Dec. 1, 2025 Joel Rodriguez attended Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) as a music major more than a decade ago. His love for heavy metal music and playing the guitar made the program feel like the right fit. But after just one semester, Rodriguez’s world changed when his mother suddenly passed away.  A Series Of Challenges In the midst of navigating his profound grief, Rodriguez was kicked out of his home with no extended family living nearby. Unsure of his next steps, Rodriguez received a generous offer from his now in-laws: a place to live so he could finish school and continue working. With a stable home, a supportive partner and her family, Rodriguez found a renewed determination to succeed.  Change Of Pace The difficult circumstances sparked a shift in perspective.  “I truly believe every bad day is just the entry fee for every good day,” Rodriguez said.  He recalled the pivotal moment that steered him away from music and toward business. While juggling a business statistics class and Aural Comprehension for music, his priorities were clear — until the day both classes held exams. “I didn't have the passion or discipline that was needed to succeed in music. I was in a business statistics class at the same time I was taking Aural Comprehension for my music degree. I didn't pay much attention in the business class because I wanted to be a musician. I had an aural comprehension test at the same time I had a business stats test,” he said. “Even though I put more time into the music exam, I didn’t perform the way I was hoping I would. This turned into a pivotal moment for me.”  Without studying, Rodriguez performed among the top of his class on his statistics test. That moment changed everything.  “I made the decision to switch to business,” Rodriguez said. “I wanted to propose to my girlfriend at the time and a career in music didn’t seem like the best option. I knew the passion wouldn’t be there to carry me through the hard times. From that moment on, it was study, do everything that I needed to do in order to provide for the family I wanted to have. I’m happy to say we’ve been married for 11 years.”  Rodriguez graduated from GRCC with an associate degree in finance before completing his bachelor's degree at Grand Valley State University. Life Throws Another Curve Ball When his in-laws moved to Florida, Rodriguez and his wife followed. He began working at a bank and settled into a comfortable new position.  “I was good at accounting and it was providing a decent living for me and my family,” he said. “But something was missing for me.” Rodriguez changed jobs over the years as he continued to seek both stability and passion. Each job felt like it was still missing something. As a child, Rodriguez loved comics, specifically  Spawn #1, created by Todd McFarlane. In 2019, he launched Metal Ninja Studios as a creative side venture to reconnect with that childhood spark. He taught himself the ins and outs of comic creation and found that passion once again  Two years later, just as the pandemic hit, Rodriguez and his wife learned they were expecting their first child. Rodriguez suddenly faced a difficult choice. “I could either continue my day job working at a pharmaceutical plant and spend four days a week living in Tampa, essentially leaving my wife, Chrissy, to raise our son by herself, or I could quit the day job, commit everything that I had to Metal Ninja Studios and make it work,” he said. “Leaving my wife and son was a non-negotiable for me.”  He chose Metal Ninja Studios. “Why Not?” Leads To Success Rodriguez dared to think “Why Not?” instead of “No”. He dared to enter the comic world with no formal experience, only belief in a dream that he could do it. Seven years later, Metal Ninja Studios has grown into a one-stop shop for comic creation. He was nominated for a 2025 H.E.R.O.I.C. Award for Best Lettering for his comic “The Dusk County Chronicles.”  His newest service, Concept to Comic TM, guides clients through the full creative process from idea to print ready in a complete done-for-you service. Rodriguez also launched the Concept to Comic TM Academy as an educational resource for aspiring creators wanting to learn about the creative and business aspects of comics. His innovation, grit and creative leadership recently  earned him recognition from Marquis’ Who’s Who Top Professional Series .  “I wouldn't be where I am without my faith, my family and my team,” Rodriguez said. “It’s my personal drive to do better every single day while also having the humility to understand I wouldn't be where I am without the support around me, without my father-in-law bringing me in that first night and my wife’s belief in me as I took risks, or without my team and the talents they all bring to the table. Just because you have to do hard things and learn how to persevere by yourself doesn't mean you have to do everything yourself.” Coming Full Circle Rodriguez continues carving new paths in the comic industry. Recently, his childhood dream came true when he met Todd McFarlane at San Diego Comic Con, where Metal Ninja Studios hosted an industry mixer. Rodriguez shared his journey and pitched his Concept to Comic TM model to the man who inspired it all.  “Never be afraid to ask questions,” Rodriguez said when asked about what he’s learned along the journey. “I know what it's like to get into a room full of people who are way beyond you in business. There are good people out there who want to help you learn from their journey, so don’t be scared to ask questions and find the people who are willing to help.”  Explore Metal Ninja Studios This story was reported by Anjula Caldwell

