Varnum attorney Pete Schmidt has been accepted into Leadership Grand Rapids, the nine-month leadership program designed to enhance and connect leaders from a cross section of the community.
A partner at Varnum, Schmidt focuses his practice on real estate, finance and municipal matters. He works with businesses, institutions, developers and investors in real estate purchases, sales, leasing and financing projects, including shopping centers and other commercial developments.
In addition to his practice, Schmidt has served on the boards of Great Lakes West Michigan Chapter of JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) and the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. Schmidt is recognized as a Rising Star by Michigan Super Lawyers.
LGR is offered through the Grand Rapids Chamber’s Center for Community Leadership and is designed for current and emerging leaders who have the capacity to make a positive impact in the community. The program brings together a diverse group of professionals from financial services, education, manufacturing, health care, the arts, community organizations, government and other sectors. Participants acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to be more effective as leaders in their organizations and the community.
Each LGR class consists of approximately 40 members who meet monthly for a full day session from October to May. Sessions examine a variety of topics including quality of life, public safety, community health and economic prosperity. The sessions include tours and presentations, group projects and discussions with leaders.