Ricardo Benavidez is based at Ktisis Capital where he serves as a strategist, advisor, and project manager for a diverse mix of individuals and foundations and manages the Ktisis Capital communications portfolio. He also serves as strategist and communications director for the West Michigan Progress PAC and is on the adjunct faculty at Grand Valley State University, teaching courses on belonging and inclusive & visionary leadership. Ricardo’s public service work keeps him tied to his West Michigan roots. He currently serves as a Co-chair of the Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s LGBTQ Fund, was appointed by the mayor as Vice- Chair of the City of Grand Rapids’ Community Relations Commission, is the President of the board of directors at Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities, and Chairs the Student Senate team of the GVSU Alumni Champions program.

Terria L. Crank is a native of the westside of Detroit, MI and has a Bachelor of Science in Women & Gender studies with a minor in African American studies ‘16 and a Masters in Higher Education ‘20, both from Grand Valley State University. She is currently working on her Master of Divinity at Candler School of Theology at Emory University where her focus of study is the advancement and engagement of Black LGBTQ+ Folk in the church. Terria works at Michigan State University as the Student Engagement Coordinator for the Detroit M.A.D.E Scholars Program. In addition to working at a Big Ten University, she recently turned her passion project into a new business called “TeeCrankSpeaks”.  Terria uses her student affairs background and personal experience as a first-generation college graduate to help students navigate all facets as they transition from high school into college as well as supporting current college students with personal, academic and professional development through her services of professional speaking, facilitation, and educational consulting. She is passionate about helping students turn their big picture goals into tangible outcomes and reality. Outside of her work and school, she enjoys traveling with her wife, Kambriana, and spending time with their furry best friend, MoMo.

Margie Muñoz is a clinical mental health counselor in Grand Rapids specializing in complex trauma in teens and adults. Margie was born in Colombia and grew up in Mexico and Germany before moving to the US in high school. As a third culture kid and Latina immigrant, Margie is interested in contributing to spaces that support others in existing as their whole, nuanced, selves. Margie graduated from GVSU in 2015 with a BA in WGS and Communication Studies.

As part of our commitment to sustainability, WGS decided to highlight Chica Bean Coffee which empowers women through economic, educational, and practical support. Chica Bean coffee is produced and roasted by women using eco-friendly practices in rural Guatemala. Their practices allow them to deliver amazing coffee while the producers are paid just prices that benefit the entire community. Check out more about Chica Bean here!

Continuing with our commitment to sustainability, we are also highlighting GentleDaisySoapCo which is a local, women-owned business. GentleDaisySoapCo produces handmade soaps, candles, and more. Check out more about GentleDaisySoapCo here!