Jim Meier

VP of Sales
jmeier@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I love my Best Friend and Wife, Denise, who has always been there for me!
• • I like large Holiday, family gatherings at our house, especially 4th of July and Thanksgiving.
• • I dislike those stupid “Cat-In-The-Hat” hats…. you know those tall red and white striped ones.
• • I like to watch my three daughters laugh and giggle while they watch silly movies.
• • I dislike that kid that dropped mustard on my new shoes while getting a hot dog at Disneyworld…..come to think of it; he might have even been wearing a stupid Cat-In-The-Hat hat.
• • I really like to play golf….and, I never take a stroke for a “lost” ball. Experience has shown me that someone will eventually find it, so it is never really “lost” and I shouldn’t be penalized for “misplacing” it.

Greetings! My name is Jim (Jimbo, Jimmy, “Jim” bag, Jiminizer, ….I answer to them all). I am the VP of Sales for Vanerum•Stelter. I’ve been with Vanerum•Stelter since the beginning, March 2003. I’ve had the pleasure of assembling the great team that serves you. This group excels at finding the right solution for you and solving your problems.

Prior to Vanerum•Stelter, I was with Steelcase for 10 years, with positions in Manufacturing and as a Sales Director and Product Knowledge Director. Before that, I held several division management positions in the beverage industry.

I have been married to the same sainted, patient women for over 35 years. I have three lovely daughters (who keep coming and going into our “empty” nest…but are always welcome). People often ask how I got so calm and mellow. I grew up as the only son with five sisters. Then had three daughters and no sons. I learned early on it’s easiest just to shrug your shoulders, and say “WHATEVER”, because I am never going to win any arguments with all of those women in my life. I love going to Home Depot……mostly just to stop in the power tools area, inhale very deeply and get a quick fix of testosterone before I go back home………

I enjoy working at Vanerum•Stelter. I thrive on helping people help themselves. With our four diverse companies, I take pleasure in providing the whole package for our dealers and their customers. Call me anytime!

Rocky Vulpetti

Relationship Manager
rvulpetti@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I live to fish and play golf
  
• • I like spending time with my wife and kids on our boat, but dislike bad weather keeping us off the boat
  
• • I like a good steak and cold beer, but dislike pineapple on pizza

Hello, my name is Rocky! I am a Relationship Manager at Vanerum•Stelter. I've been at Vanerum•Stelter since may of 2005. I come to you with a great deal of leadership experience, having spent 19 years with Steelcase. I am very happily married with 4 amazing children. I spend my free time refereeing high school football games. I enjoy working with people! My favorite movies are the Rocky series - of course!!!

George Tiedgen

Relationship Manager
gtiedgen@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I love my long-suffering wife and best friend Penny; whose beautiful eyes just may roll all the way back into her head and get stuck one of these days
• • I enjoy reading, music, most sports, including golf, which is actually an expensive hobby
• • I like the four seasons- the climate, not the singing group

Hello! I'm George Tiedgen. It may not look like it but my last name rhymes with pigeon and we never use it when ordering pizza. I love working with our dealers, because I have thirty years experience at Steelcase dealerships and I think I know a lot of the challenge you face. I love bringing you Vanerum•Stelter brands, because we can help you find incremental, profitable business in areas like schools, high density storage, and casework, which are not typically areas where contract furniture dealers play successfully. The best part is that we do the work for you, and you'll be the only one to get our pricing, because we only distribute through the Steelcase dealer network.

Danien Tolman

Relationship Manager
dtolman@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like Waterskiing, but I dislike Downhill Skiing
• • I like Fishing, but I dislike Sushi
• • I like Flying, but I dislike Rollercoasters

Hello, my name is Dainen! I am a Relationship Manager at Vanerum•Stelter. I have just graduated from an intern position to become a full-time RM. I am very excited to be here and to work with you. I love the summer months where I can spend time skiing, boarding, tubing, and relaxing in my family’s boat. I also enjoy spending time outside, whether it is working on our landscape, fishing, or just relaxing. I have been teaching Sunday school at my church for the last three years and I am looking forward to many more. I love my family and enjoy life. Brothers don't shake hands. Brothers gotta hug.

