Our State of Education

The Role of Philanthropy and Nonprofits

July 6, 2026 ~ Strong communities are built by people who choose to show up for one another. Across Michigan, nonprofits, foundations, businesses, government agencies, and community organizations work every day to tackle challenges, create opportunity, and improve lives. While their approaches may differ, they share a common goal: helping communities thrive. On this episode of Our State of Education, hosts Angelique Power and Lloyd Jackson explore the role that philanthropy and nonprofits play in strengthening communities and supporting long-term change. From investing in new ideas and building partnerships to responding to community needs and supporting the people doing the work, these organizations help create the conditions for progress. Hear from Yazeed Moore of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Dave Egner of the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, Wendy Lewis Jackson of The Kresge Foundation, and Kelley Kuhn of the Michigan Nonprofit Association as they discuss leadership, collaboration, community investment, the challenges facing the nonprofit sector, and what gives them hope for Michigan's future. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Partnering for Change

June 1, 2026 ~ We are builders here in Michigan. Yes, autos. Yes, new tech start-ups. Yes, the future of mobility. Yes, award-winning waterfronts; Yes, music and art that have shaped American culture. But more quietly, maybe more importantly, in this purple state of Michigan, we build bridges between each other, across difference, toward something new. At The Skillman Foundation, our mission is to nurture the brilliance of youth. We do it by listening to them and the people closest to them, helping them redesign public education so it propels every student toward a brilliant future. That’s the what. Then there’s the how. By rooting in community and then linking arms with as many people from as many sectors, cities, and walks of life to help make this happen. On this episode of Our State of Education, hear from Michiganders who are improving the lives of children in collaborative, innovative ways. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Detroit’s Groundbreaking Plan for Youth

May 4, 2026 ~ Detroit’s new mayor is putting young people at the center of city government, and this episode looks at how that vision is taking shape. Hosts Angelique Power of The Skillman Foundation and WJR’s Lloyd Jackson speak with Mayor Mary Sheffield and her team about a first-of-its-kind, citywide approach to youth, education, and the challenges students face beyond the classroom. Listen to learn how Detroit plans to better coordinate transportation, after-school opportunities, and youth voices across city government. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New State Superintendent's Vision for Michigan’s Schools

April 13, 2026 ~ Michigan’s public education system is entering an important new chapter, shaped by statewide decisions that affect classrooms, communities, and students across the state. At The Skillman Foundation, we believe a strong public education system depends on a clear vision, shared responsibility and leadership that keeps students at the center. The choices made at the state level play a critical role in how schools serve young people and families. In this episode of Our State of Education, we are joined by Michigan’s new State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Dr. Glenn Maleyko, to explore his vision for Michigan’s education system, the role of the State Superintendent, and the priorities guiding this moment. We will discuss where Michigan is headed and what it will take to build a system that helps every student thrive. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

School Funding: Why, How, & What’s Next

March 9, 2026 ~ We are taking a step back to examine one of the most important and least understood parts of Michigan’s education system: how public schools are funded. From Proposal A to more recent policy updates, Michigan’s funding system has been shaped over decades of decisions that continue to influence what schools can offer students today. At the Skillman Foundation we believe a strong, future-ready education system is foundational to opportunity, economic vitality, and thriving communities. While funding changes have helped address some disparities, slow overall investment growth and rising student needs have created new challenges that affect classrooms across the state. Our guests—State Senator Sarah Anthony; Venessa Keesler, President & CEO of Launch Michigan; and Craig Thiel, Research Director of Citizens Research Council—help break down how school funding works today, why it looks the way it does, and what improvements could make possible for students, educators, and communities statewide. This conversation offers context for understanding where Michigan’s education system stands, and what it will take to strengthen it for the future. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.