business and community leaders to make an impact. Their thoughtful programming helps inspire and enable continued economic vitality in Grand Rapids and throughout Michigan.
Garrick RochowPresident & CEO, Consumers Energy
“With all we have gone through the past two years, now more than ever we need a place where leaders gather, learn and build relationships. The Econ Club helps keep the community on the leading edge of economic trends and opportunities, while providing a venue to network with area leaders. For those reasons, Econ Club membership is the first thing I signed up for upon returning to West Michigan.
Randy ThelenPresident & CEO, The Right Place
“Moving to Grand Rapids in 2016, I wanted to connect with community leaders, learn more about the region and continue to grow as a leader. The Econ Club was a great place to have all of those goals met in one place. I have had the privilege of serving on the Board for several years now and it is an honor to serve with business leaders that are so passionate about our community, volunteering their time to ensure that everyone in our business community can come together through the Econ Club’s Mission - Connect, Inform and Inspire.
Scott LewisPresident & CEO, YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids
“The Economic Club consistently delivers a world-class lineup of luncheons each season. Every speaker brings valuable perspectives that are highly relevant for business leaders in West Michigan. I look forward to each event so I can share key insights with my clients who aren’t members yet.
Dan FleetwoodOwner, Focal Point Coaching
“The Economic Club of Grand Rapids connects business and community leaders together over relevant topics and thought-provoking conversations. I always leave inspired and with a new connection. Whether you are a young professional or seasoned business leader, there is a place for you at The Economic Club of Grand Rapids.
Alexis ReameClient & Community Relations Director, PNC Bank
“Becoming a member of The Economic Club of Grand Rapids has been a great experience. From discussing a variety of topics relevant to today's workplace to connecting with other professionals in the Grand Rapids area, the opportunities to be connected, informed, and inspired are endless!
Anja HarmonSenior Vice President, Employee Benefits, Hub International Midwest Limited
“When I first came to Grand Rapids in 2018 I quickly realized there was plenty of opportunity to get connected within the community, I just had to find out how. The Econ Club solved that by allowing me to form organic connections with a diverse group of business professionals across all corners of the West Michigan community. Whether you're new-in-town or a West Michigan native, the Economic Club of Grand Rapids is the place to get connected, stay informed, and be inspired.
Nicholas EspinozaAssistant Vice President, Business Banking, Bank of America
“When I first came to Grand Rapids in 2018 I quickly realized there was plenty of opportunity to get connected within the community, I just had to find out how. The Econ Club solved that by allowing me to form organic connections with a diverse group of business professionals across all corners of the West Michigan community. Whether you're new-in-town or a West Michigan native, the Economic Club of Grand Rapids is the place to get connected, stay informed, and be inspired.
Nicholas EspinozaAssistant Vice President, Business Banking, Bank of America
“I started attending Econ Club just after I graduated college because I wanted to stay informed and immerse myself in the Grand Rapids business community. It has helped me immensely on both fronts; I’m very happy I took the chance on joining. The best part of Econ Club, for me, is being able to sit with different people every time. The members are very welcoming and engaging, and the interactions are genuine. I’m always left looking forward to the next one!
Andrew KapanowskiTerritory Sales Manager, Haworth
“I started attending Econ Club just after I graduated college because I wanted to stay informed and immerse myself in the Grand Rapids business community. It has helped me immensely on both fronts; I’m very happy I took the chance on joining. The best part of Econ Club, for me, is being able to sit with different people every time. The members are very welcoming and engaging, and the interactions are genuine. I’m always left looking forward to the next one!
Andrew KapanowskiTerritory Sales Manager, Haworth
“As someone who's been attending Economic Club meetings for 35 years, I've been amazed and inspired by the new talent who have joined the organization. My lunch table is often filled with start-up executives, investors, and social entrepreneurs looking to grow their organizations in West Michigan's economic ecosystem. What hasn't changed in 35 years? The quality of programs, and the ability to build relationships with a wide array of business leaders. The Economic Club of Grand Rapids is THE PLACE to connect with impact players in West Michigan.
Beth KellyPresident, HR Collaborative
“Having been a member since 1988, the Economic Club of Grand Rapids has consistently provided leading edge presentations that are of immeasurable benefit to the Grand Rapids community.
Tom Madison
“I'd heard about the quality of the speakers and level of engagement at Econ Club events since we came back to Grand Rapids three years ago. As a new member, I now see why so many successful organizations choose to call the Econ Club home.
Mark HamiltonPresident, Versa Culture
“Joining the Econ Club has helped me gain a great amount of information, connections, and confidence. As a young professional, I am grateful to be part of such a large and vibrant community!
Ashley SotoLead Success Navigator, West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
“I attend the Economic Club as much as I am able to because it allows me to hear from speakers that talk about real world happenings across the country, world and in our region. And I get to be with other business leaders in our community on a regular basis.
John M LeesePresident, Harvey Automotive
“The Econ Club is an excellent forum to hear from diverse perspectives on relevant topics that impact the economic health of our community. The speakers are outstanding--events are well run and attended.
Praveen ThadaniPresident of Priority Health
“It's so important to dig deeper on important issues facing our businesses and community. Econ Club not only gives us access to thought provoking leaders it connects us all for growth and learning!
Lynne Jarman-JohnsonChief Marketing Officer of Consumers Credit Union
“I'm very grateful to have the Economic Club of Grand Rapids in our community. It has been a very helpful place for me to learn from others and have conversations about relevant topics for business leaders. Some of my favorite professional meetings and connections have come out of being at Econ Club together. I'm also appreciative of how they include local students and bring every one together.
Mark JohnsonPartner & Co-Founder, Michigan Software Labs
“Being a member since the Club's founding, I have always valued the opportunity to network with other for-profit, and not-for-profit business leaders in our community and more broadly across the Region. Truly a regular, healthy business perspective with a mission of continually bringing top talent to Grand Rapids. Thank you.
Greg RhodesBusiness Development Consultant, AEBetancourt
