Steelcase president named Business Person of the Year

The Economic Club of Grand Rapids has named James Hackett, president and CEO of Steelcase Inc., as Business Person of the Year. The award was instituted to honor influential business leaders from leading or large employers in Grand Rapids, Mich., who have made significant contributions for the betterment of the community.

"Under Hackett's leadership, Steelcase has reached many milestones, including its 100-year anniversary earlier this year. James has been a longtime supporter of our organization and a pillar in our community for decades," said Lorna D. Schultz, executive director for the Economic Club of Grand Rapids. "His business acumen, exuberant leadership style, and philanthropic efforts with organizations like West Michigan Center for Arts & Technology and Grand Rapids University Prep Academy made him an obvious choice for Business Person of the Year."