Chris is President of the Jim Gilmore, Jr. Foundation, a position held since the Foundation’s beginning in 2012 and has worked for the Gilmore companies since 1974. Previously, he was Executive Vice President of Gilmore Enterprises Corporation, managing the multi-state real estate arm of the organization. Chris has a Bachelor of Music degree in performance and music education from Western Michigan University and a Master of Music degree from Northern Michigan University as well as continuing education in property management from the Institute of Real Estate Management. Recently retired from the Battle Creek Symphony Orchestra after 30 years as Principal Trombone, Chris performs with church ensembles and other chamber groups. Chris is married to Kathy, a cellist in the Kalamazoo Symphony. They have 3 grown children. He is currently Board Chair of the Kalamazoo Cultural Center; a member of the New Year’s Fest; and Vice President of the Oakland Drive Winchell Neighborhood Association; Board Chair, Fontana Chamber Arts; and Secy./Treasurer, International Trombone Association and President of the Kalamazoo Federation of Musicians, Local 228. Chris has served as Chair of the Downtown Development Authority and Downtown Kalamazoo Incorporated as well as the Kalamazoo Downtown Partnership and miscellaneous Downtown Committees. He is also a member of St. Augustine Cathedral Parish and the Rotary Club of Kalamazoo.