Communicator of the Year

Now an anticipated annual tradition, each April Interchange presents its Communicator of the Year Award to recognize a community leader or team of leaders who demonstrated effective, dynamic communication efforts in his or her organization and community.

These individuals or teams of individuals are chosen because of their excellent work as communicators. Their efforts exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and have contributed directly to the informing and enriching of our community. The recipient of the Communicator of the Year Award does not have to be an Interchange member.

Suggestions for nominations are welcome throughout the season. Please send your suggestions to any of the Board Members of Interchange for our consideration.

Click here for the Nomination Form (Word document).

Past Recipients

2009

Spectrum Health Communications Team

Effective communication response to May 2009 AeroMed accident

2008

Dr. Bernard Taylor, Jr.

Grand Rapids Public Schools Superintendent

2007

Martin Allen, Jr., Elaine K. Didier, Ph.D., and James Kratsas

Memorial and Funeral of President Gerald R. Ford

2006

Dr. Gaylen Byker & June Hammersma,
The Petra Exhibit at Calvin College

2005

Paul Haan
Project Coordinator for Get the Lead Out!

2004

Steve Wilson
Grand Rapids/Kent County Convention & Visitors Bureau

2003

Bert Bleke
Grand Rapids Public Schools Superintendent

2002

Bruce Schedlbauer
Kent County Department of Aeronautics

2001

Juan Olivarez
Grand Rapids Community College President

2000

Ari Adler
Michigan Department of Transportation

1999

Jim O'Neil
The Paper

1998

Dirk Koning

Grand Rapids Community Media Center

1997

Shirley VanHoeven
Western Michigan University

1996

Judy Tremore
Metro Woman Magazine

1995

Deb Zondervan
Dispute Resolution Center

The Association for West Michigan Communication Professionals