Growing up outside of Detroit, Michelle became passionate for finding ways to bring about equitable economic development. She earned her BA in Public Policy from the University of Chicago with a focus on urban development and networks between community organizations. Taking time off during her third year to travel through China, South Asia, and the Middle East, she gained a more global perspective on the inequalities faced by many people worldwide. After graduating, she stayed in the States to serve as a New Sector Alliance resident at a nonprofit in the Bay Area supporting small business owners and evaluating public and private policies that direct capital into low-income communities. She also worked as a research consultant advising a natural resource firm on their tactics for sustainable community development in emerging economies. Michelle is looking forward to going abroad again and getting first-hand experience with the role microfinance can play in generating social justice in rural India. An avid traveler and backpacker, she loves to be outside. She can be found running, hiking, camping, or reading when she finds the time.