The first-ever Childcare Champions of Michigan awards honored 12 employers working to make child care more affordable and accessible. Hosted by Pulse at the Upjohn Institute and the Early Childhood Investment Corporation, the Sept. 18 ceremony in East Lansing recognized employers across the state who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to supporting working parents and advancing access to quality child care.
The awards celebrate employers who have taken significant strides in offering on-site child care, providing child care subsidies, and implementing flexible work policies that ease the burden on working parents. As the state continues to face challenges with child care accessibility, the awardees stand out for their innovation and leadership in addressing a critical need for families.
"These businesses are playing a critical role in strengthening Michigan’s economy by investing in the well-being of their employees and their families," said Kathy Szenda Wilson, founder and co-executive director of Pulse. "The awards highlight the importance of addressing child care challenges and demonstrate that when employers invest in solutions, everyone benefits.”
More than 70 business leaders, policymakers and advocates attended the ceremony, which featured speakers, networking opportunities, and discussions on the future of child care policy. Childcare Champions of Michigan awards went to:
- Dale Kapla & Gretchen Preston, Northern Michigan University & Gretchen’s House
- Brigid Wilson, Munson Healthcare
- Jennifer DiSanza, McLaren Health
- Laurie Johnson, Health West
- Holli Schlukebir & Sarah Schlukebir, Peterson’s Farms
- Christine Snyder, University of Michigan
- Lindsay Hudson, Ross Design & Engineering
- Jon-Paul Jones, Saint Gobain
- Erin Ludwig, Edward Jones
- Samantha Mitchell, Children’s Discovery Academy
- Andy Richards, Duncan Aviation
Alicia Guevara Warren, CEO of Early Childhood Investment Corporation, called the event inspiring. "We learned that all types of Michigan employers — from farms to universities to health care systems — are taking meaningful actions to improve access to affordable, high-quality child care for their employees and their communities.
“The Early Childhood Investment Corporation looks forward to co-sponsoring this event again in 2025, and the opportunity to recognize and honor even more Michigan employers."
Pulse is a partner, advocate and coach improving early childhood development in Michigan. More information is at pulseroadmap.org and the Pulse YouTube page.