MEET THE BOARD OF EMBRACING Imperfections
Nick's journey is marked by resilience and a commitment to mental health advocacy. Following high school, he was confronted with the tragic reality of several classmates succumbing to suicide, an experience that ignited his fervent passion for mental health awareness. Born with Spina Bifida, Nick faced his own challenges during elementary school, enduring teasing and learning to embrace his imperfections. Despite the obstacles, he adopted a proactive approach, focusing on what he could change while accepting what he couldn't. Nick's commitment to advocacy and personal growth is complemented by his educational background, holding a degree in Industrial Design with a particular focus on illustration. Through his unique experiences and dedication, Nick strives to make a positive impact in both the realm of mental health and the creative arts.
Angela brings over two decades of invaluable experience to her role as a middle school counselor, where she has made a lasting impact on countless students. Actively involved in various committees, Angela contributes her insights and expertise to the broader educational community. Beyond her professional life, Angela is a proud mother of twin boys, balancing her dedication to education with a commitment to family. Outside the office, she finds solace and joy in the great outdoors, particularly through her love for hiking. Angela's multifaceted interests are further demonstrated by her involvement with a robotics team, showcasing her enthusiasm for fostering creativity and innovation in the younger generation. With a solid educational foundation, Angela earned her Bachelor of Arts from Kalamazoo College in 1998 with a major in French and a minor in History. She later pursued a Master of Arts in Education with a specialization in Educational Counseling at the University of Denver, solidifying her commitment to guiding and supporting students on their educational journey.
Jim is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in financial management, having served as the Corporate Controller for both Ranir and Leon Plastics. Holding the esteemed title of Certified Management Accountant, Jim brings a solid foundation of financial expertise to his roles. Beyond the boardroom, he is a man of diverse interests and passions, finding joy in activities such as sailing, skiing, hiking, tennis, biking, and the culinary arts. While his professional accomplishments speak volumes, Jim derives his greatest sense of fulfillment from his roles as a husband and father, finding daily rewards in the love and companionship of his wife, son, and daughter. With a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration under his belt, Jim's credentials reflect his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Sarah possesses a robust background in sales and leadership, thriving in dynamic business environments. Her professional journey, however, took a deeply meaningful turn when a series of suicides struck her community during one summer, prompting her to become actively involved in supporting mental health initiatives. Driven by a desire to make a difference, Sarah volunteered with a local organization, connecting individuals to vital mental health resources and working towards destigmatizing mental health issues. Her commitment to fostering positive change extends beyond her career, as she aims to collaborate and build partnerships with different communities to promote the concept of Embracing Imperfections. Residing in Florida, Sarah takes immense pride in her roles as a wife and mother. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a major in Human Resource Management, underlining her dedication to understanding the human aspect of business. Furthermore, Sarah has completed certification as a Mental Health First Aid Responder through the Mental Health Foundation, solidifying her commitment to creating supportive and compassionate environments.
Shandy's life journey is a testament to resilience and triumph over adversity. Hailing from the town of Kalkaska, she navigated the challenges of school, sports, awkward dances, and crummy jobs, emerging as a survivor of both physical and emotional battles, including a bout with melanoma and a courageous triumph over attempted suicide. Shandy draws strength and joy from her roles as a wife to Bill and a mother to two boys, Brennan and Cameron. Beyond her personal experiences, Shandy has become a vocal advocate for suicide awareness and prevention, using her own story to inspire and educate others. Known for her infectious laughter, Shandy brings positivity into the lives of those around her. Academically, she is a graduate of Aquinas College, where she not only excelled in her studies but also competed on a national level in both track and basketball, showcasing her determination and athleticism. Additionally, she has contributed to her community as the director of Rockford MVP, demonstrating her commitment to making a positive impact.