GRAND RAPIDS (Oct. 2, 2023) – The American Red Cross Michigan Region has named Tony Gerheiser as the executive director of its West Michigan Chapter in Grand Rapids. The position is part of the region’s leadership team.

“Tony’s passion for the communities in this chapter is very evident,” said Mary Lynn Foster, regional chief executive officer. “He has a proven track record as an engaging leader, and has the insight and enthusiasm to guide the chapter to effectively deliver our services to those in need.”

Gerheiser brings a wealth of experience from across the Red Cross’ vast network of services. As executive director, Gerheiser will serve as the  community liaison for the West Michigan Chapter,  which covers 12 counties across West Michigan. It is one of six Red Cross Chapters in  Michigan.  Gerheiser will provide support to all Red Cross services lines in the chapter including disaster, blood, training and volunteer services while helping members of the military, veterans and their family members.

In 2015, Gerheiser joined the Red Cross as a specialist in the Service to the Armed Forces program, managing volunteers to deliver much-needed workshops and briefings for military members and their families, while also serving veterans at local VA hospitals. He later became an account manager for biomedical services and served in this role until his executive director appointment. He managed more  than a hundred business, collegiate, community and high school accounts spanning counties across West Michigan, including Grand Rapids. He also  coordinated volunteers and spurred new partnerships throughout the area.

“I look forward to serving in this new Red Cross role,” Gerheiser said. “I am honored to be a member of an organization that I know helps people on a daily basis.”

Before joining the Red Cross, Gerheiser was a squad leader for the Michigan Army National Guard and served in Afghanistan, Germany and Poland. He holds a bachelor’s degree in public health from Central Michigan University.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Alicia Dorr / alicia.dorr@redcross.org / 616-306-8040

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information please visit redcross.org/michigan or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @MIRedCross.