Community Philanthropist

Michele has called Colorado Springs home for most of her adult life after growing up in Iowa. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and an MBA from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. Michele retired from a successful career as an executive with Progressive Auto Insurance, where she developed extensive experience in leadership, strategy, and organizational management.

In retirement, Michele has dedicated her time to community philanthropy, with a focus on supporting children, families, and equitable opportunities across the Pikes Peak region. She and her husband, Jordan, established a Donor Advised Fund through the Pikes Peak Community Foundation with a vision of creating a vibrant Colorado Springs community where all children have opportunities to succeed, the arts flourish, and fairness is accessible to all.

Michele’s commitment to supporting children is deeply personal. She served for 10 years as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), advocating for children in foster care and gaining firsthand insight into the challenges they face. She brings a strategic perspective, deep community investment, and a passion for improving outcomes for children and families to Fostering Hope. She has served on the Fostering Hope Local Board since 2020 and continues on the inaugural Colorado Springs Board, providing valuable continuity and leadership.

Michele is also actively involved in the community, serving on the Atlas Schools Foundation Board and as a Trustee for the CU Foundation.

She enjoys hiking, bike riding, outdoor photography, spending time in the mountains, and attending theater and music performances.