Michelle Benson

Michelle Benson has a diverse work experience spanning various roles in marketing and communication. Michelle is currently serving as Vice President of Marketing at YMCA of the North, where they focus on promoting diversity and inclusivity. Prior to this, they held positions such as Adjunct Professor at St. Catherine University, President and CEO at M Group Worldwide, Inc., and Vice President of Marketing and Communication at The Minneapolis Foundation. Michelle has also worked in marketing and communication roles at College Possible, Minnesota State Zoo, Chicago Park District, ColorComm, LLC, Chicago Urban League, and University of Illinois at Chicago. Throughout their career, Michelle has demonstrated expertise in strategic marketing, event management, and community engagement.

Michelle Benson earned a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice Science from Illinois State University in 1997. Michelle went on to pursue a Master's degree in Integrated Marketing Communication from Roosevelt University, which they completed in 2006. In 2008, they obtained a certification as a Certified Woman Business Owner from WBDC, specializing in Business Administration and Management. Michelle Benson has also obtained several additional certifications, including the Distinguished Communicator Honoree from Diversity Action Alliance, the Women of Color Leadership Program from Harvard Business School, The Allstate Foundation Executive Leadership Program from Kellogg Executive Education, and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace Certificate from USF Corporate Training and Professional Education.