Feature Stories
Clyde "Bill" Hardiman, '77
Michigan State Senator and former Mayor of Kentwood Bill Hardiman, ’77 graduated from Grand Valley State University with a bachelor’s degree in public administration and behavioral sciences. He continued to Western Michigan University where he earned his M.A. the following year.
During his college career, Hardiman worked as an administrative aide
and as an employment services counselor for the Ottawa County
Department of Employment Training. Before becoming an elected
official, Hardiman held positions for Kent County Community Mental
Health, Hope Rehabilitation Network, and as Vice President of
Rehabilitation for Goodwill Industries of Grand Rapids.
Hardiman was elected Mayor of Kentwood in 1992. During his term,
Hardiman worked to balance the city’s budget while maintaining one of
the lowest city tax rates in Michigan. He was also focused on
faith-based community organizations to encourage tutoring and
mentoring for at-risk students.
As a Senator for Michigan’s
29th district, Hardiman is an advocate for human rights issues. He has
served on numerous committees and subcommittees for families,
education, and economic labor. He has also been the recipient of
awards such as the St. John’s Home Advocate of the Year Award, Dads
and Moms of Michigan Legislator of the Year Award, Michigan Nonprofit
Association Volunteer Spirit Award, Michigan Fatherhood Coalition
Outstanding Public Service Award, and several more.
Hardiman
lives in Kentwood with his wife.
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