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SUMMARY:From West Michigan to the World: The Global Economy at Home with Randy Thelen and Bradley T. French
DESCRIPTION:We welcome Randy Thelen\, President & CEO of The Right Place and Bradley T. French\, Member and Chief Strategy Officer\, Bodman PLC. \n  \n  \nFrom manufacturing exports and international investment to supply chains and trade policy\, global forces play a powerful role in shaping regional economic futures. How do the current global economic trends affect our current and future prosperity in West Michigan? In this conversation\, Randy Thelen\, President & CEO of The Right Place\, and Bradley T. French\, Member and Chief Strategy Officer at Bodman PLC\, explore the relationship between international markets and local opportunities. Drawing on their work with companies expanding and investing in the region\, they will discuss how global economic trends influence job creation\, innovation\, and long-term prosperity for businesses and residents alike. Join us for an engaging discussion on why West Michigan’s place in the global economy matters—and how a vibrant regional economy can benefit the entire community. \n  \nA reception for this event will take place from 5:15 – 6pm. Join us and meet other community members interested in the world. \n  \nLocation and Parking \nThe program will take place at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI 49504). \nFree parking is available. \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \nOur Supporters \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Special thanks to Recording sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center \n  \nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/from-west-michigan-to-the-world-the-global-economy-at-home-with-randy-thelen-and-bradley-t-french/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SIX_95A5F3EA-143A-4D0C-A243-5A694041B457.jpeg
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