Seidman Alumni Board Spotlight - John Grahs
Professional Journey Quick Facts:
- After completing my MBA at Seidman, I changed industries and built a great technology team at Kent Power in Rockford.
How has Seidman had a role in your journey?
The knowledge and skills acquired while at Grand Valley have been instrumental in propelling my personal and professional growth.
When did you graduate?
MBA - 2013
Where are you from?
I grew up in the small town of Kent City, Michigan. After a few brief stints in the far reaches of the state, I've spent the last 25 years on The Ridge near Sparta.
What do you do for fun?
I love spending time outdoors in any capacity, except maybe cutting the grass. Snowshoeing, hiking, and playing golf top my list of favorites. If I had my way, I'd never drive past a TopGolf location without stopping to play for an hour or two.
John's Advice
"Pursue your passion. We're blessed to live in a country where we have the freedom to choose our careers, and a Seidman degree amplifies those opportunities. I'll echo Mark Twain's advice - find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life."
Tell Us More...
What has been the most significant professional outcome that came as a result of your GVSU degree from Seidman College?
My undergraduate was in engineering, so I've always approached my work with an engineer's mindset. The lessons learned pursuing an MBA, both in and out of the classroom, have diversified my thinking and given me a more holistic view of the businesses that I serve.
If you could pick any job, what would it be?
If I could choose any job, it would have to be professional golfer. Outdoors every day, travelling everywhere, and somebody else carrying my clubs... and I'd magically be a whole lot better at golf. Hard to see the downside.