Director of Talent & Leadership Programs, Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce
Connector
Monica Mendez firmly believes that magic happens when we find common purpose with those outside of our usual circles.
Born and raised in Mexico, Mendez’s journey has been a testament to her ability to navigate diverse cultural landscapes. She spent the first 15 years of her career as a bicultural, bilingual business professional. While finding corporate success, she felt drawn to causes shaping our community, leading her to boldly change direction. Mendez is a community connector who believes in system-level impact through collaboration and relationship building. As the Director of Talent & Leadership Programs at the Grand Rapids Chamber, Mendez is an ally, building the community of tomorrow. She serves as a leader in strategy, development, and facilitation of ATHENA Grand Rapids, Latina Connect, OutPro, and five leadership programs, in addition to sitting on the boards of the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan and the Literacy Center.
Always open to connect—and knowing from experience that one coffee can be life changing—Mendez says, “I connect with people because I know it’s a powerful way to celebrate each other’s greatness. I not only believe in shining a light on others, but in helping people’s lights shine.”
Monica Mendez
- Details
- Category: Brilliance Awards Finalists 2024
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.