2025 Thought Series
We Make Things: Building Better Communities, Businesses and Teams will showcase conversations with over two dozen of the region’s most influential leaders in tech, business, design, workforce development and beyond.
West Michigan is famous for making products, but our expertise also extends to building better communities, companies and teams. From civic projects transforming our communities to AI-driven hiring platforms reshaping the workforce, visionary leaders will share ideas that are changing the way we work and live.
The Thought Series includes special events as well. After each half-day of sessions concludes, we take you behind the scenes with visionary teams that are transforming our community. Each site visit includes a complimentary networking lunch and tour hosted by leaders in the spaces where their ideas come to life.
April 15 & 16 at Kendall College of Art and Design
TUESDAY, APRIL 15
Making a Community:
Supercharging Synergies
8:30a – 9:15a
A new consortium at GVSU is redefining public-private partnerships in West Michigan, forging stronger ties between academia and industry to unlock federal investment. Explore how this collaborative model is driving innovation and economic growth.
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Marouane Kessentini
Dean, College of Computing, GVSU
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Stacy Paul
CEO, Array of Engineers
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Jonathan Engelsma (moderator)
Director, GVSU Applied Computing Institute
Making a Business:
How to Introduce AI into your Company
9:20a – 10:00a
From neural networks and LLMs to algorithmic bias and data ethics, join industry experts in AI and beyond as they share actionable insights on data governance, client protection and more – while unpacking opportunities and challenges that are shaping the future.
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Keith Brophy
CEO, Mentavi Health/ADHD Online
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Erik Daly
Attorney, Miller Johnson
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Jordan Schaenzle (moderator)
Managing Partner, Atomic Object
Making a Community:
Cultivation by Design
10:10a – 10:45a
Design has the power to connect industries, spark creativity and drive innovation. This session explores how collaboration across business, community and education can build stronger, more dynamic ecosystems – where relationships fuel growth and ideas shape the future.
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Rob Hicks
Creative Director, Tekna
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Robb Smalldon
President, Landscape Forms
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Petey Stephanak (Moderator)
Partner, Southwest Michigan First
Making a Team:
Cultivating High Performance Amidst Rapid Change
10:50a – 11:30a
Rapid technological advancements are redefining roles, reshaping organizational structures and transforming how we do business. Industry leaders explore the challenges of navigating change, embracing innovation and building resilient organizations in an era of constant disruption.
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Lisa Brown
VP of Client Services, HR Collaborative
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Catherine Ripley
CEO, Symplicity Comunications
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Lauren Cohen
Founder, LC Consulting Group
Field Trip #1
SYMPLICITY COMMUNICATIONS
Noon – 1:30p
Networking lunch and tour featuring cutting-edge demos from Symplicity Communications' partner providers. Discover the latest in AI, automation and next-gen solutions transforming the customer experience.
(60 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids)
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16
Making a Team:
Building Systems to Attract & Retain
8:30a – 9:15a
Talent initiatives are redefining how Michigan attracts and retains a diverse workforce. Discover how AI-driven hiring platforms and region-specific programs are helping new and future residents build lasting roots.
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Angie Barksdale
Chief Operating Officer, West Michigan Works!
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Carlos Cubia
EVP, Chief Health Equity & Inclusion Officer, Corewell Health
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Katie Hall (moderator)
Founder, Claira Technologies
Making a Business:
Connecting to Capital
9:20a – 10:00a
Raising capital is a critical decision for any business, from startups to established companies. Industry experts will break down the pros and cons of funding options – from traditional banks to venture capital – to give you the clarity and insights needed to navigate the process with confidence.
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Nathan Owen
General Partner, Grand Ventures
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Tamara Milobinski
VP, Business Banking Manager, Mercantile Bank
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Mike Marsiglia (moderator)
Co-CEO, Atomic Object
Making a Team:
Networking That Works
10:10a – 10:45a
In an increasingly digital world, real-life connections matter more than ever. Discover powerful strategies to cultivate a networking mindset and build meaningful relationships that drive personal and professional growth.
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Liz Burnson
Business Development Executive, Warner Norcross + Judd
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Shannon Cohen
Founder, The Rockstar Woman Movement
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Jen Wangler (moderator)
VP of Technology, The Right Place, Inc.
Making a Community:
Creating Transformational Projects
10:50a – 11:30a
How do bold building projects and social equity initiatives shape a true sense of belonging in our communities? Join leaders in business, philanthropy and volunteerism as they share strategies to scale impact, inspire action and turn generosity into lasting change.
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Shannon Cunningham
Dir. of Strategic Partnerships, Acrisure
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Ashley Rigby
Principal Program Manager, MillerKnoll Foundation
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LaSandra Gaddy
CEO, Grand Rapids Community Foundation
Field Trip #2
ACRISURE AMPHITHEATER
11:45a – 1:30p
Behind the scenes tour of the future Acrisure Amphitheater. This exclusive hard hat tour will showcase innovative construction techniques, state-of-the-art entertainment tech, and the venue's role in creating a “green ribbon” along the Grand River. Then enjoy a networking lunch at Acrisure HQ. (100 Ottawa Ave SW, Grand Rapids)
