Happy New Year!

Happy New Year Everyone! We are so happy to start off 2026 with a full calendar of events and a new board. We appreciate everyone who interviewed for our open board positions last month and are thrilled to welcome our new board members!

Board:

President: Shayanne Queen

Vice-President: Delaney Mullenix

Secretary: Stephanie Brown

Treasurer: Ciboney Bridgeman

Director of Membership: Danielle O'Connor

Director of Social Engagement: Miguel Herrera

Director of Professional Development: Kyle McKeown

Director of Community Involvement: Creighton Biddick

Director of Public Relations: Rachael Schuit

Director of Social Media and Marketing: Ann Krapohl

Director of Inclusion and Accessibility: Tenique Tatum

Co Director of Sponsorship and Development: Brandon Donajkowski

Co Director of Sponsorship and Development: Kevin Doherty

Member At Large: Amber Rewa

Legal Counsel: Chad Antuma

UPCOMING EVENTS!

February Unwind

📅Date: Thursday February 19, 2026

⏰Time: 5:30 – 7:30PM

🏢Venue: Silva Bocce Lounge 975 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Join us in February for a fun evening downtown! It will be a great opportunity to meet other young professionals, friends, and network! Silva is a Dinnertainment Complex with a Restaurant, Bar, Bocce Ball Courts, Billiards, Darts, Puzzles, Games, and more! We hope you join us.

🏀 GRYP NIGHT AT THE ARENA 🏀

Kick off the new year with Grand Rapids Young Professionals at the Grand Rapids Gold game on Thursday, January 8th as they take on the College Park Skyhawks at Van Andel Arena!

Important:

• Tickets must be claimed using the link below

• Discount applies at checkout

Event highlights:

• Complimentary game tickets (discount applied at checkout)

• Pre-game networking social (21+)

• Access to the Consumers Credit Union Lounge (21+)

• Connect with fellow young professionals in a relaxed, high-energy setting

Networking: 5:45–7:00 PM

Tip-off: 7:00 PM

Location: Van Andel Arena | Downtown Grand Rapids

Claim tickets here:

www.gofevo.com/event/grandrapids460

Must be 21+ to access the lounge.

Volunteer Opportunities!

If you have ideas for community service opportunities please contact Creighton Biddick at ckbiddick@ft.newyorklife.com

Sponsorship Opportunities!

If your company is interested in sponsoring events, or the monthly newsletter we would love to work with you. Let us know! GRYP can help generate interest in your brand through advertising opportunities to our 5,000+ members and can also provide face to face marketing opportunities with West Michigan young professionals at our monthly unwinds. Please contact us at youngprofessionals.gr@gmail.com!

Don't let the cold weather keep you home! The World of Winter returns to Grand Rapids on January 9th. The 9th annual World of Winter Festival will feature different art installations, special events, and family friendly activities. Learn more here.

Grand Rapids Young Professionals

youngprofessionals.gr@gmail.com | GRYP.org