Debra Michaels

Debra Michaels is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in philanthropy and program management. Currently serving as the Director of Effective Philanthropy at the Taproot Foundation, Debra previously worked at Common Impact as a Senior Consultant/Senior Manager, where effective management of corporate social responsibility, DEI, and ESG goals was a focus. Throughout a diverse career, Debra has held leadership roles at various organizations, including VOCEL and Chicago Run, demonstrating a strong track record in fundraising, strategic partnership development, and program optimization. Debra holds an MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, alongside a BA in Psychology and Political Science from Northwestern University.