Michele is a Program Officer at GMA. An equity-focused leader in non-profit and educational institutions, Michele has developed and implemented strategic initiatives, programs, community partnerships, program evaluation, and organizational change strategies to advance mission and impact. Her work has also centered on equitable opportunities and access to arts education.

Michele holds an executive doctorate in higher education management from the University of Pennsylvania, in which her research focused on culture, change, and equity in higher education. A chapter of her dissertation was presented as a case study at the NADOHE International Conference at Coventry University in Coventry, UK: “An Anti-Racism Implementation Plan: A Case Study; How A Decentralized Liberal Arts College Implemented a New Framework for Change.”

Michele received a Bachelor of Music from The Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College, a Master of Music in Clarinet Performance from The Juilliard School, and an Ed. D in Higher Education Management from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education (PENNGSE).

Michele has performed and taught extensively and is a mentor for emerging leaders and administrators in the arts. She loves spending time outdoors and enjoys hiking, fishing, traveling, reading, cooking, and gardening. Her propensity for learning is immense.