Mantella interviews 2 former U.S. presidents, caps milestone year chairing Economic Club

President Philomena V. Mantella capped her term as Board Chair of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids with a historic career milestone — welcoming and interviewing former U.S. presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. 

The June 2 discussion she led was part of the club’s 50th Anniversary celebration at DeVos Place. The 37th Annual Dinner, attended by more than 3,500 people, brought the two former presidents to Grand Rapids for a conversation on leadership, civility and the future of the nation. 

The event also honored Mark J. Bissell, as recipient of the 2026 Businessperson of the Year Award, and the DeVos Family as recipients of the  Slykhouse  Community Leadership Award. 

“Sharing the stage with two former presidents and having the opportunity to celebrate Mark Bissell and the DeVos Family was truly the honor of a lifetime,” Mantella said. “Serving as chair of The Econ Club during this milestone year has inspired and challenged me while also driving home the importance of stewardship of organizations that build community while nurturing and celebrating leadership.”