Michelle Polarek

Michelle Polarek is an accomplished professional with over 15 years of experience in the alumni database industry, currently serving as the PANDA Systems Manager for the Smithsonian Institution since December 2011. In this role, Michelle focuses on the implementation of Ellucian Advance and related software solutions for the institution and its museums. Prior experience includes ownership of MA Polarek, LLC, where comprehensive data implementation services were provided, and roles at Sungard Higher Education, Emory University, Northwestern University, and Loyola University Chicago, each contributing to expertise in database systems and fundraising software. Michelle holds a BBA in Personnel Management from Loyola University Chicago and a BA in Business Administration from Quincy University.