Executive Director, Baxter Community Center
Champion of Service
Service to others has always been a part of Sonja Forte’s life. It’s something she believes everyone should do, as we’ll all need to be served at some point, in some way.
As Executive Director of Baxter Community Center, Forte leads a team that offers services to neighbors and spaces where the community can come together to feel not only cared for, but wholeheartedly welcomed. Forte is intentional about being a “quiet force,” staying off the radar and moving discreetly in her efforts. She’s best known for her unique point of view and for challenging the idea of going along to get along. In doing so, she often shifts conversations in the room, challenging the direction of efforts. Forte has also spent years championing the support of Black Owned Businesses—particularly by other businesses, government and local organizations. It’s her belief that everyone should be able to pursue their own dreams, however they see them.
Forte shares, “It took me a long time to realize that by simply being myself, a kind yet direct woman with a quirky outlook on life, that it becomes a nonverbal affirmation (and even permission) for others to do the same.”
Sonja Forte
- 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.
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