Shirley Stancato is known for her leadership in Detroit and enduring commitment to
social justice. She talks with Denise about the New Detroit coalition, race relations, and
dealing with adversity. “Having conversations about race helps leaders in their
organizations”. Top down, leaders and educators must set standards for interaction and
rules of engagement. For an honest and productive discussion we need a no fault
environment and a focus on the issue rather than an individual. She also poignantly
reminds us that even if you are alone in your opinion, it doesn’t mean that you are
wrong. Shirley shares personal stories of growing up and having responsibilities of an
adult while still a child herself. Tune in to hear about empathy, ethical decision-making,
inclusivity, and a vision for positive change.

Shirley Stancato is a seasoned executive, a prominent civic leader, expert on race
relations and social justice advocate. She serves on the Board of Governors for Wayne
State University as well as on the boards of Fifth Third Bank of Eastern Michigan, Teach
for America Detroit, The Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the Detroit Zoological
Commission. She received her Bachelors and Masters degrees from Wayne State
University. In 2017, she received an honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of
Michigan. Stancato's recent honors include the Champion of Justice Award from the
Michigan Delegation of the Congressional Black Caucus, and City Year Detroit's Idealist
in Action Award. Additionally, she has been recognized as a Woman of Achievement by
the Anti-Defamation League, Regional Power Broker by Crain's Detroit Business and
Michiganian of the Year by The Detroit News.

Denise Ilitch, an owner of Ilitch Family Companies and President of Ilitch Enterprises,
has been a part of Detroit’s business and philanthropic community for over 40 years.
As a mother, lawyer, entrepreneur, devoted community servant and tireless advocate
for women and children, she learned early, from her father, that everyone is worthy of
contributing to the world. Her passion for affordable, accessible, quality education
stems from her own experience as a first-generation student, earning a bachelor’s
degree from the University of Michigan, where she currently serves on the Board of
Regents, and a law degree from the University of Detroit Law School. FOLLOW
DENISE @thedeniseilitchshow