Ghassan and Manal’s remarkably accomplished careers, which include a number of public and private sector roles, are rivalled only by the extraordinary scope of their commitment to numerous worthy causes. Their unwavering support of various impactful institutions that are changing lives across the world embodies the spirit of compassion that is at the heart of ACCESS’ efforts to empower our communities.
Ghassan currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Sorensen Gross Company, the largest full line construction services organization in Flint, MI, and is a widely admired benefactor and leader of numerous organizations, including several dedicated to celebrating Arab American cultural identity.
Both Ghassan and Manal are dedicated to the revitalization of the city of Flint. Ghassan is also a founder of the Uptown Development Group, which works to rejuvenate and rebuild the neglected and deteriorated downtown area of Flint, and has been celebrated for his outstanding personal and professional accomplishments through numerous awards and recognitions, including the coveted Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
Among her many achievements, Manal, who currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Sorenson Gross Construction Services in Flint, MI, is a longstanding patron and Emeritus member of the Board of Governors of ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the nation’s leading hospital in cancer research for children. She is also central to the work of the Arab American National Museum (AANM), and serves as the Chair of the Museum’s National Advisory Board.
As a testament to Ghassan and Manal’s lifelong commitment to improving lives across the globe and especially in Flint, a city that has recently been plagued by a devastating water crisis and public health emergency, their extraordinary generosity and strategic philanthropy has been recognized through many awards and accolades, including the esteemed Russel G. Mawby Award for Philanthropy, which they received together in 2010.
Both Ghassan and Manal have also served extensively on the National Professional Advisory Board of the Center for Arab American Philanthropy (CAAP), a national program of ACCESS dedicated to demonstrating the power of giving collectively to improve the lives of others across the U.S. and the world.
We are tremendously honored that Ghassan and Manal will be accepting our 2016 Arab American of the Year award. Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of this landmark event, as we honor these distinguished award recipients.
The ACCESS 45th Annual Dinner will take place at the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center on Saturday, April 23 at 6:00 pm.
Online ticketing is now closed. Limited space is still available. For tickets please call Jennifer Fisher 313-297-4263 or email at jfisher@accesscommunity.org. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.
