Davenport University Names New Board of Trustees Leadership

Paula Cunningham, state director of AARP of Michigan, has accepted the position of chairman of the Davenport University Board of Trustees in Grand Rapids, effective immediately. Michelle Van Dyke, president of Heart of West Michigan United Way, was named vice chair.
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Paula Cunningham
Paula Cunningham
Michelle Van Dyke
Michelle Van Dyke

Paula Cunningham, state director of AARP of Michigan, has accepted the position of chairman of the Davenport University Board of Trustees in Grand Rapids, effective immediately. Michelle Van Dyke, president of Heart of West Michigan United Way, was named vice chair.

“Over the years, these two incredibly accomplished executives have contributed repeatedly to Davenport University’s work toward our 2025 vision,” says Richard J. Pappas, president of Davenport University. “We’re thrilled they’ve agreed to lead our board of directors, applying their business acumen to higher education.”

Cunningham works as the state director for AARP Michigan, a nonprofit, nonpartisan social welfare organization. Prior to joining AARP Michigan, Cunningham was the CEO of Capitol National Bank. She also served as president of Lansing Community College and the Administration Building on campus was named in her honor. Cunningham has served on the Davenport University board since 2015.

“I’m committed to Davenport’s Vision 2025 and its work to deliver a quality education to all students, regardless of circumstance,” says Cunningham.

As vice chair, Van Dyke will be tasked with supporting Cunningham. She currently heads the board finance committee.

“It’s energizing to elevate my involvement with Davenport at a time when the university is experiencing strategic growth,” says Van Dyke.

Van Dyke joined Heart of Michigan United Way in 2016. Prior to that, she was in the banking industry, serving as president and CEO of Fifth Third Bank, Western Michigan. She has worked for children’s causes throughout West Michigan. Van Dyke joined the Davenport University Board of Trustees in 2004.