About Us

History

The Grand Rapids African American Health Institute was established in 2002 in response to a growing body of evidence suggesting vast differences in health and health care outcomes for African Americans. Staggering data from the Kent County Health Department, state and national government substantiated the need for an intentional effort to ensure that adequate attention was given to addressing racial/ethnic inequities in health. GRAAHI works to eliminate such inequities at both the health systems level and the community level, an approach taken to maximize effectiveness.

GRAAHI’s first board of directors which includes current members Paul Doyle and Dr. Khan Nedd.

Vanessa Greene
Chief Executive Officer

With a strong educational background, including a Master’s degree from Grand Valley State University, multiple certifications, and a profound commitment to social justice and health equity, Vanessa Greene has dedicated more than 30 years fighting against systemic racial and health injustices.

As a visionary leader and executor, Vanessa has a unique ability to build high-performing teams and devising a roadmap for transformational outcomes. She excels in leveraging relationships and data to pinpoint priorities and drive growth and sustainability.

Due to her notable impact, she has been the recipient of several prestigious awards and recognitions, including the 50th Most Influential Women in West Michigan Award- Grand Rapids Business Journal; Women of Distinction Achievement Recognition-Blue Cross Blue Shield, Giant Activism Award-GRCC, and Diversity Leadership Award- CORPS Magazine, to name a few.

Board of Directors

Paul Doyle

Board Co-Chair
CEO of Inclusive Performance Strategies

Dr. Darla Bishop

Board Co-Chair
Manager, Mktg & Comm. Health Programs
AmeriHealth Caritas

Rochelle Fuller

Treasurer
Senior Financial Analyst at Nestle

Dr. Khan Nedd, MD

Medical Director
CEO of Infusion Associates

Laura Moody, RN

Faculty
Grand Rapids Community College

Eddie Rucker

Consultant

Dr. Phillip Guajardo

Outpatient Psychiatrist
Holland Hospital

Dr. Fatma Mili

Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs
Grand Valley State University

Mia Gutridge

Human Resources Manager
Grand Rapids Housing Commission

Misti Stanton

Vice President, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer
Mercantile Bank

Dr. Tiffany Letts

Pediatrics
University of Michigan Health

Executive Support

Karla Smith
Executive Administrative & HR Assistant

Sharra Poncil
Human Resources & Business Manager

Dr. Vicki-Lynn Holmes
Executive Consultant
Grants & Research

Barbara Lash
Marketing & Communications

Help Support the Fight to End Health Disparities in Kent County.