Before joining the Shedd team, Michelle worked closely with scientists worldwide to develop volunteerbased research expeditions for the international nonprofit, Earthwatch Institute. While with Earthwatch, she traveled to Africa, the Caribbean, and Mexico to assist with field research on community health, Leatherback sea turtles, and whale sharks, respectively. Michelle also spent time with Walt Disney Worlds Animal Kingdom, New England Aquarium, and Museum of ScienceBoston as a conservation educator. Before embarking on her career, Michelle graduated with honors from the University of WisconsinMadison with a degree in Conservation.