MI SoundBoard

For many Michigan families, access to nutritious food is a challenge that doesn't end when the school day does. In this episode of MI SoundBoard, Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, speaks with Katlyn Cardoso, Director of Communications and Brand Strategy at Greater Lansing Food Bank, about how schools and food banks can work together to support families. They discuss rising demand for food assistance, connecting families with local resources during weekends and school breaks, and reducing stigma so families feel comfortable seeking help.

In this episode, Executive Director Don Wotruba sits down with new MASB Board President Pam Dickinson to explore her personal journey and motivations for joining her local school board. Pam shares her core goals for the year ahead alongside key reflections and lessons learned from her time in educational leadership.

Get a sneak peek at what's in store for this year's Annual Leadership Conference on this episode of MISoundboard! We're joined by Mimi Brown, CSP, one of the 2026 ALC keynote speakers, for a preview of her general session on establishing and using your voice as a leader. Tune in for a taste of the insights, inspiration, and energy she'll be bringing to the conference!

Back-to-school season means the return of Brad's Legal Tips for every school district! Brad Banasik, J.D., Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy, is back with timely legal insights and practical advice to help school districts navigate today's biggest challenges. From Title IX to the growing complexities of FOIA, Brad breaks down what school leaders need to know to stay informed, prepared and compliant.

In this episode of MISoundBoard, we sit down with Venessa Keesler, Ph.D., President and CEO of Launch Michigan, to explore the Michigan Education Guarantee—what it promises for students and how its vision can become a reality in classrooms across the state.