Nov. 25, 2025 Three higher education leaders from Michigan, Indiana and Wisconsin have been selected as finalists in the search for the next president of Grand Rapids Community College. The college has scheduled opportunities for the campus and community to meet each finalist during the first two weeks of December. Finalist bios and interview schedules are available on the Presidential Search webpage . “These finalists reflect the kind of bold, student-focused leadership our community expects and deserves,” said GRCC Board Chair Dr. Brandy Lovelady Mitchell. “We’re excited for our campus and community to meet them, hear their perspectives and be part of this important step in shaping GRCC’s future.” GRCC is conducting a national search to replace Interim President Dr. Steven J. Triezenberg. The Board of Trustees hopes to name a new president by the end of this year. Nerita Hughes, Ed.D. President  Bay de Noc Community College Escanaba, Michigan Dr. Nerita Hughes currently serves as the President of Bay de Noc Community College, a role she has held since July 2023. She brings extensive experience in academic leadership, workforce innovation and organizational development across higher education and the public sector. Dr. Hughes is an Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) Qualified Administrator and has deep expertise in strengths-based leadership, cultural competency, racial equity and talent development. Jason Rivera, Ph.D. Vice Provost for Student Success and Dean of University College Ball State University  Muncie, Indiana Dr. Jason Rivera is a mission-driven higher education leader with nearly three decades of experience championing student success, institutional transformation and community-anchored innovation. He currently serves as Vice Provost for Student Success and Dean of University College at Ball State University, where he has set the strategic direction for student success and led a comprehensive redesign and coordination of student supports throughout the university. Kathryn Rogalski, Ed.D. Vice President of Academic Affairs and Workforce Development  Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Green Bay, Wisconsin Dr. Kathryn Rogalski is a student-centered community college leader with more than 25 years of experience serving learners at both comprehensive community and technical colleges. Dr. Rogalski has served students directly as both a faculty member and an academic advisor, experiences that continue to shape her authentic, student-first leadership approach. Her career is grounded in a deep belief in the community college mission and in the power of accessible, high-quality education to transform lives, strengthen families and support thriving communities. 

Nov. 21, 2025 The 2026 GIANT Award recipients reflect the strength, leadership and unwavering commitment of African Americans who have shaped Grand Rapids through advocacy, service and visionary action. Established in 1983 by Dr. Patricia Pulliam and Cedric Ward, the GIANT Awards honor notable African Americans who have made significant contributions to the betterment of society. Each of the 12 annual awards is named after a local “giant,” whose legacy continues to guide the spirit of justice, equity and progress in the Grand Rapids community. This year’s recipients were selected from more than 120 nominations. Each embodies the excellence, determination and community-minded leadership modeled by the GIANT for whom their award is named. During the annual banquet, one of the recipients will also be recognized with the prestigious “GIANT Among GIANTS” award, announced live at the event. Proceeds from the celebration support the Junior GIANT Scholarship Fund, which helps prepare future leaders. 2026 GIANT Award Recipients W.W. Plummer Humanitarian Award — Kelsey Perdue Grand Rapids City Commissioner Kelsey Perdue carries on Dr. W.W. Plummer’s legacy of confronting systemic inequities with courage and clarity. Elected at age 32, she represents one-third of Grand Rapids and focuses on housing, safety, small business support and youth opportunity. She spearheaded the negotiation of more than $50 million in community benefits tied to local development, and championed the city’s first lead safety ordinance in decades. Time after time, Perdue has unapologetically and strategically pushed back against systems and structures that bring harm to historically marginalized populations in Grand Rapids. William Glenn Trailblazer Award — Johnny Walker A pioneer on and off the field, Johnny Walker exemplifies William Glenn’s trailblazing spirit. As a professional baseball player in the late 1950s and early 1960s, Walker helped open doors for African American athletes to break into a white-dominated sport. When his playing days ended, he channeled his talents into the Kent Little League baseball program, where he helped develop hundreds of young players. He also served students in Grand Rapids Public Schools for more than three decades. Walker has modeled a life of humble, confident integrity while blazing a trail for recognition and respect. Milo Brown Business Award — Tanya Powell-May Tanya Powell-May exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit and community mindset demonstrated by Milo Brown. She has started two successful businesses: one in tax services and one in real estate. In addition to being a community employer, she volunteers on several boards and often donates her time to present workshops on homeownership and financial literacy to young people. She is also a role model and mentor for young women interested in starting their own businesses. Powell-May embodies trust, honesty, integrity, dependability and proven results, all of which are essential for success in business and in life. Martha Reynolds Labor Award — Shana Washington  Shana Washington has remained passionate throughout her 20-year career in removing barriers, creating access to higher-wage careers and developing talent pipelines. Her pioneering work began at an engineering firm. It ignited her healthcare career where she has improved