Mary Tuuk Kuras
Mary Tuuk Kuras is a seasoned executive leader with four years of performing arts experience, 3-1/2 years of retail experience, 19 years of financial services experience, and an additional 6 years of legal experience. She is also a lifelong singer, pianist, organist, and violinist. Mary’s unique blend of executive leadership experience, business acumen and musical background positions her well to provide leadership and consulting in numerous sectors.
As Principal of MTK Practical Leadership, Mary helps executives learn practical leadership skills that aren’t taught in traditional education or corporate settings. She served as President and CEO of the Grand Rapids Symphony during the COVID-19 pandemic, as a C-Suite executive for Meijer, Inc. during a time of significant expansion, and as a C-Suite executive and Chief Risk Officer for Fifth Third Bancorp during the 2008 financial crisis. Mary currently serves as a Board member of UFP Industries, Inc., a public company, and United Bank of Michigan, a private company. She also serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees of Calvin University and as a Trustee of Davenport University.
Mary graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Calvin University in 1986, majoring in Business and Music. In 1990, she completed her J.D. and M.B.A. degrees from Indiana University. While at IU, she studied organ with Dr. Larry Smith.
Mary has extensive singing experience with the Chamber Choir of Grand Rapids, West Michigan Camerata Singers, Cincinnati Vocal Arts Ensemble, and Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus. She has also served as a professional soprano section leader with various church choirs, including Christ Church Cathedral in Cincinnati, and Mayflower Congregational Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She has performed as a soprano soloist with the Grand Rapids Symphony and West Michigan Symphony. Mary studied voice with Stanley Kolk and Diane Triplett Biser.
Mary and her husband, Patrick, reside in Grand Rapids, Michigan and sing in the Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus. In their free time, they enjoy concerts, hiking, cycling, boating and travel. They also cherish time with family and friends.