Angela Nelson, CTA

Vice President, Multicultural Business Development
aka Community Connector

Angela leads community relations, diversity and inclusion, and workforce development initiatives for Experience Grand Rapids – all while supporting the organization’s mission to market Grand Rapids as a premier destination.

Since joining Experience Grand Rapids in 2017, she has worked to connect people and organizations in ways that advance opportunity for us and them. For example, she helped launch two initiatives that support the pipeline creation and diversification of students exploring careers in hospitality and tourism management (HTM): the Academy of Hospitality and Tourism (in partnership with Grand Rapids Public Schools) and Discover Tourism GR. She is also the driving force behind A Grand Welcome, an annual reception that brings area newcomers together with community leaders and resources.

Bio Bits:

Recommends Chez Olga for authentic Haitian cuisine and “amazing” customer service
Favorite local view is the city skyline at night, seen from eastbound I-96 past the Lake Michigan Drive exit
Earned an M.B.A. in Integrative Management from Michigan State University
Has visited four continents and 17 countries, and lists Zambia as her favorite non-GR travel destination

Angela loves the uniqueness of the city’s local neighborhoods and business districts, and encourages residents and visitors alike to take the time to walk or bike through them. “Only then will you be able to truly explore and enjoy what they have to offer.”