Jessica Collins

Relationship Manager
jcollins@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • Likes: Spending time with friends and family, cooking, Michigan’s Fall season and all that entails, warm rainy days, reading, and going to the movies.
• • Dislikes: Alarm clocks, I love the snow, but hate getting blocked in by plowed snow, and negative attitudes – put your game face on!

My name is Jessica Collins. I am your Relationship Manager and Midwest contact here at Vanerum•Stelter. I am a graduate of Grand Valley State University. Go Lakers! I have a Bachelor's degree in General Business and History.

I like to travel, which is a big part of my job that I love. I am from West Michigan and I believe I am one of the few that enjoys Michigan and all of its seasons! I grew up in Grand Haven, hence my love for the beach. I am the oldest of three girls. (Everyone always feels sorry for my Dad, I do not see why.)

Before my time here at Vanerum•Stelter I worked as a Supply Chain Assistant and have a background in Quality Management. As your Relationship Manager I am responsible for making sure that I can support you in any way that I can. I am responsible for the Midwest territory, where I have an understanding of my market, my customers and what drives their furniture decisions.

Amy Nerz

Relationship Manager
anerz@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • Likes: Shopping (except for groceries), spending time with friends, and spicy foods
• • Dislikes: Slow drivers, scary movies and cleaning

Hi, my name is Amy Nerz and I am a relationship manager at Vanerum Stelter. I recently graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in interior design and I love art, designing and making spaces look good!

When I am not at work you can find me playing tennis, golf or at the gym (I am training for a half marathon)! I also enjoy traveling, MSU football games and hanging out with friends and family. I have lived in the Grand Rapids area for 13 years now and enjoy all of what it has to offer.

Previous to working here at Vanerum Stelter I worked with Michigan State University Interior Design Services working on campus wide projects which provided me with some great experience to begin my career here as a relationship manager. I am excited to be working here at Vanerum Stelter and providing my clients with excellent service and furniture solutions.

Chris Hanes

Relationship Manager
chanes@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• Likes: Coffee in the morning, seafood and steak, traveling to new places, the beach, dogs, camping, and positive attitudes.
• Dislikes: Scrambled eggs, negative people, cloudy days, and scrapping the snow off of my car in the morning.

Hi! My name is Chris Hanes and I am a Relationship Manager at Vanerum•Stelter. In April of 2009, I graduated from Grand Valley State University receiving a BBA in Business Administration with a concentration on Marketing. When I am not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also love to travel and try to get out to a new place whenever possible. Usually, that “place” involves a sunny beach or a golf course. I am very excited to be working at Vanerum-Stelter and within the furniture industry. This company makes my job easy on me as I truly believe in the products and solutions that we offer and I am excited to bring them to you!

Andrew Kotman

Relationship Manager
akotman@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I love my wife Beth and our two dogs, Hobbs and Zoey.
• • I like baseball and am a lifelong Detroit Tigers fan.
• • I like all seafood except shrimp.
• • I dislike winter and snow.
• • I dislike fried foods.
• • I dislike pop music.

Hi, I am Andrew Kotman. I have been at Vanerum Stelter as a Relationship Manager since September 2009. I graduated from Calvin College in Grand Rapids with a degree in Business Administration. During the summer I spend a lot of time following baseball (I think I’m addicted to fantasy baseball) and playing softball. Year around I spend a lot of time with my wife walking our two dogs, Hobbs (a Husky) and Zoey (a Black Lab/German Shorthair Pointer). Hobbs loves the winter walks but I could do without them. Previous to coming to Vanerum Stelter, I spent five years in customer service and sales. I am excited about the team we have here and the products we have available for our customers and dealers.

Lori Garvin

Relationship Manager
lgarvin@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I love to shop, listen to music and go on vacation.
• • I dislike cold weather, dishonesty and negative attitudes.

Hi, my name is Lori Garvin. I have been with Vanerum•Stelter for over 2 years now. I am in purchasing. I am married and have 6 kids 5 of them girls. Call me crazy! My whole life has been right here in and around Grand Rapids even though I hate the cold weather. Family is very important to my husband and me thus the reason we stayed. When we're not running from one kid event to another we like spending time with friends and family. My favorite place to be is the beach with my toes in the sand.

