Michele recently embarked on a new chapter as an Administrative Operations Specialist with Papa Ola Lōkahi, starting in August 2023. Before this role, she dedicated over 26 years to Kaiser Permanente. Her work with Papa Ola Lōkahi has been a remarkable journey, allowing her to connect more deeply with her Native Hawaiian heritage and inspiring her to explore the culture further. Born and raised in O'ahu, Michele has strong ties to Kaua'i and loves her memories with her ‘ohana. She’s been married for 30 years and has two kids: a daughter in her senior year at Dartmouth and a son in his senior year at Kamehameha Schools. Their milestones keep her busy, and she’s excited for their graduations next year. She's passionate about photography and videography, particularly enjoying the magic of capturing candid moments. Recently, Michele has also discovered a new love for lei making, which began with the foliage her husband grows in their backyard. The real joy, however, comes from the priceless memories created with her ‘ohana during this fulfilling and therapeutic practice.

ʻŌiwi Breastfeeding Week is observed from August 8–14, 2025. This week is dedicated to celebrating and supporting hānai waiū, breastfeeding. It is a time to honor the joys and challenges that come with hānai waiū, and to uplift the experiences of our ʻohana who choose to and/or can hānai waiū to their keiki.