Staff: Megan Kursik, Research Assistant
Megan Kursik is a LISC AmeriCorps member serving as the Coalition Coordinator for the Michigan Asset Building Policy Project (ABPP) at CEDAM. Megan works with communities across the state to implement initiatives that focus on increasing access to programs and products that help people to build savings and wealth, get post-secondary education or training, start a small business, or prepare for homeownership.
Before becoming the Coalition Coordinator, Megan served as the Research Assistant to the ABPP after completing a summer internship with CEDAM. Prior to her work with CEDAM, Megan interned for the Flint-based nonprofit Flint’s Future Now (FFN) as the Research and Program Coordinator where she conducted research on Flint’s economic landscape to develop policy recommendations and provided outreach to the Flint community on the findings. Her particular areas of interest include addressing social inequalities through community-based policy and programs, specifically in terms of wealth and asset holding, health, and education. Megan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Relations and Policy, specializing in Science, Technology, Environment and Public Policy and Political Economy from James Madison College at Michigan State University. While at MSU, Megan competed for the Varsity Women’s Rowing Team, winning two Big Ten Championship titles and earning Academic All-Big Ten and Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association National Scholar Athlete honors for three years.
Q&A with Megan:
What drives your passion for neighborhood/community and economic development?
Growing up in a small town I was exposed to the benefits of knowing my neighbors and the sense of belonging that comes with attachment to a community. Strengthening relationships between people and their communities can unlock a wealth of social capital.
Why do you love Michigan?
Michigan is unique from its beautiful natural spaces to the entrepreneurial ethic of its residents. I’ve lived here my whole life and believe that if we reconnect with our communities and reignite the entrepreneurial drive Michiganders had at the beginning of the 20th century, Michigan residents can rebound from our current economic woes. Plus, this is the only place where I can get away with listening to Marvin Gaye and John Cougar Mellencamp on the same playlist.
How do your family and/or community inspire your work?
My parents are greatly involved in my community and I look to them for inspiration because I have seen the impact their work has on the entire community.
What do you do in your free time (if it exists!)?
As a student-athlete I spend my time doing five things: eat, sleep, practice, homework, internship. But occasionally I get the chance to attend other MSU sporting events, hang out with friends, or visit my family.