We are excited to officially welcome Zack Brown as the 2026 Executive Chair for Taste of Hope West Michigan.

As Chief Manufacturing Officer at Epredia, Zack brings a strong track record of leadership, innovation, and strategic growth. Epredia’s partnership with the American Cancer Society began through the Donald “J” Seelye & Steven Little Tyler Memorial Golf Outing in Kalamazoo and expanded to Taste of Hope in 2023, where they have continued to be a leading supporter of our mission. Zack’s passion for this cause, combined with his leadership experience, positions him perfectly to guide Taste of Hope into its next chapter.

As Executive Chair, Zack will lead our Executive Leadership Team in continuing to elevate the event, expand and diversify revenue, and strengthen corporate partnerships, all in support of the American Cancer Society’s life-saving mission.

Chef Shawn Kohlhaas, a seasoned 30 plus year veteran of the food service industry, has been leading the way in new and fresh approaches in the food service industry. His passions have been in philanthropic works in our West Michigan Community. Currently, Shawn is the acting Principal of Culinary Cultivations, Chairman of the Board for the Grand Rapids ACF and Host of the Local Feed on WYCE.

Shawn has been a steady advocate for the American Cancer Society, winning the West Michigan Volunteer of the Year award in 2023. Shawn’s work on Taste of Hope in West Michigan has led the way to raising well over a million dollars for our mission in the last five years.

Olivia Urbanski is a District Manager at LMCU known for leading with empathy, optimism, and a genuine commitment to elevating those around her. Her career reflects a strong record of innovation, strategic growth, and thoughtful leadership.
With three years of service as Board Treasurer for the Ada Business Association and co-chair of the Ada/Forest Hills Expo, Olivia brings firsthand experience in high level execution and community collaboration. She has also spent the past two years on the Taste of Hope Planning Committee, elevating the guest experience through innovation and collaboration. The mission holds deep personal meaning for her as a cancer survivor.
Supporting the American Cancer Society is profoundly important to Olivia, and she is honored to help shape an event that inspires hope, connection, and meaningful impact for those facing cancer.