General Archives

Investing in Literacy to Strengthen Michigan’s Talent Pipeline

At TalentFirst, early literacy is foundational to our mission of strengthening West Michigan’s long‑term talent pipeline. Reading is not just an academic milestone—it is a...

Reach Out and Read Michigan Names TalentFirst to Honor Roll Class

Michigan organization recognized for advancing early literacy, strengthening family connection, and expanding equitable pediatric support GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Jan. 29, 2026) – Reach Out and...

Moving Michigan Males Forward: Why Young Men Are Falling Behind—And How Employers Can Help Lead the Solution

By Kevin Stotts, President, TalentFirst Across Michigan and the nation, young men are experiencing declining outcomes in education and workforce participation. They graduate high school...

How West Michigan Is Powering Early Literacy

Inside TalentFirst’s 2025 Adopt-a-Classroom Library Program Michigan is in an early literacy crisis. Only 38.9% of third graders read at grade level, putting thousands of...

TalentFirst Champions Early Literacy with Adopt-a-Classroom Library Program

Grand Rapids, MI – December 10, 2025 — TalentFirst today announced seven West Michigan elementary schools selected to receive new classroom libraries through its Adopt-A-Classroom...

Meet the Experts Joining our Inclusive Leadership Development Event

We’re pleased to announce the lineup for our Inclusive Leadership Development event, 9-11 a.m. Tuesday, March 12 at Grand Valley State University’s Kirkhof Center in...

A Q&A with DEI Leader Dr. Sandra Upton, Keynote for Our March 12 Event

Dr. Sandra Upton, founder and Chief DEI Strategist with Upton Consulting Group, will be the keynote speaker for our Inclusive Leadership Development event, 9-11 a.m....