Joe Haas

Trustee, Board of Trustees

Trustee Profile

P. Joseph Haas, Jr. serves as a trustee for Glen Oaks Community College, bringing decades of legal expertise, civic leadership, and dedication to southwest Michigan. Raised in Mendon, Joe’s service reflects a long-standing commitment to public institutions, workforce development, and community connection.

His work on the Board is informed by experience in law, local government, and nonprofit leadership.

Professional and Community Background

Joe is a graduate of Mendon High School (Class of 1984) and earned a Bachelor of Arts in economics from Kalamazoo College. He completed his Juris Doctor at the University of Kentucky College of Law.

He is currently a shareholder at HaasCaywood PC, a law firm with offices in Sturgis and Coldwater, Michigan. Joe is an active member of the St. Joseph County Bar Association, the State Bar of Michigan, and the Indiana Bar Association. He frequently presents on legal and civic topics throughout the region.

Service to Glen Oaks

As a trustee, Joe supports the college through governance, policy oversight, and strategic guidance. His connection to Glen Oaks extends beyond Board service; he has presented seminars at the college and has worked with organizations such as the St. Joseph County Human Resources Council, Michigan Works, and the Michigan Finance Officers Association to support workforce education and training initiatives.

His approach emphasizes collaboration between education, government, and industry to meet regional needs.

Community Leadership and Recognition

Joe has an extensive record of public service in St. Joseph County and the surrounding region. His leadership roles have included service with:

Sturgis City Commission
Sturgis Exchange Club
Sturgis Elks Lodge
Sturgis Area Community Foundation
Sturgis Hospital
St. Joseph County United Way
Sturgis Chamber of Commerce
St. Joseph County Transportation Authority

In recognition of his civic contributions, the Sturgis Area Chamber of Commerce named Joe Sturgis Citizen of the Year in 2015 and he received the Book of Golden Deeds Award from the Sturgis Exchange Club in 2023.

Personal Background

Joe and his wife, Joyce, are the parents of two grown sons, Patrick (Cassidy) and Jacob (Jami), and are grandparents to Phin and Oliver. Whether serving clients or supporting community initiatives, Joe remains deeply committed to strengthening St. Joseph County as a place to live, work, learn and play.

Governance Role

Trustees serve in a governance and policy-making capacity and are not involved in the day-to-day operations of the college. Operational leadership is provided by the President and executive leadership team.