Dick Devos, a well-known businessman who grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has always been extremely passionate about revolutionizing his hometown. During his time in Grand Rapids, he has participated in the education reform movement, launched a charter school, and founded a charitable foundation. Continue reading to learn more about Dick Devos.
Dick Devos Supports The Education Choice Movement
As the son of a successful businessman, Dick Devos has always known that hard work is the most important key to success. With this important insight in mind, Dick Devos worked hard to expand charter schools throughout Michigan because he strongly believed that every family should be able to choose where their children attends school. He also pushed successfully for the creation of tax-funded vouchers so that parents wouldn’t be burdened with tuition costs.
Dick Devos Shares His Passion For Aviation
Dick Devos is a big lover of airplanes. As an experienced pilot and passion for aviation, he cofounded a charter school that specializes in teaching students how to fly. Known as West Michigan Aviation Academy, this Grand Rapids-based charter school prepares students for careers in aviation by offering the following classes: Plane maintenance, mathematics, and computer science. Students do not pay a dime to attend West Michigan Aviation Academy. The charter school currently has 600 students enrolled.
The Dick & Betsy Devos Family Foundation
Since he is the founder of a renowned charitable foundation, Dick Devos is often praised for being a philanthropic person. Several years ago, he handed over $12 million, providing much of the funding for a children’s hospital in Grand Rapids. Many families are extremely appreciative of this hospital primarily because they can receive care for their children at home.
How To Be Like Dick Devos
If you would like to replicate the success of Dick Devos, consider focusing on improving your hometown, whether you’re from New York City, Bristol, or another small or large city.
Dick Devos has always made his hometown a priority even back in the early 1990s when he pushed against the development of a large building. In order to protect downtown Grand Rapids, he made some phone calls and formed a group with many prominent leaders.
Make sure that you always find time for your passions too. Dick Devos has successfully incorporated his passion for aviation into everyday life. Of course, Dick Devos runs an aviation charter school, and he is also involved with the Federal Aviation Administration.