Kathy Szenda Wilson

Kathy Szenda Wilson has invested more than 30 years in systems building within philanthropy and community development to improve the lives of children and their families. She founded and co-leads Pulse at the WE Upjohn Institute for Employment Research.  Pulse is an early childhood systems change organization dedicated to improving child and family outcomes. In 2020 she was elected as Battle Creek's Ward 4 City Commissioner, where she advocated on behalf of children and families within her district. She is an accomplished facilitator, coach, storyteller, and trainer. Her trademark empathy and ability to synthesize and weave together ideas and experiences help systems, organizations and individuals surface their best ideas and move forward toward their goals.

Certifications & Leadership

Michigan’s Region 8 Child Care Planning Lead (2024)

Battle Creek City (Ward 4) Commissioner (2020-2022)

Battle Creek Human Relations’ Board Chair (2020-present)

Leadership That Works Certified Community Coach

State of Michigan Master Certified ACEs Study Trainer 

Rockwood Leadership Institute Alum 

System Building Facilitator (ABLe Change Framework, Michigan State University) 

Asset-Based Community Development Institute Alum (DePaul University)

Executive Leadership Certification (Harvard University)

Grantmaking School graduate (Council of Foundations) 

Speak It Forward (Board Member 2011-2025)

Grassroots Grantmakers (Board Member 2006-2014)

Calhoun County Population Health Alliance Advisory Board Member