[April 4, 2022] [KALAMAZOO, Mich.] –MRC Industries, Inc. is pleased to announce the board of directors has selected Daniel Pontius as the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer effective May 16, 2022.  Daniel will lead MRC in carrying out its mission to encourage and support individuals living with a disability to achieve their fullest potential through employment, skill-building and active community involvement.

Daniel will be replacing Chris Zeigler, who is retiring after 15 years of service leading the Kalamazoo-based non-profit.   The MRC Board Selection Committee worked with local executive search firm Welsh and Associates in the recruitment and selection of its new Chief Executive Officer.

“Daniel’s passion and commitment to helping people paired with his drive for success make us confident that he is the right person to guide MRC into the future,” said Board Chair Kelsey Bailey. “He has proven his ability to lead a team and successfully implement programs in one of the largest non-profit organizations in Southwest Michigan for the past decade.”

“During her tenure, we have been fortunate to have Chris Zeigler and her leadership at MRC,” said Kelsey.  “Chris has always kept the people that we serve at the center of her decisions, ensuring the programs are providing value and will be sustainable for years to come.  We wish her all the best in her retirement.”

“I am confident the board made the right decision and am looking forward to working with Daniel as MRC transitions to his leadership,” said Chris.

Daniel previously served as the Chief Operations Officer for Milestone Senior Services, formerly Senior Services Southwest Michigan.  Milestone Senior Services is a comprehensive agency that supports older adults and persons with disabilities in Southwest Michigan.  Daniel brings a depth of experience in the operations of home and community-based services, social enterprise, fund development, quality improvement, state and federal policy and regulation, strategic advancement, advocacy and building key community partnerships. He has a passion for serving and advocating for underserved and underrepresented populations.

In addition to his work, Daniel is an Adjunct Professor for Kalamazoo Valley Community College.  He serves on the Senior Care Partners P.A.C.E. Board of Directors, the Kalamazoo Valley Community College Culinary Advisory Committee, and the Bronson Healthy Living Campus Strategy Team.  He has owned and operated a small e-commerce business since 2013. 

Daniel holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Organizational Development and a Master of Science in Management, both from Spring Arbor University.

“I am thankful and eager to begin working with the MRC Industries, Inc. team and continuing the work I am most passionate about,” said Daniel.  “It is a gift and honor to serve individuals with disabilities in our local community by increasing their independence and providing the support necessary to achieve their fullest potential.” 

“Chris Zeigler’s Leadership and commitment to this community has created a healthy organization that will allow the MRC team and myself to continue this important work,” adds Daniel.  “She has led MRC to a position that will afford further growth and service and I am truly honored to have the opportunity to continue her passionate work.”

About MRC Industries, Inc.

MRC Industries, Inc. is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization in Kalamazoo providing employment, skill-building and case management services to individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injury and/or mental illness. 

MRC serves approximately 600 individuals each year with the philosophy that every person is unique, valued and entitled to be treated with respect and dignity.   This philosophical framework results in programs and services focused on an individual's needs, desires, strengths and abilities. 

Funding sources include individual and corporate donor contributions, community-wide fundraising events such as the Kalamazoo Klassic, federal, state and local grants, Community Mental Health, United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region, fees for contracted work, and gifts to the Annual Campaign and Endowment.