As a union leader in Grand Rapids, when she discovered male and female teachers with identical resumes being paid differently, Wendy Winston worked to resolve the disparity. She cites the example for why the intersectional fight for gender equity and human rights must go on.

In accepting MEA’s 2026 Maurine Wyatt Feminist and Gender Equity Award, Winston called on education professionals to unite and fight collectively for students and the profession: “No one is showing up to save us. We are the saviors of our democracy.”

A 20-year math teacher, Winston’s long resume has included advocating for students as chair of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s MI-STEM Advisory Council and serving in numerous union roles, including her local’s executive board, Region 9 vice president, MEA PAC leader, and NEA director, among others.

“Wendy is a dedicated urban educator in Grand Rapids Public Schools who always puts students first,” nominator Jeff Pietrowski said in presenting Winston with the award. “Her work reflects a deep, unwavering commitment to feminism, human rights, civil rights, and public education.”

Winston was a regional semi-finalist for 2020 Michigan Teacher of the Year and serves as a delegate to the MEA and NEA Representative Assemblies, chair of the Michigan Democratic Party Educator Caucus, and a member of the MEA Communications and Statewide Screening and Recommendation committees and the MEA Legislation Commission.

Calling Winston hardworking and deeply committed to service, Pietrowski said her efforts from the local school board to Lansing and Washington, D.C., ensure the voices of educators, students and communities are heard at every level — from classrooms to the halls of Congress.

“Wendy brings clarity and purpose to policy conversations, helping decision makers better understand the real impacts on families and schools,” Pietrowski said. “She’s a tireless advocate for equity and excellence, and she has a remarkable ability to inspire others to become more politically engaged and to step into leadership roles.”

Winston accepted the award at the MEA Winter Conference in Detroit, quipping: “If you are in the know, the top of my notes say Shark Week,” referencing Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s hot-mic moment at the 2020 Democratic National Convention that became a viral sensation.

She outlined core values driving her engagement in collective action — to strengthen public education, ensure economic fairness, and demand a democracy that delivers both security and freedom.

“That’s going to be my call to action today, that we unite and advocate collectively.”

Winston led the audience in “class participation,” asking them to stand or raise hands and fists in solidarity against tyranny. “This is the time to fight. Who’s ready to protect public education? Who’s ready to protect democracy?”

Read More: Four MEA award winners named for 2026

• David McMahon Human Rights Award — Kathleen Kosobud
• Maurine Wyatt Feminist and Gender Equity Award — Wendy Winston
• Educational Excellence Award — Daniel Clason
• Gerry Crane Human and Civil Rights Award — Frank Burger