Board of Trustees

If you are passionate about the Forest Hills Public Schools and would like to use your talent to help students achieve lifelong success, we invite you to volunteer for a board position. Please contact the Foundation office if you would like to learn more about our board.

Return to 600 Forest Hill Avenue SE, Grand Rapids MI 49546.

Members of the Board

Heidi Hendricks
Board Chair | Creston Industrial Sales

The FHPS Foundation provides a leading example of our district’s commitment to providing a higher level of education for our students by allowing our educators to provide creative, innovative, and individualistic opportunities for our students that are outside the constraints of State academic funding. Being a part of the bi-annual grant cycle for our teachers has been one of my greatest joys in serving as a Trustee, and I am committed to serving my term as an ambassador for our District and a fierce advocate for the Foundation.

I am extremely honored to be able to represent our Forest Hills Public School community as a Foundation Trustee. My husband Paul and I are proud graduates of Forest Hills Northern High School, and we have enjoyed watching our two children excel at Ada Vista Elementary and Northern Trails. It has been extremely gratifying to stay in the community that we grew up in, and raise our children in the same school district that our parents believed in, as do we. Paul and I are strongly committed to the Grand Rapids community, both professionally and philanthropically. Our Forest Hills Public School education provided opportunities for us to attend Michigan State University, and our family owned business, Creston Industrial Sales, is located in downtown Grand Rapids. In addition to my service as a FHPS Foundation Trustee, I also serve as Board Chair for CASA of Kent County, a host committee member for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and as PTO treasurer for Ada Vista Elementary.

Liz Burnson
Board Vice Chair | Bus. Development Mgr. / Warner, Norcross + Judd

When my husband and I moved to Ada 15 years ago to start our family, we knew we wanted our daughters to grow up in a community surrounded by motivated educators and a caring school system. We’ve found exactly that here in Forest Hills, where our two daughters, now in 8th and 10th grade at Forest Hills Central, are thriving. I believe the Foundation plays a vital role in ensuring this environment continues to flourish. By providing resources that empower teachers to innovate and think creatively, the Foundation helps keep students engaged and inspired, ultimately raising the standard of education across our district.

Professionally, I serve as a Senior Business Development Executive, overseeing my firm’s strategic growth and client engagement initiatives. In this role, I help strengthen relationships, build new partnerships, and guide long-term strategies that drive success. My background spans the corporate and healthcare industries, where I’ve led regional business initiatives and community collaborations focused on growth and innovation.

Beyond my professional work, I am passionate about giving back to the community. I have volunteered with the Thornapple River Association, served as president emeritus of the MSU West Michigan Spartans, participated on the regional council for Inforum, and am an active member of both the Grand Rapids Rotary and the Grand Rapids Economic Club.

I’m honored to serve on the Foundation board and to help support the teachers, students, and programs that make Forest Hills such an exceptional place to learn, grow, and belong.

Samantha Colley
Secretary | Community Volunteer

Samantha Colley brings a unique perspective and unwavering dedication to FHPSF. Hailing from a family of educators, Samantha has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of education and the profound impact its funding has on shaping young minds. This instilled a deep commitment to ensuring every child in our district has access to a quality, enriching educational experience.

Samantha's passion extends beyond personal experience. As a stay-at-home parent with a son enrolled at EMS, who is also a part of the ASD Special Education Program, she is acutely invested in the district's success. In addition to many years of classroom volunteering and being a PTO board member at Orchard View Elementary, she also has been member of the district’s Parent Advisory Council.

She believes that open communication between the district, families, and educational staff is essential for building trust and fostering a collaborative environment. Additionally, Samantha champions increased funding to provide our students with the resources they need to thrive. Recognizing the diverse needs of all learners, she is a vocal proponent for robust special education programs that ensure every child receives the support they deserve.

While her dedication to the board is unwavering, Samantha's commitment extends far beyond the FHPSF. She is an active volunteer within the community, lending her time and expertise to various initiatives that benefit schools and families. When she's not advocating for our students, Samantha finds joy in the simple pleasures of life – curling up with a good book, crafting intricate knitted creations, hitting the links, and traveling with her family.

Matt Osterhaven
Treasurer | Vice President of Finance / Haviland USA

I joined the Forest Hills Foundation Board wanting to give back to the district that has been so impactful in raising our 3 children, who attend Forest Hills Central. Serving on the Board has provided me with the ability to share my talents while also understanding how impactful the Foundation is to Forest Hills Public Schools. The grants and gifts the Foundation can provide through our fundraising is an integral part of what allows Forest Hills to be one of the best districts to raise a family in. It has been so rewarding to work alongside the Board of Trustees, who strive to make a difference in our kids' lives, and future generations of Forest Hills students.

