Join Jennifer Kluge as she welcomes Dr. Richard Pappas, President of Davenport University. With over 40 years of leadership experience, Dr. Pappas will discuss how Davenport is transforming higher education through agile degree programs, strong corporate partnerships, a bold affordability plan, and student outcomes that lead to real jobs. He’ll share personal stories of resilience, lessons from the pandemic, and why happiness and purpose are core to leadership and life.
Nomination Deadline: August 1st, 2025
Join us for the Salute to Civility & Inclusion in the Workplace Awards and Conference — a powerful gathering that honors organizations and individuals who champion respect and belonging in professional environments. This event brings together thought leaders, changemakers, and advocates to celebrate the impact of inclusive workplace cultures and to explore innovative strategies that foster civility and collaboration.
A media savvy speaker and compelling leadership trainer, Scott Deming is also a veteran businessman, board member, marketer and community volunteer. He has been changing company cultures for 30 years with his unique approach to critical thinking and value-driven branding. He speaks, trains and consults with the largest and smallest companies in the world, helping them to create cultures that matter and cultures that last. Deming’s new book, Powered by Purpose, can be found at Barnes & Noble as well as on Amazon.com and other booksellers. He can be reached at www.scottdeming.com.
West Michigan's top business leaders were on hand to be honored as the Best and Brightest companies in the region, and to offer advice on how to reach that level of success.