Kenneth Jay Kuipers, PhD, passed away on September 24, 2025. Dr. Kuipers served as County Commissioner for District 19 in Kent County, Michigan, for more than two decades and chaired the Kent County Board of Commissioners in 1993.

A longtime representative of the National Association of Counties on the NCCHC Board of Directors, Dr. Kuipers also served as chair of the Board in 1996. Drawing on his expertise in business and finance—and his tenure as a professor of business at Calvin College—he was later elected Treasurer of NCCHC, a position he held for many years. He also contributed his insight and leadership as a member of the NCCHC Accreditation Committee.

In retirement, Dr. Kuipers found great joy in music, performing on saxophone with the Grand Rapids Symphonic Band, the Scottville Clown Band, and Sam’s Swing Band. His dedication, leadership, and service leave a lasting legacy within NCCHC and the broader correctional health care community.