MLK DAY CORPORATE BREAKFAST

Thank You for an Incredible 25th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Corporate Breakfast!

The Urban League of West Michigan is profoundly grateful to everyone who joined us for the 25th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Corporate Breakfast! The sold-out event was a resounding success, bringing together Grand Rapids' and Michigan's most influential leaders to honor Dr. King's enduring legacy.

The morning featured inspiring speeches from distinguished guests, recognition of outstanding community awardees, and a thought-provoking fireside chat panel. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our generous sponsors for their unwavering support, which made this milestone celebration possible.

Highlights from the event:

National Anthem performed by Lisa M. Knight, Second Ward City Commissioner, and Girls Choral Academy.
Greetings from Carlos Cubia (Corewell Health), Sara Armbruster (Steelcase, Inc.), Sonali Allen (Mercantile Bank)
Special Appearances by Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II
Inspirational Words from the ULWM’s CEOs, current and past:
Eric D. Brown, President and CEO, Urban League of West Michigan, 2021- Present
Rev. Mr. Joseph D. Jones, Former President and CEO, Urban League of West Michigan, 2011- 2020
Rev. Dr. Walter M. Brame, Former President and CEO, Urban League of West Michigan, 1978-1992; 1999-2011

Fireside Chat Panel, moderated by Rev. Mr. Joseph D. Jones, featuring key voices advancing equality and justice:
Randy Thelen , President and CEO of The Right Place
Eureka People, President, Housing Kent
Dr. Robert Shorty, Vice President for People, Equity, and Culture, Grand Valley State University
Dr. Khan Nedd, Hospitalist, Health Advocacy Champion, and Founder of Infusion Associates
Eric D. Brown President and CEO, Urban League of West Michigan

Honoring 2025's Award Recipients
Paul I. Phillips Presidential Leadership Award recipients:
Jordoun Eatman, MBA, Vice President Engagement & Inclusion, Experience GR
Dr. Philomena Mantella, President, Grand Valley State University
Eureka People, President, Housing Kent
Lisa M. Knight, Second Ward Commissioner and Executive Director, Girls Choral Academy
Nolan Groce Business Leadership Award recipients:
Harold Burrell, Jr., CIC, Lighthouse Group
MarcQus Wright, Daddy’s Dough Cookies
Jessica Ann Tyson, The Candied Yam
Drum Major for Justice Award recipient:
Dr. Patricia Pulliam, Publisher and Editor of Grand Rapids Times

Please enjoy the gallery of photos below from the event, captured by Isabel Media Studios. Together, we continue to advance Dr. King's vision of equality and justice for all. Thank you to all our sponsors for making this celebration possible.

Mark your calendars for January 19, 2026, for our 26th Annual Breakfast!"

“May I stress the need for courageous, intelligent, and dedicated leadership... Leaders of sound integrity. Leaders not in love with publicity, but in love with justice. Leaders not in love with money, but in love with humanity. Leaders who can subject their particular egos to the greatness of the cause.”

~ Martin Luther King, Jr.