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The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Christopher J. Caldwell to its Board of Directors. Chris replaces long-time board member Dirk Hoffius; his two-year term begins January 2023.

Chris earned his Bachelor of Arts in History at Hope College, and his Juris Doctorate at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. Today, he is Partner and Chair of Varnum’s Estate Planning Practice Team, where he regularly advises clients on complex estate planning, succession, and tax planning needs including charitable trusts and annuities. His focus is on empowering families through the development of sophisticated estate planning solutions, including multi-generational business operations, tax minimization, and cottage law. He has been recognized as one of the Best Lawyers in America® since 2013, included in Grand Rapids Magazine’s Top Lawyers for Trusts and Estates since 2019 and Leading Lawyers Trust, Will & Estate Planning Law.

Chris maintains multiple professional affiliations and is active in our community. He has previously held Board positions at Fountain Street Church Foundation, Home Repair Services, Widowed Persons Service and the Porter Hills Planned Giving Committee.

Chris is passionate about the Foundation’s mission and vision and is eager to begin his term with the Foundation’s Board!