Education
B.A., Political Science, Western Michigan University
M.P.A., Public Administration, Western Michigan University

John Van Fossen joined Clark Hill in 2007. He is the practice group leader of the Government and Public Affairs Group and provides advice and advocacy for State and Federal clients.

Prior to joining Clark Hill, John served as Director of Public Affairs for the Van Andel Institute, a private cancer research institute in Grand Rapids, Michigan. From 1999-2004 John served as Chief of Staff to Congressman Pete Hoekstra, (R-MI). As Chief of Staff, John was responsible for advising the Congressman on all political and public policy matters, developing the office’s legislative agenda and strategy, and managing the day to day operations of four congressional offices in Michigan and Washington, D.C. During his tenure with Congressman Hoekstra, John worked as the primary staff liaison for the Congressman to the House Budget Committee, House Education and Workforce Committee, House leadership offices, Republican Study Committee, the executive branch, local and national labor unions, education reform groups and city, county and state governments.

John also served for 3 years as Vice President for a federal public policy and governmental advocacy firm where he successfully advised and advocated for several clients in Washington, D.C.

John has more than fifteen years of experience working in local, state and federal governments, as well as the non-profit sector, and he has developed an extensive background in organizational leadership, project management and governmental advocacy. John began his career in local government focusing on city management and economic development where he was responsible for overseeing a wide variety of commercial and industrial development and redevelopment initiatives.

John received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Masters in Public Administration from Western Michigan University.