Misti Lynn Stanton emerges as a fresh voice in the realm of diversity and inclusivity within Michigan. With a career spanning over 35 years in community and non-profit work, she currently holds the position of VP, Diversity & Inclusion Officer at Mercantile Bank of Michigan. Misti dedicates her efforts to fostering an inclusive work environment within a rapidly growing organization. Beyond her professional commitments, Misti is an active volunteer, contributing to various community organizations and advocating for youth literacy and community empowerment.
Having served the Grand Rapids Public Schools for more than a quarter of a century, Misti has held diverse roles. Prior to her current role, she functioned as the Program Manager for Heart of West Michigan United Way Schools of Hope, laying the foundation for the program’s inception.
Misti’s engagement extends to multiple community boards and initiatives. She possesses a fervent passion for literacy, education, and mentorship, dedicating her career to enhancing students’ academic journeys. Her guiding principle is that knowledge can be shared through the sharing of life experiences.
Misti’s journey includes several impactful milestones:
- Media & Public Relations Intern at Grand Rapids HOOPS: Misti Played a role in developing the Adopt-A-Hoop program and a summer camp coaching program.
- High School Coach: She served as the Head Coach for basketball, volleyball, and track for a total of 15 years, benefiting students at Central and Ottawa Hills High Schools.
- Grand Rapids Public Schools: Over a span of 25 years, Misti contributed significantly as a Program Assistant and Coordinator for the H.O.S.T.S. (Help One Student To Succeed) program, a Title One Literacy initiative for kindergarten through sixth grade. She received the National Exemplary Award for running one of the Finest H.O.S.T.S. sites in the nation. Misti also supervised the Time Out Center for students requiring additional focus and served as the Schools of Hope Coordinator for Harrison Elementary. Her legacy includes establishing the Estelle L. Smith Reading Corner, providing students with a cozy space to read. This idea expanded to the creation of 18 such corners throughout Grand Rapids Public Schools and Wyoming Public Schools
- Heart of West Michigan United Way: For 4.5 years, Misti contributed as the Schools of Hope Program Coordinator.
- Mercantile Bank of Michigan: Over a period of 9 years, Misti held the position of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer. Her efforts include the continuous development of robust DEI training, programming, and educational opportunities. She organizes monthly lead & learn sessions for the entire staff. Mist also established the Summer Intern Program for college students, involving community projects. Her achievements extend to initiating a Co-Op program in collaboration with GRPS, enabling high school students to gain firsthand experience in banking. She coordinates the Leadership Camp alongside Kirk Cousins. Misti developed this program to attract students from diverse backgrounds, offering them meaningful hands-on experiences and exposure to community-impact opportunities. The program imparts practical skills such as teamwork, customer service, multi-tasking, punctuality, and time management. It features guest speakers, field trips, significant projects, mentorships, and a community service Project. Every year, Mercantile Bank receives applications from diverse colleges and universities across the nation for positions throughout Michigan. Misti intentionally fosters diversity within the program, selecting top talent from varied walks of life. Through projects, lead & learn webinars, and community support events, interns are empowered to enhance their knowledge, forge professional connections, and broaden their perspectives.
- Mentorship: Misti actively mentors numerous staff members at Mercantile Bank, providing leadership, learning opportunities, and connections within the community.
In her spare time, Misti dedicates herself to volunteering, driven by a deep commitment to the community. She values the spirit of volunteerism and hands-on involvement that makes the region truly exceptional. Misti embraces diverse voices and perspectives, recognizing their strength when united in collaboration. She champions inclusivity efforts, emphasizing the significance of diverse community involvement in effecting positive change.
To shed light on her personal background:
- Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Alumni of Grand Rapids Public Schools, Class of 1984, Central High School
- Served as a High School Head Coach for Basketball, Volleyball, and Track at Central High School and Ottawa Hills High School
- Attended Grand Rapids Junior College as a student-athlete, and Jackson State University
Misti Lynn Stanton’s journey epitomizes dedication, resilience, and a profound commitment to fostering positive change within her community.
