2018 Volunteer of the Year - Ace Marasigan

​“When you meet Ace Marasigan, it doesn't take long to realize his passion and community commitment. He's always looking for ways to help," said David Dams, West Michigan Region President. Ace, Banking Center Manager at Grand Rapids Downtown, was recently recognized for his efforts when he received the 2018 Wayne Henning Volunteer of the Year Award, presented to him by Old National Chairman and CEO Bob Jones.

Ace served over 350 volunteer hours last year. He volunteers in a variety of capacities in the community such as financial literacy training and hunger relief, but he's most noted for founding and leading the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival which began in 2017. The goal of the festival is to enrich Grand Rapids' cultural vibrancy by bringing together communities, businesses and local organizations to inspire, educate and celebrate Asian roots. The festival's first year had approximately 10,000 attendees. There were 12,000 in 2018, and they are anticipating 15,000 in 2019.

“You couldn't ask for a better representative of community banking than Ace," said Joe Kiser, Community Relations Manager. “He's a local celebrity. It takes Ace 20 minutes to walk two blocks, because he knows everyone and stops to talk. I often tell him that he could run for mayor. He's done a phenomenal job over the course of his career of building and deepening personal relationships with community influencers. He also has a huge heart."

When Ace heard of the plight of local TSA agents affected by the government shutdown, he took action. He utilized his strong community network to gather resources such as pizzas and gift cards and he arranged delivery to the agents. “Ace is like the Energizer Bunny," said David Dams. “He works before, during and after hours to help others."

“I feel incredibly honored to receive this recognition. We have so many wonderful, giving, community-focused associates at Old National Bank," said Ace.

The Wayne Henning Volunteer of the Year award was named in honor of Wayne Henning who retired in 2006 as Old National COO and is affectionately known as “Mr. Old National." This award is given annually to the ONB associate exemplifying the meaning of community care and involvement. The recipient receives $1,000 to donate to the charity of his or her choice.

“I very much appreciate this recognition, but I am most excited about the donation to the charity." Ace explained, “I have many friends in local nonprofit organizations, so I've decided to ask their help to bring volunteers to the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific festival, which ONB is the title sponsor. The group who supplies the most volunteer hours will receive the $1,000 donation. This is a WIN for all!"