Vernis Schad: A Legacy of Empowerment, Advocacy, and Community Service in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Vernis Schad, born Vernis VandenBosch on November 8, 1925, in Ireton, Iowa, was a trailblazer in the West Michigan community. Her life’s work, spanning over seven decades, was characterized by a steadfast commitment to education, equality, and the empowerment of women. As one of the founding members of the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she played a pivotal role in shaping an organization that has since become a cornerstone for women’s advocacy and support in the region.
Early Life and Education
Vernis VandenBosch’s journey to Grand Rapids began in 1943 when she moved to the city to attend Calvin College. While there, she worked for a family, earning room and board—a common practice among the Dutch community at the time. After a brief return to California, she came back to Calvin College in 1945, this time living in an apartment with four other women. It was during this period that she met George Schad, the son of the owner of Nucraft Furniture Company, where she worked part-time. They married in 1947 and had two sons, Timothy and Scott.
Community Engagement and Advocacy
Upon settling in Grand Rapids, Vernis immersed herself in community service. She began volunteering at her son’s school, North Park, assisting with hot lunches, the PTA, and the library. Her dedication to education led her to serve on the Grand Rapids Board of Education from 1970 to 1982, including a term as board president from 1974 to 1978. During her tenure, she advocated for alternative learning programs and was instrumental in the annexation of North Park into the Grand Rapids Public Schools system.
Beyond education, Vernis was actively involved in various civic organizations. She served on the Grand Rapids Recreation Board and was part of a 51-member committee that studied the lack of integration in public schools, alongside Helen Claytor, a fellow community leader. Her commitment to social justice and equality was evident in all her endeavors.(ggrwhc.org)
Founding the Women’s Resource Center
In 1972, Vernis was invited to join a steering committee aimed at establishing an agency to assist women transitioning from full-time homemaking to the workforce. This initiative culminated in the founding of the Women’s Resource Center in 1973, one of the first of its kind in the country. The center provided career development programs and support for displaced homemakers, laying the groundwork for future services that would address the evolving needs of women in the community.(ggrwhc.org)
Vernis’s leadership extended beyond the WRC. She was a founding member and later president of the Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and contributions of women in the region. Under her guidance, the council initiated the Legacy series, a month-long celebration during Women’s History Month that highlighted the achievements of local women and fostered a sense of community and awareness.(ggrwhc.org)
Global Outreach and Humanitarian Efforts
Vernis’s commitment to service extended beyond the borders of the United States. In the mid-1990s, she and her husband, George, were recruited by the International Executive Service Corps to assist in developing countries. Their first assignment took them to the Philippines, where George trained employees at a privately owned furniture manufacturer, while Vernis engaged with local women through Bible study and community service activities. She also facilitated the shipment of textbooks to an elementary school in need, showcasing her dedication to education and empowerment on a global scale.
Their subsequent assignments took them to Costa Rica, Guatemala, Zimbabwe, and Tunisia, where Vernis continued her humanitarian work, building connections and supporting communities in various ways. Her experiences abroad enriched her perspective and deepened her commitment to service, both locally and internationally.
Recognition and Awards
Throughout her life, Vernis received numerous accolades for her contributions to the community. In 1999, she was honored with the first Equality Award from the Women’s Resource Center, recognizing her efforts in helping women “find their voices.” She also received the YWCA Tribute Award for Community Involvement, further cementing her legacy as a champion for women’s rights and social justice.
Later Years and Continued Involvement
Even in her later years, Vernis remained active in various organizations. She was involved with the American Association of University Women (AAUW), the Progressive Women’s Alliance, the Porter Hills Advisory Committee, and a poetry group at Fountain Street Church. Her passion for civic engagement and community service never waned, and she continued to work on political campaigns and maintain close relationships with organizations like the Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council and the Women’s Resource Center.
Conclusion
Vernis Schad’s life was a testament to the power of service, advocacy, and community engagement. Her work touched countless lives, and her legacy continues to inspire future generations. Through her efforts, she not only transformed the lives of women in Grand Rapids but also set a precedent for civic involvement and social responsibility. Her story serves as a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on a community and the enduring power of dedication to a cause.
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