Michele has worked in clinical research for almost 20 years with the bulk of her career having been spent at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Prior to joining Dr. Jay Ford’s research group, Michele worked for a non-profit medical research organization in Madison as a clinical operations manager. For approximately 15 years Michele worked for UW as a research specialist and research program manager in various medical divisions. She was responsible for all aspects of conducting and managing clinical research studies. Prior to that, she was a Cancer Information Specialist/Counselor at the UW Comprehensive Cancer Center, funded by the National Cancer Institute. Before moving back to Wisconsin, Michele was a Counselor/Research Specialist at Denver Public Health, where she focused on HIV prevention. Earlier in her career, she was a social worker and worked at a shelter for women and families escaping domestic violence. 

Michele received a B.A. in Social Work and Sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and an M.A. in Conflict Resolution/ International Studies from the University of Denver.

Outside of work, Michele thoroughly enjoys being in nature and she is happiest when near water or in the mountains. When free time presents itself, she enjoys volunteering, traveling, reading, meditating, exercising and mostly spending time with her family, who make her laugh on a daily basis.