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 is a seasoned food service industry veteran of 30-plus years, leading the way with new and fresh approaches. With a passion for farm-to-table initiatives with an emphasis on local, organic and sustainable practices, Kohlhaas has done it all—from apprenticing under Master Chef Karl Wenzel on the eastern seaboard, to working alongside his father who founded Mountain Creek Tavern Restaurant, to holding the prestigious position of Executive Chef for NASCAR where he was responsible for the dining needs of all officials and executives on the circuit.

In 2004, Kohlhaas moved to Grand Rapids and discovered a new frontier in food culture. He quickly became the Regional Culinary Services Manager for the Unidine Corporation, guiding many culinary aspects for over 180 food service accounts, from small retirement communities to multi-conceptual hospitals. Today, Kohlhaas is the acting lead consultant and Principal of Culinary Cultivations, where he works closely alongside his team members with clients on their varying operational needs.

A heartfelt thank you to Shawn Kohlhaas for his leadership as Culinary Chair. Shawn has built and leads a dedicated committee that continues to bring together an outstanding lineup of chefs and an experience that sets Taste of Hope apart. From concept to execution, the culinary experience is nothing short of exceptional and, as always, the true star of the show.

We’re grateful for the passion and creativity Shawn and his committee bring to this event, and we’re excited for Shawn to continue in this role for 2026.

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.