The local marketing agency founder was recently hailed as a sustainability leader.

Deksia’s Aaron VanderGalien was recognized last week as the first Impact Icon by Ecomedes Inc., a database of sustainable building owners, designers and builders. This title honors leaders within the built environment who contribute to laying the foundation for a sustainable future.

Deksia Senior Partner VanderGalien leads an entrepreneurial company working to make an impact in the community by transforming a historic building in the Grand Rapids area into Deksia offices .

“Deksia works to give our clients a fighting chance by giving them a voice and increasing their marketing presence quickly and efficiently,” said VanderGalien. “It is a bonus that our team can do the same for our buildings and neighborhoods in Grand Rapids through building renovations and community building. We will continue to work hard to ensure that.”

Deksia’s newly opened office at 49 Coldbrook St. NE, shared with HealthBar, is a recently renovated historic building. The new energy-efficient space was transformed using the biophilic approach, an interior design concept that enhances connectivity to the natural environment, and now features 350 plants throughout the building.

Ecomedes CEO Kathleen Egan said: “These impact his icons make our world a better place through their achievements, and we are thrilled to honor and celebrate them.”

VanderGalien is one of nine people recognized as Impact Icons. More information and nominees can be found here.