Aspiring educators who are stepping up to lead in their chosen profession gathered to learn, plan and play at a leadership retreat for members from MEA’s college ranks to kick off this academic year. About 30 students from 10 colleges and universities joined the two-day retreat.

The students all belong to MEA’s Aspiring Educators of Michigan (AEM) as leaders on their respective campuses and in statewide roles. Because AEM members and leaders cycle through and graduate in a few years, the program continually sends forth future MEA leaders and rebuilds its own bench.

Through team- and energy-building events, activities and trainings, AEM creates incredible opportunities for young people to build their networks and hone their skills.

“Being around like-minded people is inspiring, and I can’t wait for AEM to transform the school year,” said Alyssa Stevenson, AEM secretary, who attends Central Michigan University.

Retreat participants were greeted by MEA President Chandra Madafferi and Vice President Brett Smith. They heard from Doug Pratt, director of Communications and Public Relations, of educators’ power in joining together. For example, AEM activism helped to secure student teaching stipends in the state budget.

At the retreat AEM leaders learned about themselves as leaders, the structure of the AEM program and how it fits into the larger structure of MEA and NEA, and the four pillars of AEM (educator excellence, social justice, political action, and community engagement). They built connections through games.

Time was also set aside for chapters to plan activities and events.

Zoe Howard, president of the Saginaw Valley State University chapter, is partnering with other student organizations to create a Voter Information Night for members to engage with NEA’s EdActivist app and League of Women Voter resources to ensure they are educated, empowered and motivated to vote.

AEM President Aryana Jharia from Eastern Michigan University said she became engaged with politics after seeing it can be a tool for solving disparities and inequities in the education system. Jharia recently was elected as a local precinct delegate to get more involved at the grassroots level.

“I’m eager to learn more, especially so I can share more about how young people can get involved with creating systemic change through political action,” Jharia said.

Kenzie Atkins, AEM vice president, said the retreat brought together leaders from across the state who bonded together with openness. Atkins formed the AEM chapter at Grand Valley State University two years ago and rose to a statewide elected position in that short time.

“My journey exemplifies the growth and leadership potential nurtured in spaces like these,” Atkins said. “This retreat wasn’t just about learning; it was about cultivating a network of passionate, forward-thinking educators who will continue to lead and inspire for years to come.”