The World Affairs Council of Western Michigan today announces a series of leadership transitions, including the retirement of Executive Director Michael Van Denend, the appointment of Erica Kubik, Ph.D., as Executive Director, and the hiring of Emily Smith as Director of Programming & Community Engagement.
After almost a decade of leadership and service, Executive Director Michael Van Denend retires from the Council on July 1. Since joining the organization in 2017, Michael has played a pivotal role in advancing the Council’s mission and expanding its impact throughout West Michigan.
Among his many accomplishments, Michael established the Council’s annual Vandenberg Prize Event, which has recognized distinguished global leaders including most recently General H.R. McMaster, Ambassador (ret.) Nicholas Burns, and Ambassador (ret.) Bridget Brink. He also created the Hillman-Orr Award, honoring local individuals and organizations whose work reflects the Council’s commitment to fostering global awareness and international understanding in West Michigan. This past year, we were grateful to honor Kim Dabbs, formerly Global Vice President of Impact at Steelcase.
“Michael’s leadership strengthened the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan’s role as a trusted forum for global engagement and international understanding,” said Kristina Munsters, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Through his vision and dedication, he expanded the Council’s reach and impact throughout the region while building on the strong foundation established by those who came before him. We are profoundly grateful for his service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”
Following a thoughtful succession planning process, the Board of Directors unanimously appointed Erica Kubik, Ph.D., as Executive Director, effective July 1.
Erica has served as the Council’s Director of Programming since 2015, where she was responsible for developing and delivering hundreds of programs that connected West Michigan audiences with leading voices in international affairs. Drawing on an extensive network of diplomats, journalists, policy experts, business leaders, and academics, she built a nationally recognized speaker roster that brought timely, credible, and non-partisan perspectives on global issues to the community. She worked closely with educators, community leaders, and volunteers to ensure the Council’s programs remained relevant, accessible, and impactful.
Under Erica’s leadership, the Council’s Great Decisions program earned recognition from the national World Affairs Councils of America network for its innovative approach to public engagement and global education. Her commitment to thoughtful dialogue, intellectual curiosity, and civic engagement has helped position the Council as a trusted source for understanding the world and its impact on West Michigan.
As Executive Director, Erica will build on this foundation by leading the Council’s strategic vision, partnerships, and organizational growth while continuing to champion opportunities for global learning and civil discourse throughout the community.
“I am deeply grateful to Michael for his leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to the Council over the past decade,” said Kubik. “He leaves behind an organization that is stronger, more visible, and more impactful because of his service. Having spent the last eleven years helping to shape the Council’s programming and educational initiatives, I am honored to step into this role and excited to work alongside our board, members, sponsors, and community partners as we continue to bring the world to West Michigan.”
With Erica’s appointment, the Council conducted a thorough search process to identify its next Director of Programming. The Board of Directors and staff are pleased to welcome Emily Smith as Director of Programming & Community Engagement.
A former member of the Council’s staff, Emily returns with extensive experience in program leadership, events, and community engagement, including leadership roles with Corewell Health and the Grand Rapids Chamber. Her expertise in Cultural Intelligence (CQ®), global learning and leadership development, and cross-sector collaboration will strengthen the Council’s ability to deliver exceptional programming and foster meaningful community connections.
“The opportunity to return to the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan and be part of this incredible team advancing global understanding and supporting thoughtful, non-partisan programming is truly an honor,” said Smith. “I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to help carry the torch of global engagement and understanding forward at such an important time.”
“Erica’s vision, experience, and deep understanding of the Council’s mission make her exceptionally well positioned to lead the organization into its next chapter,” said Munsters. “We are equally excited to welcome Emily back to the Council. Together, they represent a powerful combination of continuity, expertise, and fresh energy that will help advance our mission for years to come.”
