Harbor Humane Society
Brilliant Emerging Leader
Allyson is a passionate fund development professional who has a heart for giving a voice to the voiceless—especially those with fur and four legs! In the last three years, Harbor Humane Society’s fund development has consistently expanded under Allyson’s leadership efforts in building new standards for the department. Those efforts have come to fruition through direct mail campaigns and sponsored partnerships that have tripled growth in monthly giving and signature event revenue—all to better serve our community’s homeless pets. Allyson applies her detail oriented, results-driven nature to creating meaningful experiences that help foster connections to Harbor Humane's mission. When it comes to leadership, Allyson says, “it should be of utmost priority to take care of your people (and yourself)! Ensuring your team’s needs are met, means everyone has the opportunity to succeed. … the phrase ‘you cannot pour from an empty cup’ has always resonated with me.” Native to West Michigan, Allyson received her bachelor’s degree in community leadership from Aquinas College in 2017.
Allyson Huttenga
- Details
- Category: Brilliance Awards Finalists 2022
From this issue
Kathleen B. Vogelsang, CFA, is a true believer in remembering where you come from. A first-generation college graduate and non-traditional student, she earned her MBA and CFA designation while raising three children and working full-time. “I started out from very humble beginnings, nothing came easy,” Vogelsang said. “I was the first one in my family to go to college and paid my own way through, starting with community college. I don't ever want to lose sight of who I am; I'm still just humble little me—no matter how many awards I get. [What matters] is who I am … someone who’s trying to do the right thing and be a good person.”
Shelley Irwin is the Host and Producer for The Shelley Irwin Show, a newsmagazine talk-show on the local NPR WGVU affiliate Monday through Friday. She also hosts several public affairs TV programs and is award-winning in her profession and beyond. Irwin also gives generously of her time, volunteering with various community organizations. In addition, she’s represented the U.S. in Long Distance Triathlon and Duathlon World Championships. Irwin is the fourth recipient of the West Michigan Woman Legacy of Brilliance Award, an honor created as part of the annual Brilliance Awards, which recognizes a woman who for years has given of herself, personally and professionally, to better the lives of those around her. We caught up with Irwin to get her perspective on her work and what advice she has for others.
Has your favorite big brand discontinued your favorite product? Are other products hard to get your hands on? Or do you simply want to purchase a quality product while shopping small? Enter: local skin and body care! Come along as we explore three local brands you should know about.
Working out isn’t always some people’s idea of “fun.” For some, working out alone at home or at the gym can feel isolating, whether it’s lack of a routine, accountability, consistency, motivation, confidence, or otherwise. However, for some, working out in a group setting is like hitting a power up button in a video game. You’ve got someone knowledgeable leading you in the right direction, and a community cheering you on as you grow beyond your comfort zone—together! Both mentally and physically, it can be a true game changer.