News

The Spring 2025 Thinkers and Doers event, hosted by the MSU Center for Community and Economic Development, brought together community members, educators, and economic development leaders to discuss Eastside child care and early childhood development in Lansing. Held at the MSU CCED office, the event focused on the opening of a new Child Development Laboratory on Michigan Avenue and its potential impact on families and early learning access in the Eastside community.

Panelists Emma Bostwick, Vice President of Business Attraction at the Lansing Economic Area Partnership, and Laurie Linscott, Director of the Child Development Laboratories in MSU’s Department of Human Development and Family Studies, shared insights on community-centered economic development, inclusive early childhood education, and cross-sector collaboration. The discussion highlighted the work of the Capital Area Child Care Coalition and ongoing efforts to support data collection, technical assistance, outreach, and education across the region.

The event provided space for meaningful dialogue, audience questions, and collaboration among stakeholders committed to strengthening early childhood systems and supporting families in Eastside Lansing.