As an impact specialist, Michael leads and supports strategic communications and advocacy efforts related to protecting free expression, the right to dissent, and defending our civic space and the rule of law. This ranges from active litigation to projects seeking to understand and prevent political violence, strengthen faith-based coalition building, and support Gen Z constituency organizing.

Before joining Protect Democracy, Michael built his career at the intersection of communications, state policy, and issue-based advocacy, from working at the Michigan Senate to Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker’s 2022 re-elect, and then leading development communications for the John G. Shedd Aquarium. Michael received his B.A. in Political Science from Michigan State University, and two M.A.’s from Arizona State University.