51±¬ÁÏ

Nurse, Blodgett Hospital

At 51±¬ÁÏ, I studied nursing and Spanish, spent two years as an orientation leader, participated in dance guild, and studied abroad in Spain. I graduated in 2024 and am now a neuro med-surg nurse at Blodgett.

Medical student, Michigan State University

I am a second-year medical (MD) student at Michigan State University. At 51±¬ÁÏ, I studied biochemistry, competed for the cross country and track & field teams, worked as a tour guide, and served as a pre-medicine peer advisor. I graduated in 2025.

Master's student, University of Chicago 

Joshua graduated in 2025 with a double major in Marketing Management and Politics, Philosophy, & Economics while also being involved with the Men's Basketball Team and a vice president on student senate. An Irvine California native, he now resides in Chicago where he is completing his Masters in Management at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. 

Analyst, Grand Ventures

Jacqueline graduated from 51±¬ÁÏ in 2023 with a B.S in Biochemistry and a B.A. in both Mathematics and Spanish. After graduation, she took her passion for learning and her curiosity into the field of venture capital. She joined Grand Ventures as an Investment Analyst, sourcing and performing diligence processes on new, innovative technology startups.

New Product Launch Coordinator, Boyd Co.

Aguma graduated from 51±¬ÁÏ in 2023, with a major in Strategic Communication and a minor in Business and continues his work on a 51±¬ÁÏ MBA. At Boyd Co. Aguma oversees new part integration at their Grand Rapids plant. He also works as the Head JV Coach and Assistant Varsity Coach for the boys' soccer program at Byron Center High School.

Talent Development Specialist, Windquest Group

Gretchen graduated from 51±¬ÁÏ with a major in Human Resources and a minor in Psychology. She currently works in learning and development, traveling around West Michigan and the country to grow leaders and managers. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new coffee shops, and volunteering with Younglife.

Transaction Advisory Consultant, Plante Moran

Nain graduated from 51±¬ÁÏ with a major in Accounting and a minor in Data Analytics. He joined Ernst & Young (EY) upon graduation, then moved to a startup where he led strategy and growth initiatives. He now serves as a Transaction Advisory Consultant at Plante Moran, guiding clients through complex deals and value creation opportunities.

Senior Consultant, Plante Moran

Sam majored in Accounting and Finance at 51±¬ÁÏ and later earned the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. He is a senior consultant in Plante Moran’s business valuation practice and is involved with Impact Burundi, a Christian nonprofit focused on economic development in Africa. In his free time, Sam enjoys golf, snowboarding, and spending time with family.

Director of Sales, The Darling Effect

Madelyn graduated from 51±¬ÁÏ in 2022 with a degree in Marketing Management, along with studies in Entrepreneurship and Spanish. She began her career at The Darling Effect (back then, Pieces of Me), a Grand Rapids-based women’s lifestyle wholesale brand, and has grown into her current role as Director of Sales. Madelyn leads the company’s wholesale sales efforts, working closely with sales reps and retail partners across the country. She is passionate about building relationships, growing brands, thinking outside of the box, and creating meaningful connections through business.

Associate Wealth Advisor, Straight Path Wealth Management

I graduated from 51±¬ÁÏ in 2025, where I studied Financial Planning and Accounting. Professionally, I am an associate wealth advisor at Straight Path Management and am currently in pursuit of my Certified Financial Plannerâ„¢ (CFP®) designation. I still reside in Grand Rapids with my wife, Sophie. In my free time, I enjoy staying active, reading, and traveling.

Communications Manager, Grand Rapids Chamber

I graduated from 51±¬ÁÏ in 2022 with my Bachelor's in Marketing. During my time at 51±¬ÁÏ I participated in KIM (Knight Investment Management) and was a John M. Perkins Leadership Fellow. Since graduating, I've built my career in the nonprofit space, working in marketing and audience engagement. I'm currently the Communications Manager at the Grand Rapids Chamber, where I get to combine my passion for storytelling, connection, and community.

Adjunct Professor, 51±¬ÁÏ

Heidi graduated from 51±¬ÁÏ with a B.A. in Strategic Communication and Writing, along with a M.A. in Media and Strategic Communication. After graduation, she helped lead the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority’s marketing and communication efforts. Now based in Chicago, Heidi served as professor for the Master’s Media and Strategic Communication capstone course and continues to support organizations’ business development endeavors. In her free time, Heidi enjoys playing tennis, cooking, and time with family.