Michigan has a special place in Heather’s heart. It’s where she spent her college years, has family, and—of course—has beautiful Lake Michigan. After living in several places across the globe, Heather—a self-proclaimed “lifelong learner and connector”—recently boomeranged back to West Michigan. The sense of community in West Michigan is one aspect that attracted her back to the region.

“Whether it’s someone you’ve known for years, or a perfect stranger, there’s a sense of comradery and kindness that exudes,” Heather says.

Originally from the east side of Michigan, Heather moved to West Michigan for college. She attended Grand Valley State University, where she studied English. During her collegiate years, she enveloped herself in West Michigan and experienced all that it has to offer.

Upon graduation, Heather taught for a decade in several cities, including Stellenbosch, South Africa; Naples, Florida; and Grand Haven here in West Michigan. Eventually, Heather moved to Oregon, where she transitioned from teaching to be a brand ambassador for a critically acclaimed winery.

As a lifelong learner, teacher, and connector, her experiences led Heather to her role at Northwestern Mutual in Grand Rapids as an Executive Recruiter. She was warmly welcomed by her colleagues and is already able to use her passions and gifts to connect with people. In her role, she loves building meaningful relationships with partners and members of the West Michigan network. Heather is excited to help strengthen the financial wellbeing of the Grand Rapids community.

Now back in West Michigan, she is close to family. She also loves her proximity to downtown Grand Rapids and being a short drive away from Lake Michigan—a place she grew to love during her teaching years in Grand Haven.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, hiking and being outdoors, especially at the beach.

As she is adjusting back to West Michigan, Heather enjoys discovering new small businesses and revisiting her favorites. Her restaurant recommendations include: Bistro Bella Vita, Rose’s on Reed’s Lake, The Winchester, and Grand Armory Brewing in Grand Haven.

For Heather, her career and family brought her back to West Michigan. She is excited to build roots in the region.