For 15 years, Michelle has been committed to collaborative approaches to building just and trauma-informed communities. Whether facilitating dialogues or co-designing programs to support social change, Michelle is known for her ability to engage with authenticity and compassion while maintaining a clear and strategic focus on the big picture. With experience and education in Canada, the United States, Northern Ireland and South Africa, she graduated with a Master’s Degree in Conflict Transformation in 2013. She is Co-Author of The Little Book of Restorative Justice for Sexual Abuse: Hope through Trauma.
Prior to joining the Just Outcomes team, Michelle launched a peace centre at the University of Waterloo that serves as a national hub for organizational leaders, researchers, and entrepreneurs whose work requires navigating complex systems. Leading efforts to catalyze collaboration between these diverse stakeholders, Michelle drew from her expertise in peacebuilding, restorative justice, and social innovation. She has trained hundreds of students and professionals in restorative justice principles and practices. A trained mediator and circle keeper, Michelle is passionate about holding space for connection and healing.
Michelle lives in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario (Canada) with her spouse and two children.