BIO
Originally from New York City, Gregory has called the Grand Rapids area home since 1995. Prior to Grand Rapids, Gregory studied for his undergraduate degree in Ohio, followed by five and half years of graduate school in Europe. He also lived for many summers in Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
Gregory has volunteered at Kid’s Food Basket, ICCF, and at various animal shelters and rescues.
A member of Temple Emanuel, Gregory has served on the board of trustees and has been active in adult education and hospitality efforts.
An educator, writer, author – he’s a board member and featured writer for the Spiritual Naturalist Society.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Motivated by a desire for authentic community and convinced that people working together can bring about lasting, positive social change, Gregory fosters vibrant, sustained conversations on local issues and creates social opportunities across various communities and organizations.
Dedicated to affirming the dignity of all persons, Gregory works towards an inclusive community where all may participate fully in every aspect of social, cultural, and economic life. Gregory served on the board of directors of the Grand Rapids LGBT Network throughout the late 1990s, and was a co-founder and board member of Hinges, an LGBT professional networking organization, through the early 2000s. From 2010-2015, he was actively involved with Michigan for Marriage and Equality Michigan to help bring about same-sex marriage in Michigan and across the United States. Today, Gregory remains engaged in Fair Housing issues.
Gregory has a passion for animal welfare. How humans treat animals reflects deeply on the health of our culture and our souls. He is a pet owner and volunteers at some of the area shelters and rescues. He also advocates for improving the conditions and well-being of animals in factory farming operations.
An educator, speaker, author, blogger – he’s the co-founder of The Sunday Afternoon Dinner Club, an experiment connecting people over food and ideas.
