Revive & Thrive Project Brilliant TenacityWendy has a master’s degree in recreation administration from Aurora University and a passion for youth development. After seeing the need for youth to have healthy eating skills, she made a career change and gained a...

Wedgwood Christian Services Brilliant Best Supporting ManGary Raterink has had two successful 30-year careers, one in public accounting and the other in nonprofit finance. At 86, Gary continues to work as Wedgwood Christian Services’ Planned Giving Officer. He has...

Pochis Sweet Designs Brilliant EntrepreneurDespite encountering adversity at many turns, Paola Andrea Carlson has created a thriving business for her family. In just two years of existence, Pochis Sweet Designs has become a household name in West Michigan and is...

Grand Rapids Community Foundation Brilliant ConnectorAshley René Lee is a nonprofit and communications executive who helps organizations determine strategic direction and deliver messages through an equity lens. She previously led communications at Michigan State...

Shannon Cohen, Inc. Brilliant Woman of the Year Shannon Cohen is a high-level consultant, founder and author of two books: It’s Normal to Shake as You Soar and Tough Skin, Soft Heart: A Leadership Guide to Growing Stronger, Better, and Wiser. She is the Founder and...

Laurel & Co. Brilliant MentorLaurel Romanella is an attorney, mentor, business owner and passionate spark plug. Specifically, she is the owner of the RNR franchise, where she helps companies implement the Entrepreneurial Operating System. She is the eponymous...

Steelcase Brilliant Connector“We rise by lifting others,” a quote by Robert Ingersoll, has served as inspiration for the way Lynnette Collins shows up and engages others both personally and professionally. As a result, Lynnette is known for being an unapologetic...

The Empowerment Institute Brilliant Social Change AgentMonique Salinas is passionately working for West Michigan social justice. The daughter of a Mexican migrant worker, she received her degrees in music and business administration from Aquinas College and her...

Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services Brilliant MentorMariah is a fully Licensed Master Social Worker and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 20 years of experience in the social work field. She is the Outpatient and Recovery Services...

Priority Health Brilliant Champion of ServiceEmpathy and curiosity are her superpowers. Lack of sleep is her kryptonite. Abbey Sladick seeks to live in a world where everyone is loved and valued for their unique perspectives. Her career journey spans more than a...