Kristian Grant | Women to Watch Honoree

- Year: 2025
- Location: WomanUp and Celebrate West Michigan
Michigan State Representative for Grand Rapids’ 82nd District
Women to Watch Honoree
State Rep. Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids) is a dedicated public servant, community advocate, entrepreneur, and proud mother, born and raised in the 82nd District of Michigan, where she now serves as State Representative. Since January 2023, Kristian has represented her constituents with a steadfast commitment to creating better opportunities for all, focusing on the three pillars she believes are essential to building stable, thriving communities: housing, economic development, and education.
Before her time in the legislature, Kristian invested in the rehabilitation of real estate in urban cores, focusing on transforming properties to better serve the community. Her entrepreneurial spirit has led her to thrive in both the retail and service industries, where she successfully built businesses that reflect her passion for fostering local economic growth and innovation.
Kristian’s career in public service began when she became the youngest person ever elected to the Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education. She served six years, including two as board chair, and was instrumental in leading strategic planning efforts, shaping policies to benefit students, and forging partnerships between the city and the district. Her commitment to equitable development and education is further evident in her roles on local boards, including the Grand Rapids Master Plan Committee, Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority, Promise Zone Authority, Convention Arena Authority CIG, SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority, and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc.