"I've had the privilege of seeing student parents meet each other and just see that moment of 'Oh my gosh, my story is reflected in you and your story', and that's so fulfilling. Every time that I see it, I'm just like, this is why we started this, this is why we do it.”

This episode of Strength in the Midst of Change features Lyss Shumaker, 2020 LSA alumna and co-founder of the Michigan Caregivers and Student Parent Organization, a CEW+ Student Sponsored Organization focused on creating community among student caregivers through programming and events. Lyss talks about what inspired her to advocate for student parents and the unique challenges that they encounter along their journey. Make sure to listen to the end to hear the advice she would share with her peers about how to create change and her vision for the future of student parents at U-M.

Resiliency is best demonstrated in times of change. Join CEW+ Director Tiffany Marra as she talks to students, staff, faculty, and community members connected to the University of Michigan’s Center for the Education of Women+ (CEW+) in our podcast, Strength in the Midst of Change, to hear personal and professional stories of strength and growth. Through this podcast, CEW+ seeks to create a safe place where you will be inspired by the stories of everyday people.

You can download and subscribe to Strength in the Midst of Change from — Apple Podcasts and SoundCloud. Subscribe, listen, and enjoy!

Resource Links

• Michigan Caregivers and Student Parents
• CEW+ Student Caregiver Initiative
• CEW+ Resources for Student Parents and Caregivers