Refugee Education Center Appoints Trudy Ender as New Executive Director

The Refugee Education Center hired Trudy Ender as the organization’s new executive director. Ender began her role with the Kentwood-based refugee support organization on September 8, 2020.  

"We are very excited to have Trudy join our organization," said Blerta Bushati, Refugee Education Center Board of Directors chair. "She brings a wealth of experience leading non-profit organizations. Her passion to serve and be an advocate for our refugee community, as well as her desire to lead our team and continue to build partnerships with other organizations will set us up to succeed in our mission."

After leading at the Humane Society of West Michigan, Ender was most recently the executive director for Susan G. Komen Michigan. She has more than eight years of experience in nonprofit leadership in Michigan. A priority when she takes the reins will be to work with the board and leadership team to continue to expand educational and community program opportunities for local refugee families as well as to encourage and embrace diversity in West Michigan.

"I couldn't be more excited to join the important work of the Refugee Education Center and serve refugee families and our community," said Ender. "I'll join the team as we invite, include, and walk alongside refugees in their journey of transition to our culture while preserving their own."

While refugee resettlement numbers decreased nationally in 2020 due to changes in federal immigration policies, the Refugee Education Center continues to serve the expansive West Michigan refugee community with post-resettlement programs designed to help families navigate the education system and the effects of COVID-19 on day-to-day life.