Pioneering Women’s Advocate Vernis Schad, Founding Force Behind Grand Rapids’ Women’s Resource Center, Passes Away at 91—Her Legacy Empowers Generations

GRAND RAPIDS, MI — With deep sorrow and profound respect, the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) and the broader West Michigan community mourn the passing of Vernis Schad, one of the pioneering founders of the Women’s Resource Center, whose visionary leadership in the early 1970s laid the foundation for a transformative legacy of empowerment, opportunity, and advocacy for women.

Vernis Schad, who passed away peacefully at the age of 91, leaves behind a powerful legacy that continues to inspire. In 1971, a pivotal conference at Aquinas College brought together bold, passionate women committed to advancing gender equity. From that moment of inspiration came action—and just two years later, in 1973, Vernis and a dedicated group of women officially opened the doors of the Women’s Resource Center at Grand Rapids Junior College.

The creation of WRC was more than an organizational milestone—it was a movement. Under Vernis’s leadership, the center quickly became a haven for women seeking purpose, career direction, and economic stability. Landmark programs such as Career Development and the Displaced Homemaker Program emerged under her guidance, offering critical support to women transitioning through challenging life circumstances—often after divorce, widowhood, or economic hardship.

Thanks to the foresight and dedication of Vernis and her peers, WRC’s model quickly drew national attention. In 1976, a comprehensive case study on WRC was published to help replicate the center’s success across the country, laying the groundwork for a network of similar women-centered agencies that still thrive today.

An Enduring Legacy of Service and Support

Though decades have passed since those early years, Vernis Schad remained an active and passionate supporter of WRC’s mission. She was a familiar face at milestone events and was most recently present to help celebrate the organization’s 50th anniversary—a testament to her lifelong commitment to empowering women through education, career opportunities, and personal growth.

Trudy Ender, the current CEO of Women’s Resource Center, spoke with warmth and admiration about the personal connection she shared with Vernis:

“I had the joy of spending time with Vernis as we were building a relationship on the shared passion for the mission of WRC. We shared stories, cookies, and lots of laughter. In those moments, a meaningful partnership began to grow. Vernis was sweet, deeply caring, and always willing to mentor. It meant so much to feel her support and to know she was still cheering us on as we continue the work she began.”

The outpouring of love and memories from former colleagues, program participants, and community leaders paints a picture of a woman whose strength was matched only by her compassion. Vernis was not only a strategic thinker and program developer—she was a mentor, a listener, and a fierce believer in the potential of every woman who walked through the doors of WRC.

A Community in Mourning—and Celebration of a Life Well Lived

As the community grieves, there is also a resounding call to honor Vernis by continuing the work she began. The programs she helped build have touched tens of thousands of lives and continue to provide job training, career counseling, and financial education to women of all backgrounds.

Today, WRC stands not just as an institution, but as a living, breathing tribute to Vernis Schad’s enduring belief: that every woman deserves the chance to live a life of purpose, financial independence, and dignity.

Visitation and obituary details for Vernis Schad can be found here.

In memory of Vernis, the Women’s Resource Center encourages those touched by her work to continue her legacy through acts of mentorship, support, and advocacy in their own communities.

“Thank you, Vernis. You showed us what it means to lead with heart.”