Business leaders from across the state are outspoken about the need to expand investment in Michigan’s universities especially the state’s top research universities so businesses will be able to tap the highly educated college graduates and research they need to keep up with the growing demand for workers.
Change-Ups: Mendez joins GR Chamber as talent development manager
Monica Mendez is the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce’s new talent development manager. She is responsible for overseeing Leading Edge, Leadership Advantage, and expanding upon ATHENA Grand Rapids programming, as well as providing support to chamber members. An immigrant from Mexico, Mendez came to the United States 20 years ago. She spent the first 15 years of her career as a business professional in a variety of different sales roles, but the magna cum laude graduate from Eastern Michigan University with a degree in International Business said she always felt drawn to other causes related to creating positive change within the community.