Dee Gibbany

Independent Representative
deegibbany@frontiernet.net
p. (510) 284-6699 | f. (510) 601-5692

Hi, my name is Dee. I have lived in Northern California most of my life and have been in the industry for over 20 years. I worked for a Furniture Dealer for 5 years, and have been a manufacture representative ever since. I've developed a lot of relationship/friendships with many of my dealers, and have covered the same area (Sacramento to Redding and Reno, NV) for over 20 years with the same dealers & designers.

Jim Richardson

Independent Representative
jimrsd@cox.net
p. (858) 531-9329

Jim Richardson has vast experience within the Commercial Furnishings industry. In his previous positions, he has been responsible for the development of various vertical markets coupled with leading and directing his sales staff to increase market share as well as meeting or exceeding annual sales volume.

Jim started his own Independent Rep organization 3 years ago. He has found that building sales with multiple lines can be challenging, but also very rewarding. As he takes Vanerum Stelter to market, he looks forward to working closely with Dealers-and the A&D Community in the introduction Vanerum Stelter as his go to market strategy for the Education Vertical market.

Bob Kirby

Independent Representative
kirbyrep@aol.com
p. (510) 464-4475 | f. (510) 601-5692

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I enjoy sports, playing golf, a good joke
• • fine food and wine
• • Family and friends
• • loyalty
• • meeting new people,traveling
  
• • I dislike people that don't take responsibility for their actions
• • Bad drivers
• • Politicians

I have lived, worked, gone to school, meet my wife all in the San Francisco Bay area. Can't think of a better place to live. I have worked as an Independent Representative in the Contract Furniture industry for over 20 years. Kirby Reps is very excited to join the Vanerum Stelter team.

Mark Bayley

Independent Representative
mdbayley@ca.rr.com
p. (818) 217-4798 | f. (818) 217-4798

Hello, My name is Mark Bayley. After 25 years of industry sales experience, I opened the doors to Bayley Associates on January 2008. During my career in both the Contract and Education furniture industry, I have held District and Regional Sales positions with both Sagus/Artco Bell and Bretford Manufacturing. In addition I have also worked as an Independent Rep with 2 different Southern California Rep Agencies and look forward to working with the Vanerum•Stelter team.

John Rehnberg

Independent Representative
jmrehnberg@yahoo.com
p. (510) 574-0797

Hi, I'm John Rehnberg. I've been a manufacturers rep since 1977 and established Rehnberg & Associates in 1989. My current territory is the Southern half of Northern California with primary terrritory in Silicon Valley. I'm married to my beautiful wife Celia with 2 adult daughters Heather and Katie.

Amy Rudkin

Independent Representative
amy@fullassoc.com
p. (206) 251-1700

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like cooking and the cooking channel
• • I like taveling to anywhere near or far (particularly tropical destinations)
• • I like hot weather, 90+ is perfect
• • I like boating in the lake or the Puget Sound
• • I like my english bulldog, Roscoe
• • I like autumn and cozy sweaters
• • I dislike budgets and diets

I am with Fuller & Associates, the Vanerum Stelter representative group in the Pacific Northwest. We cover Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Alaska and Hawaii. I’ve been with Fuller for 6 years promoting and selling all types of commercial grade furniture. I’m born and raised in Seattle (Go Huskies) and work with my father who started Fuller & Associates 20 years ago. I've worked with Vanerum•Stelter for 2+ years and look forward to 2010!

Russ Fuller

Independent Representative
russ@fullassoc.com
p. (206) 251-1800

I work with Fuller & Associates, the Vanerum Stelter representative group in the Pacific Northwest. We cover Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Alaska and Hawaii. I founded Fuller & Associates over 20 years ago promoting and selling all types of commercial grade furniture. I look forward to continuing the relationship with Vanerum•Stelter through the coming years.

