Grand Rapids Clubs Honors Steecase's Hackett

May 29, 2012  by in UnCategorized   

By Home Furnishings Business in Special Events on May 30, 2012

The Economics Club of Grand Rapids has named Steelcase President and CEO James Hackett Business Person of the Year.

The award was instituted to honor a leading executive from a leading and/or large employer in Grand Rapids who has made significant contributions for the betterment of the community and is individually recognized as an influential business leader. The club recognized Hackett at its annual dinner meeting Tuesday.

"Under Hackett's leadership, Steelcase has reached many milestones, including its 100 year anniversary earlier this year. James has been a longtime supporter of our organization and a pillar in our community for decades," said Lorna D. Schultz, executive director for the Economic Club of Grand Rapids. "His business acumen, exuberant leadership style, and philanthropic efforts with organizations like West Michigan Center for Arts & Technology and Grand Rapids University Prep Academy made him an obvious choice for Business Person of the Year."

The reception and dinner featured remarks from former Prime Minister Tony Blair of the United Kingdom. Blair also participated in a moderated discussion about his political and philanthropic efforts in the Middle East and his work furthering the mission of the Tony Blair Faith Foundation, which aims to promote respect and understanding about the world's major religions and show how faith is a powerful force for good in the modern world.