Michelle leads change management initiatives for CommonHealth ACTION, helping clients institutionalize their Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) efforts. A master facilitator and expert in leadership development and public health, she supports clients as they reframe their norms and strategic thinking to ensure that EDI is used in all decision-making, and becomes part of the fabric of the organization.

I take action for equity because, as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie says, learning about difference is not about being nice, it’s about being human and practical. When we honor and learn about difference, we learn how to thrive in a diverse world.

Michelle uses personal reflection techniques and strategy development to spark difficult conversations and meaningful action with her clients. With 25 years experience in public health, organizational strategy, training, education and coaching, she has worked on public health initiatives at every level of government, in large businesses, non-profits, academic institutions, and community-based organizations. 

As a faculty member of American University’s Health Studies Department, she has created undergraduate and graduate curricula that helps young people develop vital skills for successful public health careers. Michelle has led and managed staff and programming on a wide variety of topics related to public health, social justice and health equity.

Michelle has earned several facilitation certificates including Leadership Strategies and Group Facilitation, and is an ICF-certified Executive Coach.