Laura Hopson

Marketing VP
lhopson@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I love my son, he is 4 going on 13, and the brightest point of my life!
• • I like Food and Wine (specifically bread and merlot from Carrabbas)
• • I like a nice, long, hot shower.
• • I like cooking balanced, square meals, meat and potatoes
• • I dislike a messy house- and yes.. mine is messy.
• • I dislike smelly dogs, and raw onions

Hello! My name is Laura! I am the Vice President of Marketing at Vanerum•Stelter. I have been with the company since August of 2005. My responsibility here at Vanerum•Stelter is focused on the 4 P's. If you know marketing, I need not say more. For those of you that don't, that means products, pricing, promotion and place. For me, all day, every day, is filled with activities that ensure that you have the right products to sell, at the right price, and that you are aware of everything that we have available to help you pull in more business. My personality, well, some might say that my life is one HUMONGOUS dichotomy. I hate a messy house, yet mine is a mess, I am serious all of the time, yet you will find me laughing frequently (from stress). I am a geeky engineer by trade, but traded the life for the creative side marketing. I was a disciplined gymnast growing up, but felt that cheerleading was the best way to express myself. I grew up in East Lansing (MSU), but went to school in Ann Arbor (University of Michigan) GO BLUE! I am also a Gemini...hmmm...maybe that explains it.

Jackie Boomstra

Client Services Advocate
jboomstra@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like summer, water sports, technology, chocolate, coffee, camping, boating, swimming, dogs, shopping, and computers (trouble shooting and surfing the internet)
• • I dislike crab meat and winter

Hello, my name is Jackie! I have been your client service advocate at Vanerum•Stelter for almost 2 years. I'm the person whose friendly voice greets you on the phone when you call Vanerum•Stelter. I am always happy to assist you in any way I can. My job here at Vanerum•Stelter involves contacting dealers in areas of shipping, sales, marketing and follow up. I also provide support to staff in all departments from managing office supplies, writing letters and e-mails to preparing and printing shipping labels. Outside of work I enjoy my volunteer work as a Disability Consultant for my church and as a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore. Spending time with family is always fun as well as reading and movies.

Nikki Probst

Marketing & Sales Tactics
nprobst@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I love wine and all kinds of interesting foods (I’ll eat anything)…but I dislike cooking.
• • I like hockey, football, and basketball…but dislike watching golf.
• • I like drinking hot water but dislike drinking it cold…yeah I’m weird.

Hello my name is Nikki! I started at Vanerum•Stelter in March of 2007 as a Marketing intern while attending Grand Valley State University. After obtaining my B.B.A in Marketing from GVSU, I moved into a Sales Associate role, supporting the Mid-West Relationship Managers. In the past three years here, I’ve been in Sales, Brand Management, Marketing Communications and New Business Development. I currently manage a call center focused on uncovering sales opportunities across the country in the education market and work with our team to blitz the A&D community to tell our i3 story and support our dealers!

Outside of work, I love boating, shooting photography (especially when traveling), watching my Detroit Red Wings, music (mostly rock), and ANYTHING having to do with Italy after having studied abroad there!

Julie DeCook

Graphic Design
jdecook@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like wheat beer, pino noir and Irish whiskey.
• • I like waking up on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
• • I like funny things, like people falling..
• • I dislike coconut.
• • I dislike running out of printer supplies.
• • I most strongly dislike mosquitoes.

My name is Julie DeCook. I am the Senior Graphic Designer at Vanerum•Stelter. My goal here is to create strong brand recognition through imagery and messaging. My responsibilities include designing and producing collateral and communication materials that target dealers, designers and customers.

I enjoy hands-on activities like patty-cake and tickle monster. By the way, my husband and I have a wonderful baby girl who was born in December 2008. You can find me tramping around Michigan's western lakeshore with my sunshine girl in a kangaroo pouch and walking my slightly rude min pin.

Matt Walter

Graphic Design
mwalter@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • Likes: Downhill skiing, Marco's Bistro, Law & Order, My wife and family
• • Dislikes: Surprises, Waking up early on the weekends, Student Loans, & The Tower of Terror

Hi, I'm Matt Walter. I'm a graphic designer at Vanerum•Stelter who started October 2008. Before joining the team I freelanced for numerous clients designing web content as well as material for print for over 5 years. I enjoy challenges and the creative processes that follow, both in design and through everyday obstacles. I look forward to working at Vanerum•Stelter and being a part of the team that grows the company.

Kristen Wood

Marketing Intern
kwood@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I Like: Trying new things, avocado and singing in the car
• • I Dislike: Condiments, reality TV and runny noses.

