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Brittany Vanderbeek

MEET BRITTANY

I moved to Traverse City for a new job in February 2020, two weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic reached Michigan. I knew that I was lucky to move to Traverse City, which is the essence of Michigan: crystal clear freshwater everywhere you look, trails for hiking, biking, and skiing, rolling hills of wine country, fresh farm-to-table foods, and Midwestern hospitality. Experiencing the quarantine only emphasized the importance of living near natural beauty.

As a Michigan native, I have traveled to 27 countries and have lived throughout the United States. I have an International MBA from the University of South Carolina and a BBA from the University of Michigan, where I became fluent in Spanish and conversational in French. I have spent my career championing business as a force for good through sustainability consulting at BrownFlynn, Michelin’s Global Leadership Program, building Hagerty’s Impact strategy and Corporate Giving program, teaching Design Thinking for Social Impact at 20Fathoms and Northwestern Michigan College, and leading development and community engagement at 20Fathoms. I can relate to those who are moving and adapting to new places and am passionate about sharing my love of Michigan’s Creative Coast. 

In the community, I serve on the Grand Traverse Bay Watershed Center board, lead marketing & operations initiatives and local tours through Traverse City Wine & Beer Tours, and am a member of TCYPs. I enjoy staying active all four seasons with the Traverse City Track Club, GT Social Sports kickball, paddle boarding, biking, hiking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and more.

ask brittany about
getting involved
hometown
rochester, mi
occupation
Founder & Owner
company
Illuminate Opportunity

ASK BRITTANY ABOUT:

  • Getting involved in the community
  • Working remotely
  • Staying fit outdoors in all four seasons
  • Finding international cultural opportunities
  • Food and drink recommendations

TOP TIP?

Get involved in activities that align with all of your needs (fitness, volunteerism, arts/culture, social, etc.) and you will be amazed how quickly you will feel a sense of community in Traverse City.