Johnson, along with several associates, founded Mercantile Bank in 1997.

Press Release

July 10, 2009

Hanover College President Sue DeWine has appointed Gerald R. Johnson, Jr., executive director of the Business Scholars Program. Delivered through the College's Center for Business Preparation, the Business Scholars Program combines the strengths of a traditional liberal arts education with focused, intensive preparation for students interested in careers in business.

Johnson has been a leader in the banking industry in Grand Rapids, Mich., for more than 30 years. In his most-recent role, he served as chairman of the board, chief executive officer and director of Mercantile Bank Corporation (NASDAQ:MBWM) and chairman of the board of Mercantile Bank of Michigan. Johnson, along with several associates, founded Mercantile Bank in 1997.

"Today's leaders and managers face tougher challenges than ever before," said DeWine. "Cultivating an educational environment so our students will later thrive in the workforce will require new insights and skill sets. I have confidence that Mr. Johnson will fully prepare our students for that next step in their career."

A 1969 Hanover graduate, Johnson also has served as a member of the College's Board of Trustees since 2004. He has been a strong advocate for the Business Scholars Program - frequently a guest speaker in its classes - and will resign his post on the board to direct the program.

"I believe that Hanover's business students will be the next great ambassadors for promoting and strengthening business ties between all disciplines," said Johnson. "I look forward to working with the outstanding individuals currently in the program, to recruiting additional high-achieving students to be business scholars, and to help them develop as tomorrow’s leaders."

Active in the Grand Rapids community, Johnson serves on numerous philanthropic boards and committees throughout West Michigan. He also is currently the chair of the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan and chairman emeritus of the Greater Michigan American Diabetes Association Board of Trustees.

Hanover's Business Scholars Program selects students with demonstrated potential to become the next generation of business leaders. The three-year curriculum provides this select group with a fundamental background in business education, provides numerous opportunities for the scholars to apply knowledge in real business settings through required project-based internships and consulting projects, and allows students to make contacts that will be useful in exploring careers and securing employment.

Located on 650 acres between Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Louisville, Hanover is recognized as one of the top liberal arts colleges in America with respected programs in more than 28 areas of study. Founded in 1827, Hanover is the oldest private, four-year college in Indiana.

Source: Hanover College