The Grand Rapids Chamber has named Jeff Connolly, Senior Vice President & President, West Michigan & Upper Peninsula for Blue Cross, Blue Shield of Michigan, chair of the organization’s board of directors for 2022.
First serving on the board from 2009-2014, Connolly was re-elected in 2017 and served as incoming chair in 2021. He was announced to the West Michigan business community yesterday at the Chamber’s 134th Annual Meeting.
“Jeff is no stranger to the Chamber and has played such a helpful role in shaping our organization. We’re proud to have him leading the way at this important time for the business community,” states Grand Rapids Chamber President and CEO Rick Baker. “He truly understands the importance of our work and we know he will bring determination, knowledge and compassion to the forefront of all that he does.”
Connolly has a message for his tenure. “Think of the Chamber as your portal to the local business community. The place to know and understand the issues and local policies that will impact business – and that of others. The place to improve the health of your business and the hub of professional development.”
Connolly’s chairmanship duties for the Grand Chamber extend through the end of 2022.
The Grand Rapids Chamber also welcomed four new board of directors who represent a diverse array of industries. They are:
- Krista Flynn, Regional President, Huntington Bank
- David Leonard, Senior Vice President, Strategic Partnerships and Chief Legal Officer, Spectrum Health
- Isaac Norris, Principal, Architect, & Owner, Isaac Norris Architects
- Natalie Stewart, Vice President of Government and Public Affairs, SWITCH
“Our board plays a crucial role in developing our strategy and business advocacy efforts locally and in Lansing,” said Connolly. “Members serve on various committees that research key topics and define positions for adoption by the board each. We look forward to all their guidance and contributions.”
More than 23 individuals from member companies make up the Grand Rapids Chamber Board. They are presidents, CEOs and high-level executives from organizations throughout the community. All new board members will serve three-year terms through 2024.
