FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
‘WEST MICHIGAN WOMAN’ NAMES MICHELLE RABIDEAU, CFRE, MPA
RECIPIENT OF 2025 LEGACY OF BRILLIANCE AWARD
Award recognizes Rabideau’s celebrated career and significant contributions to philanthropy in West Michigan and beyond.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., March 6, 2025 – West Michigan Woman, a magazine and online community that informs, connects and inspires the women of West Michigan, has announced that Michelle Rabideau, CFRE, MPA, President of Saint Mary’s Foundation (the designated philanthropic and charitable arm for Trinity Health Grand Rapids), will be honored with the 2025 Legacy of Brilliance Award at the upcoming ninth annual Brilliance Awards, taking place April 24 at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids.
The Legacy of Brilliance Award, chosen directly by the West Michigan Woman team, was created in 2023 and is presented to a well-respected woman who has a reputation for showing up for her team, her network and her community throughout the entirety of her exceptional career. The Legacy of Brilliance Award recognizes a woman who for years—perhaps even decades—has given of herself, personally and professionally, to better the lives of those around her and the place we call home. She's someone who everyone can share a story about, and has worked tirelessly over time to ensure progress is always being made. Through every interaction, this woman has helped lay the stepping stones for others to excel. She inspires, cheers others on, has broken barriers and is celebrated for the path she has already paved and continues to forge.
The Legacy of Brilliance Award is presented alongside nine additional categories awarded at the annual Brilliance Awards event: Mentor, Connector, Social Change Agent, Tenacity, Champion of Service, Entrepreneur, Emerging Leader, Best Supporting Man, and Woman of the Year.
“As we approached the planning phases for this year’s Brilliance Awards, we were excited to once again recognize and celebrate a woman who has contributed so much to our community and inspires others through the Legacy of Brilliance Award,” said Kasie Smith, President & Publisher of West Michigan Woman. “Michelle has an infectious and energetic spirit that people just love to be around. Her can-do attitude and connection building is substantial, to say the least. We couldn’t be more thrilled to show her the love she deserves for her tremendous contributions which have touched the lives of many throughout West Michigan and beyond.”
Rabideau is a nationally recognized leader in philanthropy, having raised more than $125 million for various organizations over the past 30 years. As a dedicated community trustee and public servant, Rabideau is most passionate about health care, education, empowering women and building a healthier community for all.
As President of Saint Mary's Foundation since 2001, Rabideau has led efforts to raise and award more than $110 million to Trinity Health Grand Rapids focused on improving health care access, addressing social influencers of health, strengthening a culture of safety and quality, and building centers of clinical excellence in oncology, neurosciences and community health. Her leadership extends to the senior leadership team at Trinity Health Grand Rapids Hospital, where she’s played a key role in shaping the organization's strategic and operational direction.
“I am beyond grateful for this honor. It truly reflects the impact of all the small and big differences we make every day,” Rabideau said. “For me, it's been about championing strong public education, empowering women to find their voices and confidence, addressing health care disparities to ensure everyone has access, and promoting voluntarism and service to strengthen our community. I hope to inspire others to live joyful and purposeful lives and that my legacy continues to shine through and make a difference in the world.”
Rabideau’s public service is extensive, including currently serving as Board President of the YWCA West Central Michigan, where she’s publicly shared her story as a sexual assault survivor to inspire others to have the courage to speak out about their experiences. She also serves as Chair of the National Kappa Delta Foundation, and has served two terms on the East Grand Rapids Public Schools Board and in a Governor-appointed position on the Michigan Community Service Commission.
Nationally, Rabideau serves on the philanthropy leadership council for Trinity Health and speaks at conferences on fundraising, leadership, and community engagement. She’s also served as adjunct faculty for a graduate level class on fund development at Grand Valley State University.
Each year, the Brilliance Awards recognize the dynamic talent, spirit and intellect of those who tackle issues facing professional women. Focusing on nominees who are committed to creating positive change and excel in their fields, the Brilliance Awards shine a light on local leaders within the West Michigan community who truly elevate others and blaze trails of inspiration.
Ticket and table information can be found at: https://serendipity-media.com/brilliance-awards
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