I am the Vice President of Finance at Haviland Enterprises, Inc., where I lead the Finance and IT departments. I am a graduate of Michigan State University, where I received both my undergraduate and master’s degrees. I previously have been involved with the West Michigan Spartans, where I served as the treasurer, the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, serving as the audit committee chair, and the Van Andel Institute.

Ben Kirby
Superintendent | Forest Hills Public Schools

Ben Kirby is an accomplished educational leader with decades of experience in public education. Currently serving as the Superintendent of Forest Hills Public Schools, Ben has a wealth of knowledge and a passion for student success.

Ben's career in education spans over three decades, during which he has held various positions that have shaped his comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape. He began as a sixth-grade teacher in Central Montcalm Public Schools. He spent 24 years with Ionia Public Schools, progressing through many roles, including teacher, coach, middle school assistant principal and principal, high school principal, and associate superintendent. Prior to joining Forest Hills Public Schools in July 2024, Ben served as the Superintendent of Lake Orion Community Schools from 2020. His experience also includes a tenure as assistant superintendent in South Lyon Community Schools, further broadening his administrative Expertise.

A proud Spartan, Ben holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Michigan State University. He furthered his education with a master's in educational leadership from Western Michigan University and an educational specialist degree in educational leadership from Grand Valley State University.

Ben's leadership philosophy centers on the alignment of competence and character. He places high value on relationships, teamwork, and active listening, believing that collaboration with students, staff, parents, and local businesses is crucial to educational success. With his extensive experience, commitment to educational excellence, and collaborative approach, Ben is an exceptional education leader. He builds bright futures for all students, cultivates possibilities, and helps all learners achieve their individual potential.

Jonathan Haga
District Rep | Principal / Central High School

My name is Jonathan Haga, and I am the extremely proud Principal at Central Middle School in FHPS! In addition to this role, I am the Middle Level Rep and Region 9 President for the Michigan Elementary and Middle School Principal Association (MEMSPA) which provides me the opportunity to represent and connect with Administrators, districts, and communities in Kent County and throughout the state. My most important title is that of a husband and father. I have three amazing children (Camden, Lyla, and Beckett) and an amazing partner who supports me along the way (Kristin). I aim to create thriving systems for students, families, and communities to connect, grow, and achieve at very high levels.

I am thrilled to be a part of the FHPSF Board of Trustees as the FHPS Administrative Representative. The partnership between the FHPSF and our schools is strong. I look forward to creating new pathways of communication, support, and advocacy as we continue to work in tandem supporting our students.

I am fortunate to be able to see the impact the foundation has on teachers and students. Our Rangers, Huskies, and Hawks have some of the most innovative teachers, and supports in the state. Many of those are only possible because of the generous support of our donors and the Foundation.

CJ Michaud
School Board Rep | Independent Pharmacist Consultant

Bio Coming Soon!

Azia Mason
Past Chair | Community Volunteer

The health of a community is inseparable from the quality of its local public schools. I believe having a safe, inclusive, high quality environment where all our kids can grow and excel is essential. Thriving schools make for happy families and those families are able to contribute even more to their communities. We are lucky to already have a fantastic school system in Forest Hills. My two girls are in school here and I see the benefits of FHPS every single day.

I also know that such excellence doesn’t happen by itself. Maintaining a high standard of education and evolving to meet the needs of our changing world requires ongoing commitment, dedication and enthusiasm generation to generation. I am excited and honored to be part of this generation’s efforts to make the Forest Hills school system the very best it can be and to help provide the extra support our teachers need to continue to innovate creative new programs.

Maegan Amato
Director, North American Sales / Gabriel North America

My husband Christopher and I have lived in Forest Hills for 10 years. Our daughter Penelope (Pia) and son Merrick are both in elementary school at Forest Hills Eastern.

I hold an MBA in International Business and have spent my professional career leading sales and marketing strategies for global companies in the furniture industry. In addition to my career, I have served time as a board member for the Forest Hills Public Schools Foundation as well as the University of Michigan Health-West, impACT board.

I serve on the Foundation Board because I’m passionate about strengthening our community and making it the best place for my children to grow up. I want to make a meaningful impact while my kids are young and support initiatives that will benefit them, as well as future generations.

Meghan Bisonet
Physician Asst / Corewell Health - Helen Devos Children's Hospital Congenital Heart Center

Bio Coming Soon!

Mike Frey
Director, Channel Development / Steelcase, Inc.

