Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) is proud to announce the addition of Juan R. Olivarez, Ph.D, to the Board of Directors.
Olivarez brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience. His most recent position was President at Aquinas College, and before that, he was President and CEO for the Kalamazoo Community Foundation, and the President of Grand Rapids Community College. His leadership experience spans 35 years, and his teaching, counseling, and research experience spans over 40—including current roles as a Distinguished Scholar in Research at Grand Valley State University’s Johnson Center for Philanthropy, and Adjunct Professor at Western Michigan University, Michigan State University, Grand Valley State University, and Ferris State University.
He received his Ph.D. from Michigan State University’s College of Human Ecology, and has served as a member of 22 professional and civic organizations and 56 community and professional leadership organizations at the national, state, and local levels—including active membership on Mercy Health Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees, VanAndel Education Institute’s Board of Trustees, VanAndel Institute Graduate School’s Board of Directors, Innovation Network for Communities’ Board of Directors, and the Commissioner for First Steps Kent’s Board of Directors.
Olivarez is also an accomplished speaker, and has won several awards for his professional excellence and community service.
Lake Michigan Credit Union’s President and CEO, Sandy Jelinski, is thrilled to have Olivarez join the board, “Juan has so much amazing experience and has made a strong and meaningful impact at every organization he’s served. It’s rare to find someone with that amount of experience…he’s already shared several ideas and suggestions that we’ll be implementing. We’re so happy to welcome Juan to our board.”
Chairperson of the LMCU Board, Gretchen Tellman, is equally excited, “Juan is going to be an incredible asset to our board because of his extensive board experience—including board leadership, his wisdom,and his commitment to the same values that have made Lake Michigan Credit Union so successful. Additionally, his involvement in the Hispanic community will provide a valuable perspective to the board.”
Olivarez had this to say, “As a member of LMCU for the past 45 years, I’ve witnessed their outstanding growth and achievement as a leader in the industry. I’m honored to be joining the Board of Directors and look forward to serving the organization and membership.”
Juan R. Olivarez, Ph.D