First Lady Shanan C. Burress was born and raised in Pontiac, Michigan. She moved to West Michigan to begin life as a student at Grand Valley State University where she eventually earned a Bachelor of science degree in Integrative Studies with a focus in Health & Wellness in Society. Her role as a First Lady is like none other. She is a down to earth, positive woman who loves God and who enjoys serving God and God’s people in community. First Lady Burress has served in various ministries within the church to include Greeters/Hospitality, New Moms, Nursing Home, Outreach, Children’s & Youth Ministries.

 

First Lady has been employed with Gordon Food Service since 2018. Currently she is a Non-Commercial Inside Sales Supervisor. Prior to her transition to this role, First Lady Burress worked as a National Account Pricing Analyst managing contract implementation for many large National chain account restaurants. She has a passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion and has also served voluntarily as a DEI subcommittee team member with Gordon Food Service. First Lady Burress has extended her servanthood to the Grand Rapids Public School District where she weekly volunteered to various students as a mentor through Affinity Mentoring for 5 years. First Lady Burress’ service broadened to mentoring women at Alpha Grand Rapids through their Step-Up Mentoring Program in 2023. 

 

First Lady Burress enjoys encouraging women in all different seasons of their lives and shares her own testimony of how God has delivered and restored her from a number of difficult challenges. As she walks alongside her husband, First Lady Burress efficiently helps to manage the church’s administrative needs, social media content as well as website development & design. Because of her love for God and His Kingdom, First Lady Burress is always willing to assist and serve in multiple capacities for the church at all levels.

 

First Lady Shanan C. Burress takes most pleasure in the family structure, therefore spending time with her husband and their two beautiful children, Laila & William Jr. is a significant part of her life.