We are delighted to welcome three new members to our Board of Trustees this year. Their leadership and dedication to Holland and Zeeland will help guide the Foundation’s work as we invest in today and build toward a more connected tomorrow.
We also extend a special thank you to our exiting Board members: Jean Ramirez and Yazlén Ochoa. Jean served three consecutive terms for a total of nine years. In partnership with the staff, Jean helped lead efforts in our housing affordability work, the revisioning of our grantmaking process, and our brand refresh. Yazlén served a one-year term as Youth Trustee and also chaired the Youth Advisory Committee.
PJ Thompson
PJ was raised in Holland and is a proud Holland Public Schools grad. He serves as Chairman and CEO of his family business, Trans-Matic Manufacturing Company, which has grown into a global leader under his stewardship. PJ currently chairs the board of the Holland BPW. Earlier this year, he was recognized with the Visionary Award by Lakeshore Advantage for his bold leadership and ability to create impact.
Shelly Vande Wege
Shelly serves as the Director of Communications and Branding at GMB, where she helps shape how the organization communicates and shows up – from sales and marketing to the overall employee experience. She has called Holland home for nearly 20 years, including her time studying at Hope College. Shelly previously served on the board of Compassionate Heart Ministries and was part of the Community Foundation’s brand refresh committee last year.
Annica Yin
Annica will serve a one-year term as Youth Trustee, and as Chair of our Youth Advisory Committee. Annica attends Holland High where she is a member of the Student Senate, National Honors Society – where she serves as the Character Chair, and Rotary Interact Club. She is also the Vice President of Women of Color Give’s Next Generation group, and volunteers with Heights of Hope and Latin Americans United for Progress’ Aquí Jugamos program.
