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Recent graduate gets business honor

April 12, 2006

KALAMAZOO--Lindsay Tjepkema, a 2005 graduate of Western Michigan University, has been named one of West Michigan's Business Leaders Under 40 by West Michigan Business Review. The 23 year-old associate vice president of Southwest Michigan First in Kalamazoo was the youngest of 38 professionals recognized at a March ceremony in Grand Rapids, Mich.

At Southwest Michigan First, Tjepkema oversees events, acts as brand manager, handles marketing materials and contributes to the organization's business recruitment efforts. Southwest Michigan First is a privately held economic development organization that strives to create jobs and wealth in the Kalamazoo region through business expansion, attraction and creation.

Tjepkema earned a bachelor's degree in public relations and marketing at WMU, where she was a member of the Lee Honors College. She holds a Certification in Nonprofit Leadership from American Humanics and is continuing her education in economic development through the International Economic Development Council.

Media contact: Thom Myers, (269) 387-8400, thom.myers@wmich.edu

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