Muskegon Innovation Hub

(616) 331-6908 • [email protected]

Tom serves as the Executive Director at the Hub, helping businesses turn bright ideas into marketable products and services. He has been an entrepreneur, been co-inventor on several patents, brought successful new products to market, and developed new business processes that saved millions of dollars. With three decades of experience in innovation, Tom whips business visions into shape by bridging the technical side of development with big-picture business goals. Outside of the Hub, you can find Tom spending time with his family in Michigan's great outdoors or reading up on the latest science discoveries and current events.

What advice would you give to entrepreneurs or startups?

“Focus on getting your product to market sooner rather than later. You generate income and deliver a better product only when customers are buying from you.”

(616) 331-6916 • [email protected]

Jen helps entrepreneurs and business owners turn ideas into action, navigate challenges, and build businesses positioned for growth. As Assistant Director, she connects entrepreneurs with the resources, experts, programs, funding opportunities, and relationships they need to move their businesses forward. She also manages the Business Accelerator Fund for advanced technology businesses and leads operations for the Hub’s coworking space, CoLaunch.

A three-time entrepreneur, Jen brings firsthand experience in entrepreneurship, marketing and communications, project management, real estate sales, brick-and-mortar business ownership, community development, and business coaching. A Licensed Certified Professional Coach (CPC) and Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner (ELI-MP), she also holds an Entrepreneur Center Management (ECM) Certificate from InBIA. Jen combines practical business experience with a coaching approach that helps entrepreneurs gain clarity, identify opportunities, and take their next step.

Jen holds a B.A. in Communication Studies from Western Michigan University and has served as a planning commissioner, city council member, and on numerous boards and committees focused on community and economic development. She is committed to empowering entrepreneurs and championing their journey.

What most excites you most about working at the Hub?

"The energy. The hub is the place where people, ideas, and possibilities collide. That kind of momentum and enthusiasm is contagious. I am excited to build programs and connections that empower people, create a sense of community and placemaking, and inspire others to make waves!"

(616) 331-6905 • [email protected]

Linda serves as the Hub assistant, providing support to the administrative staff for the planning, coordination and implementation of projects, events, resources, services and systems, while overseeing front desk operations. Linda holds a Bachelor of Science degree from GVSU in Interdisciplinary Studies with emphasis in Leadership Studies. With over 12 years' experience at GVSU, Linda has been the primary administrative liaison for various GVSU initiatives such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration and Teach-In steering committees. Linda enjoys spending time with her parents and granddaughters, traveling, attending summer concerts and walking on the beach.

What do you love about living in Muskegon?

"State parks, miles of beaches, summer festivities and relaxing in my backyard."

(616) 331-6906 • [email protected]

Cyndi joined the Hub in March 2024 as Community Empowerment Manager, bringing her passion for education and connecting people to resources. Originally from Tennessee, she earned her Bachelor's and Master's (ABT) in Psychology from Austin Peay State University. She began her career counseling children and families before moving to Muskegon in 2000, where she shifted to education, earning a Master's in Education with a Mathematics focus from Aquinas College. She worked in workforce development at Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids, managing the Michigan Prisoner Re-Entry and Pathways Out of Poverty Grant before overseeing all Youth Services. She later advanced into economic development as Associate Dean of Workforce and Talent Development at Muskegon Community College. She serves on the Board of Directors for Goodwill Industries of West Michigan and is a past board chair for Read Muskegon. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring Lake Harbor Park or planning her next adventure—preferably swimming with sea turtles.

What are your favorite things about Muskegon?

“Spring, Summer and Fall! The people, specifically the collaboration to make this community amazing.”

(616) 331-6900 • [email protected]

Tom manages maintenance and operations at the Grand Valley State University (GVSU) Grand Rapids and Regional Centers. He is the go-to person for all things facility-related at the Hub. He coordinates the set-up and teardown process for all events and makes sure that the facility is in tip-top shape on a day-to-day basis. Before joining GVSU, Tom worked as a baker for 30 years. He also enjoys giving back to the community through his volunteer work at Muskegon Area People and a local cat shelter. Outside of work, you can find Tom playing music on the weekends with the Carl Webb Band or teaching electronics to guitar makers at the Galloup School of Lutherie in Big Rapids.

What are your favorite things about Muskegon?

“The Lakeshore is a great Muskegon asset. The weather is perfect in the summer — there is no reason to travel anywhere else.”

(616) 331-6900 • [email protected]

Martha has been one of the Front Desk Receptionists at the Hub since December, 2018. She greets and directs community visitors, Hub members and assists the administrative staff. Martha earned her Bachelor of Arts from Grand Valley and Master of Arts from the State University of New York, SUNY Binghamton. Prior professional positions include politics, corporate and nonprofit positions, owning a small arts entertainment business and founding The Colburn Insurance Agency. Outside of work Martha can be found spending time loving the Lake Michigan beaches, walking or in her kayak.

(616) 331-6900 • [email protected]

Sandra serves as a front desk support staff member, welcoming Hub members and visitors. Her responsibilities include directing them to events, meetings, or other support staff to address their questions and concerns. Prior to her current role, Sandra spent 11 years at GVSU's campus, working in the CLAS Advising Center, where she collaborated with advisors to prepare students for upcoming semesters. Additionally, she has 25 years of experience as an office manager at Fifth Third Bank. Outside of work, Sandra enjoys spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also has a passion for camping, outdoor walks, and travel. When asked about living in Muskegon, Sandra describes it as a hidden gem. She appreciates the beaches, the beautiful scenery, and the summer activities the area offers.