Michelle has dedicated her career to community and economic development in her hometown of Philadelphia. For almost six years, she served as Director of Keep Philadelphia Beautiful (KPB), a nonprofit organization dedicated to community building through community greening. Prior to that role, she served as the Commercial Corridor Manager and Communications Director for the Frankford Community Development Corporation, where she primarily worked to assist small businesses along the Frankford Avenue commercial corridor and attract new ones to the area. Michelle holds a B.A. in Political Science from Brandeis University and a Masters Degree in Public Policy from Drexel. She served on the Board of Young Involved Philadelphia as Outreach Chair from 2014-2015, and as Vice President in 2016. From 2017-2020, she served on the Mayor’s Millennial Advisory Committee, first as Communications Chair and then on the Executive Committee as Secretary. Michelle has been named a Connector and Keeper by LEADERSHIP Philadelphia, and to Billy Penn “Who’s Next: Community Leaders” list. As Michelle has said: “I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the East Falls Development Corporation. I have seen firsthand how Community Development Corporations bring neighbors and businesses together to build our civic fabric, and make a tangible difference in the lives of our fellow Philadelphians. This work is more important than ever – and CDCs are uniquely positioned to help build our communities and make sure they are stronger and healthier than ever. On a personal note, as a native Philadelphian I know how special East Falls is, from its businesses to its parks and rich history – and of course its people. I also know that opportunity abounds to build upon the many strengths and assets of the East Falls community.”