My name is Kristen Wood. I am one of the two awesome marketing interns here at Vanerum Stelter! In May of 2010, I will be graduating from Grand Valley State University with a BS in Advertising and Public Relations and a Business minor. My two current passions are: Action Sports (anything on a board) and furniture design (anything mid-century modern). Upon my graduation I will either, A) stay in West Michigan and continue to work within the contract furniture industry or B) move out west and become a snowboard instructor! When I’m not busy with work and school I like to relax by watching Netflix and napping. On the weekends I enjoy going home to play with my dog (and visit the family), camping, kayaking, snowboarding and learning to rock climb!

Amanda Jarboe

Marketing Intern
ajarboe@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I Like: Traveling, relaxing with a good novel and cooking.
• • I Dislike: Barking dogs, cold weather and being late.

Hi, I’m Mandy Jarboe and I’m the Marketing intern at VanerumStelter. I am a junior at Grand Valley State University double majoring in Marketing and Management. As a marketing intern, I work hand in hand with Nikki Probst on competitive bids and product research. Outside of work, I enjoy socializing with my friends, spending time with family, and exploring new recipes. I also love watching classic Italian films, since I studied abroad there and have been left with a taste for expensive wine and delicious pizza! My favorite saying is La Dolce Vita-which means “Life is good”. I try to remember that every day!

Ben Jochems

Marketing and PR, Vanerum Group
ben.jochemsd@vanerumgroup.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like affordable design objects
• • I like when a plan comes together
• • I like Snowboarding and Kitesurfing
• • I dislike Waiting for Godo
• • I dislike overly simple generalizations ;)

Hi, my name is Ben. I am the Belgium based PR & Marketing manager of the VANERUM Group and have been working here since early 2006. One thing among many I like about this company is the dynamic flexibility and enthusiasm of our colleagues. Another is that VANERUM manages to develop, integrate and bring to the market products and solutions that are so good they almost speak for themselves. That, in turn, allows us to focus our efforts on our customers’ needs. At VANERUM, we never know what the next day will bring, but there’s no doubt it will be exciting!

Maarten Elens

Marketing, Vanerum Group
maarten.elensd@vanerumgroup.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like a challenge
• • I like food. Moroccan, turkish, indian, chinese, british, finnish, german, american, grecian... Just about anything you can throw at me… As long as it doesn't have any creepy insects
• • I like Space, above and beyond
• • I dislike people who don't keep their stuff organized
• • I dislike viruses, especially those that find there way into my computer
• • I dislike overly active and extravert religious views

Hi guys! I’m Maarten Elens and I live in Belgium. For the ones who don’t know, that would be in Western- Europe, that small chocolate- loving country. I am a very demanding person with my work as well as with myself. What I like is to collaborate with people who are down to earth and strongly believe in the benefits of working in a friendly environment. Most of my interest and work have revolved around graphic and webdesign operations (that sounds very military). I am not fond of stereotypes such as introducing myself. I prefer offering people the chance to discover my qualities along the way. Hoping to have a productive collaboration, I am certain this will be the beginning of a beautiful and lasting friendship between Belgium and America.

Loke Smits

Marketing and Communications, Vanerum Group
loke.smitsd@vanerumgroup.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like LOL until I have to lay down
• • I like wordplay
• • I like bubbles, no, I love bubbles
• • I like Italian, as in food and my man
• • I like fast cars (I’m sort of a guy when it comes to that)
• • I dislike hidden cucumber in a salad
• • I dislike smelly people (any kind of smelly)
• • I dislike waiting lines in the supermarket, because I always pick the wrong one

Hi, my name is Loke! Since november 2008 I’m in charge of graphic and web design, mailings, events and chocolate for the VANERUM Group. I’m very fond of working in a strong team, improving our competences and observing the satisfaction of our customers. Thinking outside the box and being creative in a crazy way is what I do best. That’s how I try to make a difference for VANERUM, it’s fantastic to see how we can work together with our American colleagues... like one big family!

