- Monday, March 27, 2017
- 3:30 PM–5:00 PM
- Chapel Sanctuary
Panel discussion: Ken Bergwerff (Geology, Geography & Environmental Studies/Jamestown Township Supervisor), Emily Post Brieve (Kent County Commissioner), Winnie Brinks (State Representative, Michigan House of Representatives), and Wendy VerHage Falb (Grand Rapids Public Schools Board Member). Moderated by Douglas Koopman (Political Science/Former Congressional Aide)
A panel of political experts and elected officials reflects on what it takes to get things done in government. What are the biggest challenges faced by office holders? What kinds of skills are required for the job? What are the compelling issues that need attention?
About the panelists
Ken Bergwerff is assistant professor of geology, geography and environmental studies, and his current teaching focuses on science for educators. He also serves as Jamestown Township Supervisor.
Emily Post Brieve has served as County Commissioner for Kent County since 2015. She has also served as a Legislative Assistant for the Michigan House of Representatives.
Winnie Brinks is a Democratic member of the Michigan House of Representatives, serving since 2013. Before serving in elected office, she worked as an executive at a non-profit. She serves as Michigan Democratic Caucus Policy Chair.
Wendy VerHage Falb is a board member for Grand Rapids Public Schools. With a BA in Education from Calvin and a PhD in English, she has experience in schools in and out of the classroom and is an active member of the GRPS community. She is also the Executive Director of the Literacy Center of West Michigan.
Douglas Koopman (Moderator) is professor of political science. Before coming to Calvin, he worked in Washington, D.C. as a senior aide in personal, committee and leadership offices in the U.S. House and Senate.
About the Just Citizenship series
This series has been organized by the Dean for Research and Scholarship under the Provost's Faith and Citizenship Initiative.
What does it mean for Christians to think deeply and act justly in this time of political uncertainty? Just Citizenship is a weekly series of interdisciplinary lectures and panel discussions addressing current issues and asking how Christians can work for renewal in society. Join us in the Chapel each Monday at 3:30 during the spring semester; all of these events are free and open to the public. Find out more about the series and related events.
The Just Citizenship series has been approved for State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECH) in the state of Michigan. For every forum you attend, you can earn one clock hour of SCECH credit for certificate renewal. For more information and a SCECH application form, please visit our homepage for the series.
