With a background spanning science, dance, policy, philanthropy, and higher education, Michelle has built her career at Arizona State University designing and fundraising for complex, interdisciplinary research and education initiatives. As an AVP with the ASU Foundation, she directs the Moonshot Accelerator to help build ASU’s boldest ideas, and manages the science philanthropy portfolio, connecting ASU researchers with partners committed to changing the way the world solves problems. She also teaches and writes about science and technology policy as an affiliate of ASU’s Consortium for Science, Policy, and Outcomes. Michelle holds a PhD, Master’s, and BS in biology, with a minor in dance.
Michelle’s love of the arts and movement began early and has been a constant thread throughout her life. She performed in productions from childhood onward, captained her high school dance team and led choreography for her theater department, and continued her formal dance training through college. She has also been a certified yoga and barre instructor for more than 15 years. Today, she channels her creativity through the art of flower arranging, in addition to hobbies spanning Japanese language, golf, and dog training. She is especially proud to support Ballet Arizona as a member of its Contemporary Council and to champion the company as a true gem in the Phoenix arts community.