Michelle Louters

Supply Chain Manager
mlouters@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like Dave Matthews and dislike anyone who doesn’t like him
• • I like Pickles and really like that my husband doesn’t like them (more for me!!!)
• • I like to take naps and dislike getting up in the morning
• • I like making mixed cd’s for roadtrips, but I don’t like driving on roadtrips
• • I like fiery-hot cheetos and dislike how they make my fingers orange
• • I like a nice glass of wine and I dislike an empty glass of wine

Hi, my name is Michelle and I’ve been working at Vanerum•Stelter since July of 2005. I can assure you that there has never been a dull moment! I am back to my original position as Supply Chain Manager in the Operations department. I was for some time, in the wonderful world of marketing, as LearningWorks Brand Manager. I married a wonderful man in the fall of 2005 and we are currently living happily ever after. No kids yet, but we’re in the market for a bulldog to get us “practiced” for the whole parenthood thing.

In my free time I enjoy finding new music, laying out in Mexico, shopping in Chicago, going to wine tastings and hanging out with friends and family!

Lyn Chadwick

Customer Service Manager
customerservice@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like: Family - We're very close. There is my mom, brother and sister-in-law, sister, nephew, nieces and spouses and kids. We have fun. The Canine Kids - Chloe, a Toy Poodle and Teddy, a Cairn Terrier. Exercise - Walking, Pilates, Free Weights - I can't do without regular exercise.
  
• • I dislike: Cold rainy days, A day without laughter, People without a zest for life.

Hello, My name is Lyn Chadwick! I am a Relationship Manager at Vanerum•Stelter. I've been with Vanerum•Stelter since we opened our doors for business in April 2003!

Prior to joining Vanerum•Stelter I worked for Steelcase for 18 years. It's been great working with the Steelcase dealers. Ours is a relationship business and that is what I have always valued. I'm very lucky. I have a terrific family. We're all extremely close and have a great time together.

Michael Johnson

Operations Manager
mjohnson@vanerumstelter.com

My name is Michael Johnson. I am the Operations Manager at Vanerum•Stelter, and have been with the operations team for 1 year. I oversee the warehouse, product assembly and all out-going shipments. I am responsible for quality control and plant safety. Previous to my time at Vanerum•Stelter, I was in Operations with Haworth for 16 years. I graduated from Davenport University with a degree in Business Management.

Holly Miller

Purchasing
purchasing@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like the beach and hot, sunny summer days
• • I like photography and I like to run.
• • I dislike rain and humidity.
• • I like to wear flip-flops whenever possible.
• • I dislike Bud Light…its Miller Time!

Hello, my name is Holly! I worked with Vanerum•Stelter since August 2007. I graduated from Grand Valley State University and have been living in Grand Rapids for the past three years. I grew up in a small town in Mid-Michigan and earned an Associate’s Degree in Photography before obtaining my Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Marketing. I enjoy being outdoors as much as possible and love spending time with my family and friends. I like to travel and see new places, and I have a passion for photography and capturing and preserving moments in time. I am excited to be a part of the Vanerum•Stelter team and hope to be a strong asset to the company and its dealers.

Alex Deschaine

Operations
adeschaine@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like football, hockey, a perfectly grilled steak and a cold beer, winter, and horror movies..
• • I dislike tomatoes, mushrooms, Coldplay, and traffic.

Hello! My name is Alex Deschaine, and I’m a Supply Chain/Operations intern here at Vanerum Stelter. I am currently a senior at Hope College pursuing a double major in Economics/Management and a minor in Political Science. I also am the starting left offensive tackle for the Hope College Flying Dutchman football team. I assist Michelle, Michael, and Lyn with their daily tasks, as well as project manage a number of the orders that come through our facility. I also am in charge of making sure that all of your orders are on schedule. In my spare time I like to watch movies, get a good workout in at the gym, go to the beach, and spend time with my girlfriend and friends.

Lonnie Robinson

Shipping and Receiving
lrobinson@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like to play basketball, football, baseball, and watch sports; but I dislike watching my team lose.
• • I like to spend time with my wife and kids, and love spending time with my grandson, but I dislike hearing my family argue.
• • I like working hard and taking care of my responsibilities, but I dislike giving all my money away.

Hi, my name is Lonnie! I am a warehouse employee at Vanerum•Stelter, which means I am responsible for shipments going out. I have worked here for 3 years. Things that are important to me are getting trucks out on time, and getting supplies on time.

