Grand Rapids, MI – Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids, under the leadership of Board Chair Elizabeth Wilson, is expanding its Board of Directors with the addition of two new members.
“Adding to our Board of Directors is always exciting because it allows us to bring in new perspectives, expertise, and connections that help guide our organization,” said Jill Wallace, President and CEO of Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids. “As we look ahead to continued growth, including the addition of a new store in Caledonia in 2027, having a diverse and engaged Board will be essential to understanding the evolving needs of the communities we serve and identifying new opportunities that will allow us to make an even greater impact.”
Joining the Board are:
Dr. Leslie Neal currently works as full-time faculty at Montcalm Community College, teaching Communication courses. She started her post-secondary teaching career at Grand Rapids Community College in 2010, working as an adjunct instructor for the college’s Language and Thought department. She believes that helping people develop effective communication skills is one of the most meaningful aspects of her work. In her time away from the classroom, she and her spouse find delight in raising their two children in the Greater Grand Rapids area and traveling when they can.
“Joining the Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids Board of Directors is a full circle moment, as I first learned how to be an effective board member through its Young Leaders program,” Dr. Neal said. “I am grateful for the early training, as it has guided my service on numerous boards throughout the years. It is especially meaningful to now serve in this role while representing both Montcalm and Kent Counties, giving back to an organization that helped shape my leadership journey and commitment to community service.”
Floyd Wilson III is the Major Gift Officer at John Ball Zoo, where he builds meaningful relationships and connects people with opportunities to make a lasting impact. Floyd is passionate about serving others, strengthening his community, and supporting initiatives that create opportunities for future generations. He and his wife live in Grand Rapids with their four children.
“I first connected with Goodwill’s mission, ‘changing lives and communities through the power of work,’ during my college internship with the organization in 2012,” Wilson said. “More than a decade later, I am honored to serve alongside its leaders and contribute my skills, knowledge, and experience to strengthening lives, creating opportunities, and building a brighter future for generations to come.”
With the addition of Dr. Neal and Wilson, Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids enters the coming year with a growing Board of Directors and a continued focus on serving individuals with barriers to employment throughout the region. As the organization prepares for its next chapter of growth, the Board will play an important role in helping Goodwill expand opportunities for people to find meaningful work, build skills, and achieve greater independence.
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About Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids
Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids, Inc. is a nonprofit organization committed to changing lives and strengthening communities through the power of work. Since 1966, we have provided comprehensive job training and placement programs, helping individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment develop the skills they need for meaningful careers. Our mission is funded through the support of 18 retail stores across a five-county region and generous monetary donations.