After receiving a $5 million donation earlier this year -- the largest in its history -- John Ball Zoo will nearly double in size by 2014. As executive director of the John Ball Zoo Society, Brenda Stringer's job is all about challenge and possibilities.

After getting a taste of the contemporary, urban atmosphere in Grand Rapids, Heather Dewitt chose to stay after graduating in 2010 from nearby Grand Valley State University. First experiencing the city as a college student living in the Heritage Hill area her senior year, Dewitt relocated to downtown. Knowing there was more to experience in the city, the creativity and community offered by Grand Rapids ultimately lured her to the Center City district.

The UICA has left the 28,000 sq. foot space on Sheldon Blvd. and is on the precipice of opening the doors of a new 40,000 sq. foot home on the corner of Fulton St. and Division Ave. within The Gallery on Fulton.