Tom Krider

Installer
tkrider@vanerumstelter.com

My name is Tom Krider. I am an avid hunter and outdoors man. I am also a family man. Known for my drive and determination, I get the job done. I relish the biggest challenges and demand those jobs. I have seen the country through the windshield of our 250, 450 and 650 trucks, as I cross America managing installations. Clients request me after I have worked on their projects. My average is 4.8 out of 5.0 on the Vanerum•Stelter customer feedback rating system. I am a leader who is proud to bring my projects in on time.

Dennis Oliver

CNC Operator/ Shipping and Receiving

Hi, my name is Dennis and I work in Operations at Vanerum•Stelter. I am committed to quality products and on-time shipments.

Keith VanDorp

Assembly Team Leader

Hi, my name is Keith and I work in Operations at Vanerum•Stelter. As the team leader, I create and enforce processes that keep our warehouse organized, efficient and productive. I do everything I can to ensure the highest quality in every order that we ship.

Sergiy Markanos

Maintenance

Hi, my name is Sergiy, I am originally from Ukrane and have lived in the US for 2 years. I currently handle the maintenance duties for Vanerum•Stelter.

Brett Willink

Engineering
bwillink@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like: My family.
• • I dislike: Spoons

Hi, my name is Brett! I am an Engineer at Vanerum•Stelter. The Willink tables are named after me. I recently became a father, and I'm enjoying every minute of it.

Jon Brock

Engineering
jbrock@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I love boating, slalom skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing
• • I like summertime sports like softball and golf
• • I like all sorts of music, just depends on my mood
• • I dislike winter but like snowboarding and skiing
• • I dislike heavy traffic but like driving
• • I dislike my college loans but loved going to college

Hi. My name is Jon Brock. I’m an engineer here at Vanerum•Stelter since August 2009 after starting as an intern in June 2009. I recently graduated from Calvin College (Go Knights!) where I received my Bachelors of Science in Engineering with a concentration in Mechanical Engineering. During the summer I can be found playing softball on any number of teams, strolling through a golf course, or on my parent’s boat. During the winter I just try to stay warm.

Kurtis Carlson

Relationship Manager
kcarlson@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • Likes: I like road trips, the Detroit Tigers, bonfires
• • Dislikes: I dislike rocks in my shoe, black ice, grammatical errors

Hi my name is Kurtis and I have been with the engineering team since 2010. I graduated from Kettering University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. I am originally from the West MI area where I was employed by a furniture manufacturer. After a two year stint in the great state of WI, I’m back in my old stomping grounds and loving it!

Dante Zeppa

Engineering
dzeppa@vanerumstelter.com

My name is Dante Zeppa. I am a Product Engineer at Vanerum•Stelter. I have been with the company as part of the STUdio design team for 1-1/2 years. I handle all special and custom requests, and also work on product development, pricing and part number management, and the creation of engineering drawings. I graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in Industrial Design.

Jamie Rolfe

Furniture Designer
jrolfe@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like mangos, fresh air & sunshine, my Doane paper & rotring mechanical pen
• • I dislikes reality tv, messes (if you use it, put it away when you are done), cottage cheese & tapioca pudding (together or separate)

I have been with Vanerum•Stelter since May 2004. Its definitely challenging but I love almost every minute of it. Prior to my career here I was a welder, dairy farmer, builder, and professional student. During the summer months, if I’m not at work I can usually be found at the beach playing volleyball or on a winding road testing the handling of my motorcycle. If there is snow on the ground I’m probably out on my snowboard or doing doughnuts in a parking lot in my old Volvo wagon. That’s me in a nutshell.

Lauren Murphy

Space Planning and Design
lmurphy@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I love sunny days on the water, baking, sweet tea and refurbishing old things.
• • I dislike being accident prone and the emergency room, pumpkin flavored anything and yoga.

Hi, my name is Lauren! Originally a native of Sunny South Carolina, I have acclimated to the brutally cold weather of Michigan enough to survive each year but look forward to the warm Christmas vacations spent back in SC. I graduated from Kendall College of Art and Design and joined the Vanerum•Stelter team shortly thereafter. I have spent the last 3 years working with the other Stu team members to create solutions for all of our customers’ custom furniture needs.

