The South Kent 2024 Economic Growth Summit is your opportunity to gain crucial insights and prepare your business or organization for the year ahead. Dr.Paul Isley - Associate Dean and Professor of Economics for the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University Dr. Paul Isely is currently Associate Dean and Professor of Economics for the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University. 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 Guest Speakers: Dr. Ron Gorman serves as superintendent of Kent Intermediate School District (Kent ISD), an educational service agency in Grand Rapids, Michigan, that serves 120,000 students and 7,000 educators. His background in educational leadership brings a wealth of experience and a steadfast commitment to academic excellence and innovation. Dr. Gorman holds a Doctorate of Educational Leadership that complements his practical experience as a teacher, principal, deputy superintendent, and superintendent. Dr. Bill Pink | President, Ferris State University Dr. Bill Pink became the 19th president of Ferris State University in 2022, the first African-American appointed to the position since the University’s founding in 1884. An active educator and leader, he strongly believes in Ferris’ mission of providing opportunity and ensuring the success of all students. Prior to FSU, Dr. Pink served as president of Grand Rapids Community College and was vice president for academic affairs at Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City Campus. Dr. Pink is involved in governance and policy development at both regional and national levels, serving on the MEDC executive committee, the ACE board of directors, and the boards of Corewell Health West Michigan, Heart of West Michigan United Way, TalentFirst and The Right Place. In June of 2023, Dr. Pink was selected to serve as the co-chair of the higher education working group for Governor Whitmer’s Growing Michigan Together Council, to create a long-term vision for the success of Michigan. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Oklahoma in Instructional Leadership and Academic Curriculum, a Master of Education in Physical Education and Secondary Education from the University of Central Oklahoma, and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Professional Education from Oklahoma Christian University. Juan Carlos was named GM Grand Rapids Operations Plant Director in August 2024. In this role, he leads the operations for GM Grand Rapids, a three-shift operation that employees 1,000 salaried and UAW-represented team members. The facility produces precision machined automotive components for the majority of General Motor’s facilities as well as axles for full size trucks. Prior to becoming the Grand Rapids Plant Director, Juan was the Assistant Plant Manager of Bedford Casting Operations in Indiana where he managed die casting processes that produce cylinder blocks, transmission cases, structural components and EV drive unit housings used in Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles. Juan joined GM as an industrial engineer in 2005. Throughout his career, he has held positions in a variety of manufacturing operations with increasing responsibility across seven facilities throughout North America. Juan graduated from La Salle University with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering and holds a master’s degree in Lean Manufacturing Operations Juan and his wife, Patricia, have two children, a son (Diego – 11) and a daughter (Andrea – 8).
Thursday Oct 17, 2024
Itinerary
8:00 Doors Open 8:30 Opening Remarks 8:45 Keynotes 9:15 Q&A 9:30 Panel Local Stakeholders 10:00 Q&A 10:25 Adjourn 10:30 Networking Disability Advocates.jpg)
2024 Economic Growth Summit
Here is what you should expect:
Comprehensive Economic Update
Get a detailed overview of our region's economic performance this year, comparing initial projections with where we stand now.
Expert Insights from Dr. Paul Isely
Hear from one of the most respected voices in regional economics. Dr. Isely, Associate Dean and Professor of Economics at Grand Valley State University, has led the Seidman forecast team with remarkable accuracy since 2013. His insights are invaluable for anyone looking to understand and navigate the local economic landscape. See below for more info on Dr. Isely.
This summit is an essential event for anyone invested in the future of South Kent. It's more than just an update it's a strategic resource for understanding the economic trends that will impact our region in the coming year.
Join us for this pivotal event and ensure your business or organization is positioned for success in 2025 and beyond. The South Kent Chamber is committed to equipping our members and the wider business community with the knowledge and resources needed to thrive in an ever-evolving economy.
Reserve your spot today and be part of the conversation that shapes our region's future!
Dr. Isely’s research has led more than 50 publications which consist of peer review journal articles, local articles, research reports and grant reports. These articles have explored West Michigan’s economy and its relationship to the National and State Economies. He has written or contributed to reports on storm water management, environmental cleanups and wind energy development funded through Sea Grant by NOAA. He has also valued train stations in Michigan for the Michigan Department of Transportation.
Dr. Isely is also active in public service. His research led to his first appointment by Governor Snyder and then renewed by Governor Whitmer of Michigan to the Utility Consumer Participation Board where he is currently the Interim Chair. He is also has participated in the City of Grand Rapids Renewable Energy work group. Locally, he has also been appointed a member of the Community Collaboration Work Group and Agribusiness Work Group formed by Kent County and has participated in Strategic Planning with Grand Rapids engineering department.
Dr. Ron Gorman | Superintendent of Kent Intermediate School District (Kent ISD)
Tim has been with The Right Place for 16 years. As Senior Vice President of Community Development for The Right Place, he is responsible for leading The Right Place’s place-based strategy and work. His focus areas include community development pillars such as smart growth planning, infrastructure & transportation, community leadership & engagement, placemaking, transformational site redevelopment and more.
Juan Carlos Aldana | Grand Rapids General Motors Plant Director
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Event Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
Supporting Sponsor
Date and Time
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
Location
160 68th St SW
Grand Rapids, MI 49548Fees/Admission
Website
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