Nonprofit leader receives national honor

Feb 24

Photo courtesy of West Michigan Sports Commission

West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC) President Mike Guswiler was named Chief Executive of the Year by Sports ETA, the only trade association for the sports events and tourism industry, at its Chief Executive Summit held in Fort Worth, Texas.

Guswiler is only the second person to receive this recognition and was selected by Sports ETA staff among sports tourism executives from 800 member organizations across the country. He accepted the award during the general session luncheon of the Chief Executive Summit, a gathering of 140 presidents, CEOs, and executive directors of sports destinations, industry partners and sports events.

“Mike Guswiler is a true leader for the sports events and tourism industry and deserves this prestigious honor to recognize his leadership of the West Michigan Sports Commission as well as Sports ETA where he served as a former board member,” said John David, president & CEO, Sports ETA. “We congratulate and thank Mike for his continued service and leadership.”

The Sports ETA Executive of the Year Award honors professional excellence of its members who embody visionary leadership, exhibit an unwavering dedication and make an enduring impact on their organization, the Sports ETA, and in the sports events and tourism industry. This annual award recognizes an individual who has set the standard for excellence, pushed the boundaries of what is possible, and consistently elevated the profession.

“I’m so honored to receive this prestigious award by Sports ETA in front of my peers,” said Guswiler. “It is humbling to be the second recipient of this new award, especially noting the caliber of my colleagues in this association.”

Guswiler has worked more than 30 years in the hospitality and tourism industry for private and nonprofit organizations focused on tourism economic development. He has led the WMSC since its inception in 2007, where he oversees commission operations, the Meijer State Games of Michigan and the championship-caliber Meijer Sports Complex, which the organization built, owns, operates, and is now managing a $13.5 million expansion slated for completion in early 2026. Under his leadership, the commission has booked 1,328 events attracting more than 2.4 million athletes and visitors, generating over $738 million in direct visitor spending since 2007. A Sports ETA board member from 2010 to 2014, Guswiler serves on the West Michigan Miracle League Board. Past leadership roles include serving as chairman of the Transplant Games of America Board, and member of the Grand Rapids Rowing Association Advisory Board.