Stephanie Obrochta

Finance
sobrochta@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I love my husband and wonderful dogs!
• • I like the fall
• • I like bubble baths
• • I dislike reptiles with no legs
• • I dislike headaches
• • I dislike ringing cell phones

Hi, my name is Stephanie. I am the Accounting Manager at Vanerum-Stelter. I graduated from Illinois State University with a double major, Accounting and Marketing. I bring with me 5 years of accounting experience and lots of ambition! I am originally from the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago. Go Bears! I recently moved to Michigan in May of 2009 for my husband’s job. We are the proud owners of 2 wonderful dogs, a bulldog (Otis) and a pug (Shorty)! These are my “children” for now and they bring a smile to my face everyday.

Jan Hintze

Finance
jhintze@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I like Soccer & tennis
• • I like Watching TV
• • I like Spending time with my family and friends
• • I dislike disorganization
• • I dislike long drives
• • I really don't like writing about myself. So there you have it!

My name is Jan Hintze. I have been in the accounting department at Vanerum Stelter since September 2009. As you may have guessed by my name, I am not from here. I am originally from Germany. I have also lived in England for a combined 5 years. I moved to Holland, MI in 2003 when I had just turned 18 to live with my now-wife of just over 1 year, Tonya. I have an 11-year-old step-daughter, Shai-Lynn. Right we have 5 cats living with us. I just recently graduated with my combined MBA/BBA degree in accounting from Davenport University. I am excited to be part of the team at Vanerum Stelter.

Jean Hanley

Finance Intern
jhanley@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• • I love my boyfriend and amazing friends and family.
• • I like to travel to new and different places.
• • I like drinking wine and cooking, preferably doing both at the same time.
• • I dislike mushrooms, olives, sushi, and fish (except tuna).
• • I dislike spiders.
• • I dislike dirty dishes.

Hi, my name is Jean! I joined the Vanerum Stelter team as a Finance intern in February 2010. I work alongside Stephanie and Jan and try to assist them with anything they need. I am currently a senior at Grand Valley State University studying Finance, International Business, and French. I love to travel when I have the time to do so, especially to visit my wonderful British boyfriend. My favorite time of the year is autumn just as the leaves begin to change color. I’m not a huge fan of snow but it makes it possible for snow sports (snowboarding and snow ball fights of course!). In my spare time I love to hang out with my friends, try new foods, read, and enjoy life. I’m very excited to be a part of this wonderful group of people and can’t wait to get to know the company better. I believe I’ll be a great addition to the team.

Jim Stelter

CEO
jstelter@vanerumstelter.com

LIKES AND DISLIKES:

• I like: Family vacations being together
• I like: Fires by the Lake
• I like: Monday morning team meetings.
• I dislike: People who do not take responsibility for their actions
• I dislike: Missing commitments
• I dislike: Dwelling on the negatives.

Jim has three children, all "out of the house" and enjoying life. His 30 plus years of marriage to his wife Terry, is something he is very proud of (He married above his head)! He is a graduate of Michigan State University where he played Varsity soccer and was named captain 3 years. Jim spent 25 plus years at Steelcase which gave him his wide experience in the wonderful industry called "Contract Furniture".

Gert Van Erum

CEO - Vanerum Group
gve@vanerum.be

My name is Gert VanErum. I am a the CEO of Vanerum Group, one of Europe’s leading suppliers of total learning environments. With its 40 years of experience, Vanerum is changing the way people teach, learn and work throughout the world. The integration of technology in the way we learn fuels my appetite for exciting and effective solutions. Belgium and Europe have lead the world in thought and in the creation of tools for the education market. I enjoy skiing in the Alps, Golfing in Scotland and biking on the “channel.”

Bailey

Public Relations and Security

My name is Bailey and I'm a Shih Tzu miniature schnauzer mix boy who weighs 12 pounds. I joined the VanerumStelter team one year ago after my owner, Jackie Boomstra, adopted me from a local dog rescue shelter. I enjoy just hanging out at the front desk greeting guests as they come in the door. My personality is very laid back and I'm very quiet, except I do bark and make myself known when an occasional big dog walks by. I enjoy observing all the various business activities that take place here.

I love doggy treats and lots of attention and especially enjoy being held and petted by all our visitors and the VanerumStelter team. I absolutely love hearing the phone ring, its music to my ears. So please call us with orders, questions or anything you need. I'll be right there under the front desk quietly paying attention to all the business.