Rawsthorne Recognized with Founders’ Award
The late Dr. Larry Rawsthorne, former chief medical officer of Sparrow Health System and a pulmonologist and faculty member at Michigan State University, was recognized with the 2026 Founders’ Award, the highest honor bestowed by the University of Michigan Health-Sparrow.
Rawsthorne devoted more than 40 years to Sparrow, and remembering his dedication to countless patients helped kick off National Volunteer Week. The Founders’ Award is given to a volunteer, community member, retired team member or physician who has made a positive impact on the health of mid-Michigan through their involvement with Sparrow.
Past recipients of the award have included community leaders such as the late MSU hockey coach Ron Mason and Neogen founder James Herbert and wife Judith.
Ruiz Promoted to Assistant Branch Manager
Notre Dame Federal Credit Union promoted Evanna Ruiz to assistant branch manager of its Lansing branch, where she will support branch operations, partner development and member service delivery.
Ruiz brings more than six years of financial services experience to the role, with a background spanning member service, lending support, financial counseling and branch operations. She is recognized for her ability to build strong member relationships, communicate financial concepts clearly, and support both service and organizational goals. Ruiz is also a certified credit union financial counselor.
Maner Named Among Best and Brightest
Maner Costerisan has been named a 2026 West Michigan Best and Brightest Company to Work For, an honor recognizing organizations with strong employee engagement and a high-performing culture.
The recognition comes as Maner Costerisan continues expanding its presence in west Michigan and reflects the people-first values that have long shaped the firm. It also continues a strong workplace legacy in the region: Baker Holtz, which joined Maner Costerisan through a January 2026 merger, earned the Best and Brightest designation for 18 consecutive years before becoming part of the combined firm.
“This recognition is especially meaningful as we continue integrating two strong organizations and expanding our presence in west Michigan,” said Trey Williams, president of Maner Costerisan. “It’s an external validation that our culture remains a priority as we grow — and that our team members feel supported, valued and positioned for long-term success.”
Cooley Honors Graduating Class
Cooley Law School marked a golden milestone, celebrating the 50th anniversary of its first graduating class in 1976, while saluting the Class of 2026 on April 25.
Forty-six juris doctor degrees were presented to members of Cooley Law School’s 2026 class during the commencement ceremony at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts’ Pasant Theatre in East Lansing.
Since opening its doors in 1972 under the leadership of former Michigan Supreme Court Justice Thomas J. Brennan, Cooley Law School has remained committed to providing a rigorous and hands-on legal education that is inclusive and collaborative, preparing students who are confident and future-ready for a career in law.
American 1 Hires Marketing Manager
American 1 Credit Union named Shakayla Zoss as its new marketing manager, bringing a strong background in marketing strategy, public relations and brand development to the credit union’s communications team.
Zoss brings more than eight years of professional experience in marketing and public relations, most recently serving as marketing and branding specialist at Downtown Lansing Inc. In her new role, she will lead marketing initiatives that strengthen brand awareness and deepen engagement with members across American 1 Credit Union’s service areas.
Shakayla Zoss
“Shakayla brings a creative and data-driven approach to marketing that aligns perfectly with our mission and values,” said Kelly Grygiel, vice president of communications at American 1 Credit Union. “Her experience in branding, storytelling, and community-focused communication will help elevate how we connect with our members and the communities we serve.”
Todd Named Vice President of Growth and Marketing
Kentwood Office Furniture announced the promotion of Kaylyn Todd to vice president of growth and marketing. Previously serving as director of business development, her expanded role reflects her growing leadership within the organization and the critical part she will play in the company’s continued evolution.
Kaylyn Todd
In her new position, Todd will lead the company’s overall marketing strategy, working closely with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to strengthen brand presence, drive demand and elevate customer experience. She will also continue to direct sales responsibilities, ensuring she remains closely connected to clients, market opportunities and industry trends.
Sparrow Tech Tapped for Fellowship
A University of Michigan Health-Sparrow patient care technician was selected for a prestigious national fellowship focused on closing gaps in Alzheimer’s disease awareness and care.
Zachariah Hernandez, a nursing student at Oakland University who works in the neuro trauma intensive care unit, was named a fellow in the 2026 Brain Health Equity Nurse Fellowship. For Hernandez, the recognition carries deep personal meaning: He grew up in Lansing near Sparrow, where he now cares for patients.
The program that selected Hernandez is led by UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit dedicated to ending Alzheimer’s disease through prevention, early detection and equitable access to treatment. Each year, the organization sponsors a fellowship that brings together frontline nurses from across the country to learn how to promote brain health in communities at higher risk.
MSUFCU Concludes Record-Breaking Social Series
Michigan State University Federal Credit Union recently concluded its spring 2026 series of The Social at 311, which saw a surge in participation as community members gathered to build local connections.
The three-part series welcomed a total of 240 attendees, doubling the turnout from the previous fall season. To help grow the community spirit, credit union members were encouraged to bring nonmember guests to enjoy an evening of curated local experiences.
“The Social at 311 is about building community,” said Arianna Ridderbusch, vice president of community impact at MSUFCU. “By opening our downtown East Lansing building to hands-on activities and collaborating with local artists, musicians and small businesses, we are creating welcoming experiences that allow members to connect and discover what makes our community special.”
