Northern Michigan University 1985 marketing alumna Barbara Benda was hired to fill a new position as director of development with the West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC). She is focused primarily on supporting the $11 million “Winning Streak for West Michigan” expansion campaign for the Meijer Sports Complex, and on overall development work for the WMSC.
“Joining the West Michigan Sports Commission as director of development, I am excited about creating opportunities to enrich lives and develop partnerships in our community through sports," said Benda, who resides in Rockford. "I am honored to contribute to the WMSC's mission. I was a hockey, lacrosse and soccer mom for many years and thoroughly enjoyed watching my kids compete. I look forward to cheering on participants at the Meijer State Games and players at the Meijer Sports Complex, while knowing our work will sustain this activity and grow our economy.”
“Adding Barbara Benda in the newly created role of director of development is critical to the growth of the West Michigan Sports Commission,” said WMSC President Mike Guswiler. “Her extensive fundraising and development experience is instrumental in not only helping us reach our $11 million fundraising goal for the Meijer Sports Complex expansion, but also in growing our Victory Lap Community Fund established to impact local sports programming that supports underserved communities.”
Benda brought 25-plus years of fundraising experience to her new role. She previously served seven years at Ferris State University, as executive director of leadership giving and relationships, then added the role of associate director of the Ferris Foundation.
As a professional fundraiser, Benda's work also includes the Helen DeVos Children's Hospital Foundation and Habitat for Humanity of Kent County. She is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE).