Misti Stanton | Woman of Achievement & Courage Award Honoree
- Year: 2026
- Location: WomanUp and Celebrate West Michigan
Diversity & Inclusion Officer of Mercantile Bank
Misti Stanton is Vice President, Diversity & Inclusion Officer at Mercantile Bank, where she leads efforts to build an inclusive, people-centered workplace within a growing financial institution. With more than 35 years of experience in community and nonprofit work, Stanton has dedicated her career to expanding opportunity through education, mentorship, and workforce development.
Prior to joining Mercantile Bank, Stanton spent more than 25 years with Grand Rapids Public Schools, where she played a key role in advancing student success through literacy and enrichment programs. She helped lead the H.O.S.T.S. (Help One Student To Succeed) initiative, earning national recognition for operating one of the top programs in the country, and launched the Estelle L. Smith Reading Corner — an initiative that expanded to schools across the region. She also served as Program Manager for Schools of Hope through Heart of West Michigan United Way.
At Mercantile Bank, Stanton has developed and led a range of programs designed to strengthen talent pipelines and expand access to career opportunities. She established the bank’s summer internship and high school co-op programs, creating pathways for students to gain real-world experience in banking and business. A committed mentor and community leader, Stanton continues to champion literacy, youth development, and inclusive economic opportunity across West Michigan.
