Michelle has been President & CEO of the Canton Symphony Orchestra since 2011. Previously serving in all capacities of the organization as chorus member and volunteer, board trustee and staff, she continues to be a driving force behind the increasing notoriety of the Canton Symphony. Under her leadership, the Canton Symphony has brought in guest artists including Grammy-Award winners Bela Fleck and Sylvia McNair, and has collaborated with numerous organizations including the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, Canton Museum of Art, Massillon Museum of Art, Stark Parks, and the Dancing Wheels.
Michelle joined the Rotary Club of Canton in October 2011 as a way to meet people in the community. She loved the fellowship of the group and quickly became involved.
Michelle has served her club as Secretary, President Elect, and President in 2018-19. She has served as a Board Trustee and has chaired the Oktoberfest and Pack the Bus committees.
Michelle holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music History and Theory from Hiram College and an MBA in Leadership from Southern New Hampshire University. She received a Fundraising Certificate from Boston University (2020) and a Negotiations & Leadership Certificate from Harvard University (2021).She also serves on the board of The Friends of the Summit (91.3 FM) where she is Board Chair. She was a member of the 27th Class of Leadership Stark County, and is currently a member of Woman’s Impact, Inc. In 2012, she was honored to be named one of the Twenty Under 40 and in 2018 was inducted to the YWCA of Stark County’s Women’s Hall of Fame.
Michelle and her husband JC (also a Rotarian) got married right before the pandemic which gave them what she calls “the world’s longest honeymoon”. Together they have six sons (three each) ranging in age from 14 to 25, and one crazy golden retriever named Bea. In her “spare” time, she and her husband JC enjoy hiking, and traveling.
Michelle is thrilled to be sharing her passion for Rotary with all of you and is looking forward to serving under the first female Rotary International President.