Michelle serves as the Vice President of Operations and Strategy at Every Mother’s Advocate (ĒMA), where she works at the intersection of vision and execution. As an integrator across departments and a strategic leader alongside ĒMA’s executive team, she oversees the operational systems, financial strategy, and internal infrastructure that help the organization grow responsibly while remaining deeply aligned with its mission.
Michelle brings a unique combination of frontline social work experience and operational leadership to her role. Her career has included direct work with mothers and families experiencing crisis, global nonprofit consulting, and helping organizations expand their reach across countries and communities. This experience gives her a perspective on both the realities families face and the systems required to make sustainable, effective services possible.
Her connection to this work began early. After moving abroad at 19, Michelle immersed herself in a new language and culture and witnessed the remarkable capacity of mothers caring for their children amid difficult circumstances. That experience helped shape the path that followed—from studying social work to serving mothers experiencing homelessness and emergency situations and eventually building expertise in nonprofit strategy and operations. “I’m deeply passionate about motherhood, maternal mental health, sustainable social services practices, and the inherent dignity and worth of every person,” Michelle shares. “Coming to ĒMA is the culmination of years spent pursuing this mission.”
What excites Michelle most about ĒMA’s future is the opportunity to expand its prevention-focused model through Affiliate partners across the country. She believes thoughtful growth is about more than replicating programs; it is about extending a culture in which mothers are treated as whole, capable people worthy of dignity and care. For Michelle, strong operations make that kind of growth possible, creating the foundation for creativity, innovation, and lasting impact.
Outside of work, Michelle loves staying active with her family, whether they’re playing sports, traveling, or heading out on a new adventure. Music is also a big part of family life, and in quieter moments, she enjoys sketching, watercolor painting, long walks, and singing a little too loudly in the car.
Three words to describe Michelle? Outgoing, approachable, and intentional
Favorite coffee order: Regular coffee with a splash of cream!
Favorite self-care ritual: Long walks with great music
Quote she’s living by right now: “Miles to go, but we’re almost home.” Gregory Alan Isakov