and strengthened the hiring process, significantly increasing diversity and the quality of hires. She has led this innovative work in a national executive role, deploying workforce development programming, including her signature career navigation program, systemwide in 27 states. Washington is also a trusted voice who advocates for underrepresented populations in both local and national contexts. She is a persistent and effective leader with strong integrity and a servant’s heart, deeply committed to making a positive impact on others, both in her own community and beyond. Hattie Beverly Education Award — Kenyatta Hill-Hall For 15 years, Kenyatta Hill-Hall has built up others through her leadership at Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy. She has led with distinction, helping the school achieve more than a 90% graduation rate and acceptance rate to postsecondary institutions. This is a significant achievement at any school but even more impressive within an urban school district. She is herself a lifelong learner who is currently working toward a doctorate of education leadership at Michigan State University. Hill-Hall is a fearless visionary and trailblazer who is well-known and respected for lifting up her colleagues and students. H.C. Toliver Religious Life Award — Belinda Cunningham Like H.C. Toliver, Belinda Cunningham’s faith is unwavering. She lives out a clear vision for spiritual growth and outreach in both her church family and community. Cunningham is the executive pastor at Brown-Hutcherson Ministries and serves on several boards. She is also supervisor of community programs at Corewell Health, with more than 20 years of experience serving moms and babies. Cunningham is always willing to help lead initiatives that support families, meet needs and engage with neighbors. She works tirelessly to ensure all people are seen, heard and loved. Floyd Skinner Justice Award — Kimberley Williams Kimberley Williams began her legal career as a parole officer, where she brought honesty, grace and respect to those experiencing the toughest times in their lives. She then transitioned to the State of Michigan Department of Civil Rights, where she now leads investigations into complaints of unlawful discrimination. In 2023, Williams was elected to the Grand Rapids Public Schools board, where she quickly ascended to executive committee positions and helped GRPS achieve the highest graduation and enrollment rates it has experienced in 20 years. Williams has impacted her community since childhood and continues to lead by example. Eugene Browning Medical Service Award — Dr. Kathleen Jarrett Dr. Kathleen Jarrett serves as medical director for Healthier Communities at Corewell Health. She is also a trailblazer in acute-care management for patients with sickle cell disease. Dr. Jarrett led the creation of a statewide clinical pathway that has transformed care for these patients—reducing hospital stays, improving pain management and ensuring more compassionate, timely treatment. She ignored stereotypes and took an evidence-based approach, challenging providers to acknowledge and eliminate biases in patient care. Her mission is to uplift patients and families through innovative medicine and human-centered care. Ethel Coe Humanities Award — Lamar James Lamar James is an extraordinary self-taught musician who has inspired countless individuals, sustained traditions and fostered a shared sense of pride. For more than 40 years, he has directed choirs, led worship and shared his talent at major civic and cultural events. There is not one Black musician, young or old, who hasn’t been influenced and inspired by his example. His journey is a testament to the power of dedication and faith, showing how lived experience and love for music can shape true mastery. His commitment to God, family and excellence ensures that music continues to be a unifying force. Walter Coe Public Service Award — Kenisha Dorsey For more than 28 years, Kenisha Dorsey has dedicated herself to the well-being of others as a social worker, community leader and committed volunteer. As a licensed master social worker, she has worked tirelessly to ensure that families, especially those from marginalized communities, have a voice in decisions that impact their lives. She leads with humility, passion and a steadfast belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. Dorsey embodies the essence of a community servant by living a life of purpose, rooted in helping others. She makes the community stronger not through grand gestures but through consistent, heartfelt service. Raymond Tardy Community Service Award — The Omega Scouts The Omega Scouts are based in the heart of inner-city Grand Rapids and provide opportunities for boys and girls of color that they may not otherwise experience. They leverage the well-established programming of the Boy Scouts to involve youth in activities that build self-esteem and improve personal achievement. The program allows youth to participate with very little money out of pocket. Several Omega Scout leaders were raised in Grand Rapids, and all have college and life experiences that help them relate to young people and encourage them to dream big. Phyllis Scott Activist Award — Shanda Vaughn Shanda Vaughn’s life has centered on improving the lives of youth by organizing families and community members around their success. She is both an advocate and an organizer, fierce when necessary, gentle when needed and always focused on outcomes that lift up the next generation. She models what it means to be deeply invested — not just in words, but in consistent, meaningful action. She has become a trusted champion and mentor for countless young people across Grand Rapids. Her generational impact will reverberate for decades, as young people she mentored are inspired to return and serve their own communities.