Founder & Principal Consultant, DataWise Consulting
Best Supporting Man
Dr. Neil Carlson has been addicted to technical teamwork since building vast Lego layouts with his childhood neighbor. His 2004 Ph.D. in political science from Duke University is just the most formal expression of a voracious appetite for learning.
Since coming to Grand Rapids 20 years ago, his most rewarding experiences have involved networks addressing social challenges. When KConnect was born in 2014, he became a founding co-chair of the Data & Capacity Workgroup. In 2016, he served as a founding co-chair of the network-wide Accountability Partners Council, drafting a decision protocol still in use today. Neil attends the Digital Inclusion workgroup of the Kent County Essential Needs Task Force, and he recently joined the board of STEM Greenhouse. He enjoys spending time with LaVonne, his wife of 25 years, and a pair of Eagle Scouts, Jay and Colin.
Of women in the workplace, Dr. Carlson says, “Every organization should be able readily to imagine a near-term future with a majority or even all-female leadership team as easily as a majority male team. And, every organization will benefit from having specific teams and meeting series where women are in a position to call the shots.”
Neil Carlson, Ph.D
- 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.