MSU College of Human Medicine's expansion into Grand Rapids is becoming more evident as university officials hired a former state representative as spokesman.
Jerry Kooiman, a Republican who represented Grand Rapids from 2004-06, began working on an interim basis as The Secchia Center's director for community affairs in February.
His position was cemented in the college earlier this month.
Denise Holmes, associate dean for the college, said Kooiman's extensive connections in Grand Rapids made him the prime candidate for the job, which will involve briefing community leaders about the status of the project and representing MSU in West Michigan.
"We thought he'd be an effective spokesperson for the medical school," Holmes said. "We want someone who can help the community understand what the medical school means — someone who is visible.
"(We want) someone who is there meeting with various groups and answering questions and letting people know where we're at."
The State News interviewed Kooiman earlier this week to learn more about his new job. Here's what he had to say:
The State News: What will some of your responsibilities be in your new position as director of community affairs for MSU's expansion into Grand Rapids?
Jerry Kooiman: I will be working with community leaders, city-elected officials and with stakeholder groups such as the partners that Michigan State already has signed agreements with … and also working with the state and federal legislators — providing them with information as to what's going on with Grand Rapids. It's community relations; I'm helping to promote what's happening here to the community.
SN: You were a term-limited state representative. How did you begin your political career?
JK: I graduated from Calvin College. I was a political science major with a business minor. I had an internship with state Sen. Paul Henry that turned into a campaign position when he ran for Congress, which turned into a position with his congressional staff in January 1985. I worked for him for eight years.
SN: Tell us a little background information about yourself.
JK: I'm originally from Wisconsin. I'm married to my wife Maribeth, and we have three children — Sarah, 19, Matt, 17, and Katie, 15.
