Heather Zak

Chief Financial Officer, Hope Network
Mentor

With a deep appreciation for the support she received as an immigrant to the U.S., Heather Zak has dedicated over two decades to giving back to the West Michigan community through nonprofit leadership, volunteering and mentoring.

In her current role, she oversees finances to support programs empowering over 34,000 individuals annually with disabilities and disadvantages to overcome physical, social, or mental barriers and achieve their highest level of independence. Beyond her professional achievements, Zak serves on boards and volunteers for organizations like the Michigan Nonprofit Association, GVSU and Heart of West Michigan United Way. As a GVSU Alumni board member and mentor for programs including the Peter C. Cook Leadership Academy and Seidman College of Business mentorship programs, she aims to empower the next generation of leaders. Her efforts reflect her commitment to paying forward support and contributing to the community’s betterment.

Seeing others thrive both professionally and personally as a result of their mentorship relationship has been Zak’s greatest accomplishment. She shares, “Witnessing numerous colleagues who are women attain leadership roles, promotions, enrollment in graduate degrees, professional and continued education programs, and other growth milestones as a result of our mentorship relationship has been immensely fulfilling.”