GVSU leader joins Grand Haven foundation to strengthen operations, community impact

The Grand Haven Area Community Foundation is expanding its leadership team with a new position to meet increasing community needs.

Amirah Vosburgh is GHACF’s new executive vice president and chief operating officer, overseeing staffing, programming, and grantmaking. 

The expansion of this work over the past five years has prompted a greater need for internal systems, operational efficiency, and coordinated storytelling to support long-term community impact.

“I’ve always done systems work, building things,” Vosburgh says. “Every role I’ve been in has been a new one that hasn’t existed.”

Extensive experience

Vosburgh brings more than 16 years of experience from Grand Valley State University, where she helped launch and scale multiple departments within the university’s charter schools office. 

She also founded the nonprofit tutoring organization EQPD, formerly known as GVSU K-12 Connect, which has grown to more than 900 contracted staff statewide. The organization was designed to address gaps in K–12 academic support by connecting schools with trained tutors.

Vosburgh says her interest in foundation work grew through years of collaborating with philanthropic partners.

“I’ve always, in the back of my mind, thought I would love to be a part of foundation work someday,” she says. “When this position opened up, I jumped at the opportunity because it was a chance to merge my skills with something I care deeply about: community improvement, well-being, and planning.”

Vosburgh oversees internal operations, including marketing, human resources, administration, facilities, and operational efficiencies. 

“Because it’s new, it might look different in five years,” she says. “My hope is that this role fills a need wherever that need is. Right now, the need is marketing: really telling our story better to the community about the work we’re doing, the donors investing, and the impact it’s making.”

She is also working to streamline internal systems so staff can keep pace with increased grantmaking and community partnerships.

“As we grow, it’s about making sure people can work smarter, not harder,” she says.

Helping guide growth

Foundation President and CEO Hadley Streng says the addition of an operations-focused executive supports the organization’s long-term strategy.

“Amirah’s leadership and expertise will be instrumental as we continue to enhance organizational efficiencies, expand our reach, and deepen our impact,” Streng says. “Her focus on innovation and operational excellence aligns with where the foundation is headed.”

Board Chair Mary Carole Cotter says Vosburgh’s experience will help the foundation navigate growth while staying rooted in community needs.

“Amirah’s proven track record and passion for community will help shape the foundation’s next chapter,” Cotter says.

In recent years, the foundation has added eight positions to support increased activity and investment across northern Ottawa County and the broader West Michigan region.

“The common theme I hear is the community and the impact we’re making,” Vosburgh says. “We’re doing good, and we’re able to do good because this community cares deeply and shows up.”

The foundation’s leadership team also includes Patty MacDonald, vice president of finance; Amy Moore, vice president of grants and programs; and Chris Riker, vice president of advancement and donor services.

Vosburgh officially assumed the role Jan. 5.

Youth sports volunteer

Outside of her professional work, Vosburgh is active in youth sports.

The mother of three sons, ages 16, 14, and 10, says growing up as the only girl among brothers prepared her well for both environments.

“Boys are my jam,” says Vosburgh, whose first name translates to princess in Arabic, reflecting her dad’s Arab heritage. “I don’t know if I’d know how to raise a daughter.”

A longtime basketball fan and former high school player, Vosburgh also co-founded the 

nonprofit youth basketball organization Jenison Wild. The group has grown to 11 teams competing seasonally. 

Her volunteerism makes her a better leader, she says. 

“Basketball teaches you how to build teams, adapt quickly, and create structure so people can succeed,” she says.