First Steps Commission

dsc_0068-300x182 First Steps CommissionThe First Steps Commission is made up of community, business, and philanthropic leaders in the Grand Rapids Area.  Members have diverse interests and backgrounds but share a guiding principle:  all children deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Commission Members:

  • Doug DeVos, President, Amway (Co-chair)
  • Kate Pew Wolters, Director, Steelcase Inc. (Co-chair)
  • Lew Chamberlin, CEO/Managing Partner, West Michigan Whitecaps (Secretary)
  • Bob Herr, Retired Partner, Crowe Horwath LLP (Treasurer)
  • Dr. Jeanne Arnold, Vice President for Inclusion and Equity, Grand Valley State University
  • Cecile Fehsenfeld, Co-owner, Schuler Books & Music
  • Lynne Ferrell, Chair, Great Start Collaborative of Kent County
  • Betty Burton Groce, Community Volunteer
  • Steve Heacock, Community Volunteer
  • Sue Jandernoa, Community Volunteer
  • Kevin Konarska, Superintendent, Kent Intermediate School District
  • Kathy Muir, Community Volunteer
  • Maureen Noe, President, Heart of West Michigan United Way
  • Karen O’Donovan, Community Volunteer
  • Trish Reid, Great Start Parent Coalition
  • Milt Rohwer, Retired President, Frey Foundation
  • Carlos Sanchez, Executive Director, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce West Michigan
  • Joan Secchia, Community Volunteer
  • Carl VerBeek, Of Counsel, Varnum LLP