President, Trinity Health Grand Rapids
Best Supporting Man
Dr. Matt Biersack feels obligated to use his position, privilege and voice to support those who don’t have the same opportunities he’s had—be it in pay, promotion or any other aspect of their career.
As a trusted and collaborative leader who has served as President of Trinity Health Grand Rapids since March 2021, Dr. Biersack began his professional career as a hospital-based Internal Medicine physician, and has served in several administrative roles at THGR. A mission-centered leader, he serves as a strong advocate for community needs, and has helped forge partnerships to address much needed access to behavioral healthcare. He is a champion for hospital employee and patient safety initiatives as well as THGR’s DEI work, where he has taken an active role in ensuring an organizational focus on advancing diversity and eliminating racism. Dr. Biersack serves as Board Co-Chair for TalentFirst, and on the Board of Trustees for Aquinas College, as well as The Right Place.
Dr. Biersack, a Grand Rapids native, says, “Men have an essential role in promoting equitable outcomes in the workplace, and in doing so, they’ll unlock the incredible potential of the women around them.”
Matt Biersack, MD
- 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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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.