Shawn BeenePGS (M.B.A. '08)

“Cornerstone’s PGS program was very direct and easily applicable to most of our occupations as students," said Beene. "The curriculum  is designed in a way to allow small PLT groups to apply classroom lecture and studies to related projects of their choice which, many times, were directly work-related, allowing me to look at how I do what I do on the job in a different manner.  I was able to apply what was learned in class directly to what I do both on and off the job.  It was an added value to my education to have practical application so feasibly incorporated into my everyday work."

Beene speaks highly of The Potter's House, “The school provides a Christ-centered education to children of all ethnic heritages and income levels, equipping them to serve God and society to their fullest potential.  As a product/graduate of The Potter’s House and graduate from Cornerstone’s PGS program I’ve learned to value diversity and have sought to serve others in unique ways.  My thinking is unique and non-traditional.  I’ve always liked to think outside of the box and have always sought after doing things differently.  The PGS program focuses on a concept known as BAM (Business As Missions).  Some of these same concepts I’ve been able to apply not only to my work at The Potter’s House, but to Rain Nutrition.  Both The Potter’s House and Rain Nutrition have made attempts to think outside the box, become more diverse in what they do as well as serve the community by creating opportunities for others that might not otherwise have that same experience."

In addition to his responsibilities at The Potter’s House, Shawn recently started an entrepreneurial venture by joining the Rain Nutrition Legacy Marketing Group out of Illinois. His goals are ambitious and community-focused.

He explains, “Our mission (at Rain Nutrition) is to develop leaders providing a proven success system.  We mentor individual to grow with purpose and integrity to achieve their personal and financial goals; creating a lasting legacy for families.”  Rain Nutrition will publicly launch on April 23, 2010 in Las Vegas. 

“Education is something that should be shared.  Why learn something if you can’t share or exemplify it?  I’d have to say that my education has taught me to share and help to make a difference.  At Rain Nutrition we’ve taken on an attitude of helping others.  Many people’s lives are being enriched through their involvement with Rain Nutrition.  In my Development work at The Potter’s House it is my objective to do the best I can to serve those that support our organization.  We create opportunities for people’s involvement whether that is through direct financial support, through a partnership with a student or through offering opportunities for volunteering with students in the classrooms."

In the next couple of years Beene plans to begin a doctorate program. He explains, "Obtaining my DBA is the next level for me.  I’d like to serve the Grand Rapids community in a more direct way and having a doctorate level study will only deepen my level of ability to make that desired difference.  I hope to put several different means in place over time with the intent to abate the racism and prejudices in our own city and to create an atmosphere and environment that personifies what heaven might look like.  I’m saddened to see the separation of ethnic groups in our city and seek to see more unity as our community at large develops and becomes more enriched.”