President & CEO, Wedgwood Christian ServicesBest Supporting ManThroughout his career, Dan Gowdy has demonstrated his intent to promote diversity, advocate for equality and elevate strong talent and good character in the workplace. He firmly believes in leveraging...

Founder & Principal Consultant, DataWise Consulting Best Supporting ManDr. Neil Carlson has been addicted to technical teamwork since building vast Lego layouts with his childhood neighbor. His 2004 Ph.D. in political science from Duke University is just the...

President, Trinity Health Grand RapidsBest Supporting ManDr. Matt Biersack feels obligated to use his position, privilege and voice to support those who don’t have the same opportunities he’s had—be it in pay, promotion or any other aspect of their career.As a trusted...

President, Women At Risk InternationalChampion of ServiceRebecca McDonald doesn’t consider herself to be special—just someone determined to give voice to the silenced. She’s spent four decades reaching out to the wounded and lifting them up to a place worth and...

Executive Director, Baxter Community CenterChampion of ServiceService to others has always been a part of Sonja Forte’s life. It’s something she believes everyone should do, as we’ll all need to be served at some point, in some way.As Executive Director of...

Founder & Owner, Food Hugs, Amore Trattoria ItalianaChampion of ServiceJenna Arcidiacono’s love language is serving others through food. Her first job was slinging chili dogs and root beer floats at Cook’s Drive-In. Slowly, she realized cooking was more than a way...

Director of Economic Opportunity, AmplifyGR ConnectorDanielle Williams has built networks and friendships all over the world, always led by the mantra of staying true to who you are and never conforming.Backed by many years of experience in corporate...

Founder, SWAN (Strong Women Arise Network); Client Executive, HylantConnectorYou may not know it by meeting her, but Angela Schalow is an introvert. As an insurance agent, she knew networking was crucial. Yet, she often felt drained after meeting strangers...

Director of Talent & Leadership Programs, Grand Rapids Chamber of CommerceConnectorMonica Mendez firmly believes that magic happens when we find common purpose with those outside of our usual circles.Born and raised in Mexico, Mendez’s journey has been a testament...

Project Coordinator, Social Innovation, SteelcaseEmerging LeaderA West Michigan native, Ashley Fermina Soto is a strong leader grounded in her commitment to justice. Raised by a single mother, Soto is a first-generation college graduate who served as president of her...