United Way of the Lakeshore has a great opportunity to grow professional and apply those skills in support of the community! Our Loaned Executive Program is a professional learning program for your organization's most talented and promising future leaders. Through this program, we aim to equip your associate with essential skills that not only benefit your company but also contribute to the betterment of our community. The training, in partnership with Muskegon Community College and key community leaders, will focus on several areas including Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Implicit Bias, Leadership, Project Management, and Team Building.
By participating in this program, your organization can foster a workplace culture that aligns with the values and aspirations of the new generation, while also attracting and retaining top talent. Together, we can create a positive impact both within your company and in the wider community we call home.
If you would like to nominate someone from your company to become a Loaned Executive or would like to become a Loaned Executive yourself, please complete our Loaned Executive Interest Form. If you have any questions on the program, please contact J.J. Lewis, Chief Development Officer, at either (231) 332-4007 or via email at james@unitedwaylakeshore.org.
What is a Loaned Executive?
Once Loaned Executives go through our robust training in partnership with Muskegon Community College, their capstone assignment to apply what they have learned is to support our community campaign. They become a “foot soldier” during the capstone for the United Way campaign and are probably the most important individual on the campaign trail. The relationships built between the Loaned Executive volunteer, the organizations, and the staff are essential for United Way's success.
The Loaned Executive assists the United Way in planning, organizing, and managing up to 10 workplace campaigns during their capstone. Hours are varied and flexible. Approximately 20-40 hours total from September through December.
Training is offered on Wednesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 pm beginning on July 26 as follows:
- July 26 – Orientation and the Art of Public Speaking
- August 2 – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Implicit Bias
- August 9 – Introduction to Leadership
- August 16 – Introduction to Project Management
- August 23 – Leadership Circle Donor Appreciation Reception
- September, October, and November — Times TBD--Individual company visits, preparation meetings, project management, and follow-ups
- December 13 – Graduation and Celebration of Loaned Executives Training Completion
Meet Our Loaned Executive Program Faculty!
Jerry Conrad
Jerry is a successful business owner and professional development coach. He has led innovation processes across the globe. He's also a certified speaking professional (CSP) with the National Speakers Association, a Distinguished Toastmaster, and an educator for public speaking and human resources at Western Michigan University, Grand Valley State University, and Muskegon Community College. He holds a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from Western Michigan University and is a veteran.
Barbara Landes, Instructional Support Technician & Professor, Muskegon Community College
Barbara started her career in the early 80s helping to design Windows 3. She then moved on to computer networks, where she parlayed both skills to train Office in emerging technology. During this time she also worked as a technician to troubleshoot and later moved into a technical project manager role. She moved from Oregon to Michigan in 2009 and began working at Muskegon Community College as an adjunct professor. In 2017 she took on a dual role of professor and instructional support technician, while still teaching coursework in computer technologies and project management.
Barbara has over 30 years as a certified project manager with several certifications in technical products such as A+, MOS, AWS and much more. She is also a member of the Anthology's Leadership Circle.
Ken James, Chief Diversity Officer for Muskegon Community College
Ken has nearly three decades of experience spanning a multitude of industries including nonprofit, healthcare, and higher education. Ken is driven by his passion to initiate cross-cultural dialogue and advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. As Chief Diversity Officer for Muskegon Community College, he combines his knowledge and lived experiences to deliver creative, intentional programs to students, faculty, community members, and businesses.
Ken is an alumnus of Kentuck State University and Grand Valley State University, from which he holds a Master's of Public Administration. Most recently, he earned an Executive Certification in Diversity Coaching through CoachDiversity Institute in partnership with Howard University School of Business and is recognized as an Associate Diversity Coach (ADC).
Roger Spoelman
Bio Coming Soon!
Meet Our Loaned Executive Program Advisors!
JJ Lewis, Chief Development Officer, United Way of the Lakeshore
Jack Russell, CEO & President of Rolar Products
Pat Shafer, Retired Chamber of Commerce
Why should your organization participate in the Loaned Executive Program?
Research studies show that the new emerging workforce places considerable importance on your company’s culture and its desire to actively contribute to the community in meaningful ways. A recent survey encompassing over 5,000 workers revealed that 77 percent of respondents would factor in a company's culture when considering job opportunities. In addition, 56 percent expressed that a positive workplace culture held greater importance than salary in terms of job satisfaction.
By participating in this program, your organization can foster a workplace culture that aligns with the values and aspirations of the new generation, while also attracting and retaining top talent. Together, we can create a positive impact both within your company and in the wider community we call home.