I’m honored to serve on the Forest Hills Public Schools Foundation board, where I can help support the educators and students who make this district such a special place. With two children currently attending Forest Hills Eastern High School, I see every day the positive impact our schools have—not just academically, but in shaping confident, curious, and compassionate young people.

Professionally, I serve as Director of Channel Development at Steelcase, where I help grow and support partner networks across North America. My academic background includes a degree from Michigan State University and an Executive MBA from Notre Dame. But it’s my role as a parent and community member that drives my passion for this work.

I believe deeply in the power of education and the lasting impact great teachers can have. I had educators who inspired me and shaped my life, and I want to help today’s teachers do the same for others. The Foundation’s grants give teachers resources to go beyond the standard curriculum—creating memorable, meaningful learning experiences that help students reach their full potential.

Andrew Kim
Director, North America, Workspace Futures / Steelcase, Inc.

I am currently Director North America of Workspace Futures for Steelcase Inc. where I am responsible for applying human-centered design methods to support new market strategies and product development efforts. My curiosity and passion revolve around the intersection of social behaviors, the built environment and technology. I earned my Master of Design in human-centered design from the Institute of Design, Illinois Tech, where my graduate research was focused on innovation. My undergraduate degree is from Dartmouth College. In addition to being a Forest Hills Foundation board member, I serve on the Virginia Tech, Institute of Creative, Arts and Technology Advisory Board.

I am honored to serve as a Board Trustee. Supporting education is personally meaningful to me. My educational experiences have had significant impact on my life and career, and I come from a family of educators. With three kids in the Forest Hills School District, I’m motivated and enthusiastic in supporting our local schools.

In a constantly changing and complex world, it is important for the local community to support our schools. Schools are vital for enriching the lives of students, preparing them for their future careers, and helping them be informed citizens. Partnership with the local community can help ensure that our schools continue to maintain excellence.

Ben Rapin
Associate VP for IT, Chief Technology Officer / GVSU

Bio Coming Soon!

Jenn Ryan
Community Volunteer

I attended Northwestern University and graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in elementary education. I was a teacher at a democratic free school in Ann Arbor for several years, advising students in many subjects from early literacy and algebra to Spanish and health. I subsequently served on the board of directors for 3 years. Since moving to Forest Hills in 2016 I have been an active volunteer, including 4 years on the Orchard View PTO and 2 years as President. I have also taken on roles with the Parental Advisory Council, Project Charlie, and Citizens for Forest Hills. My husband and I have 3 children in Forest Hills at Orchard View and Eastern, and I spend the rest of my time with them.

The foundation was a natural next step in my involvement with Forest Hills. The foundation is a place I can use my variety of previous roles in education to inform how to best serve the community. As a former teacher, Forest Hills parent, and frequent district volunteer, I can offer a unique perspective as we work to augment student and staff experiences in the district and advocate for all students. My goal in being involved with the foundation is to use this platform to strengthen the public school community. Being a member of the foundation awareness committee allows me to use connections I have made throughout the district to help form stronger bonds among the foundation and FHPS parents, students, staff and administration to work toward that goal.

Supporting the FHPS foundation is one way for the community to show an investment in public schools and ensure that our students have every opportunity to thrive. The grants that the foundation provides to our schools are vital in giving students supplemental experiences that help prepare them for broader experiences after high school. A strong community is reflected in its schools, and the ongoing efforts and enthusiasm of the foundation and its supporters helps to promote that message.

Geoff Sadek
Owner, Principal / Academy Wealth Management

Bio Coming Soon!

Dawn Streng
Community Volunteer

My journey with FHPS began in 2004, when our first child entered kindergarten. Public education has always been a priority to me, as I grew up in a family of public school educators and am a product of such schooling. Also, my professional and volunteer experiences have been rooted in the nonprofit arena.

I have a professional background in nonprofit marketing, development and program execution. I have extensive experience with grant writing and grant management in the government, public and private sectors. I have had four children graduate from FHPS with experiences in Spanish Immersion, Goodwillie, Project Next and Gone Boarding. While my children were students, I volunteered at each school in numerous roles, from president of the Academic Boosters Club to the FHPS 21st Century Immersion Task Force.

I believe our district should provide opportunities preparing our students for the global workforce and supporting our teachers with funding to initiate new programming. My children have graduated, but I believe it is important to continue supporting the FHPS district and the incredible creativity of our amazing teachers.

Mallory Strotheide
Owner / Mortgages with Mallory

Bio Coming Soon!

Matt Toburen
Owner / Nexus Software Solutions

Bio Coming Soon!