/ ECS / Tom A. Stewart
“A lot of times, we don’t realize our character is being shaped while it’s happening – particularly when we’re young. And while I’m pretty sure I wanted to die when I was cleaning out those pig pens in the sweltering summer months of my youth, I’m certain that without the guidance of my parents through an organization like 4-H, I would not be the man I am today.”
Tom Stewart is a professional manager and business coach, with primary expertise in organization design and operation strategy. By providing management, tools and resources, Tom helps entrepreneurs make the most of the innovation they already possess – transforming their ideas into profitable, sustainable, and socially responsible organizations. Over the last decade, he has provided consultation to over 50 organizations in a wide range of industries – the majority of which were new or small companies to begin with. Additionally, Stewart has either invested in or started up 7 different businesses. Stewart attributes much of his business savvy and business operation skills to what he learned buying, raising and selling hogs in his younger 4-H years. His efforts have resulted in nearly $7 million in new client revenues and 60 new jobs in the greater Lansing area. Currently he manages portfolio and community relations at Quantum Medical Concepts and operates The Center for New Enterprise Opportunity. Additionally, he founded and is currently managing partner of CommonWealth Enterprises, LLC and NEO Center.
Besides his business skills, Stewart applies himself to helping out the community as he served as Board Chair for Art Alley, Chair for the Capital Area United Way’s Young Leadership Program, and is an Assistant Scout Master and a Venture Crew Leader of Boy Scouts of America. Stewart is a mentor to aspiring entrepreneurs at Michigan State University as he leads Spartan Innovations, The Hatch and Michigan State University Entrepreneurship Association, which are organizations where MSU students can start up their own business ideas. He led a Fire and Ice fundraiser event for Art Alley, which provided funding for a new furnace which helped to revitalize the building. Stewart was the winner of the Lansing Regional Chamber’s 10 Over the Next Ten award in 2010, was named MLive’s “Ones to Watch in 2013,” and recently received the very prestigious Michigan State University Young Alumni Award in 2015.
Through 4-H, I have become the person I am today. Not only has it made me who I am, but has given me lifelong friendships and leaders to look up to. 4-H and everyone I have met through 4-H has fostered my passion for animals and led me to the path I am considering for my future.
— Bridget Paidl, Menominee County
Become a permanent part of the Michigan 4-H Children's Garden by sponsoring a brick! Bricks can be donated in your name; in honor of a family, friend or club; or in memory of loved ones. Learn more: Sponsor a brick!.
he Michigan Farm Bureau 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award recognizes 4-H volunteers who exhibit excellence in 4-H youth education and leadership in agriculture-related areas. 2024 4-H Salute to Excellence Award winners pictured include Robert Richards (left) and Jennifer Specht (right). Click on the button below to view all of the 2024 4-H Legacy Award winners!