As RILA’s program manager and one of our legal advocates, Michele primarily manages SIJ clients, working with families to prepare necessary documentation for state and immigration court. She represents children in immigration court, briefs RILA’s attorneys so they are prepared for state court hearings, and attends hearings with clients.

Michele is a Department of Justice fully accredited representative, and she has a wide range of experience studying child development, researching forensic interview techniques, and serving as the former assistant director at the Mother of Light Center in in Alexandria, VA, where she developed and implemented programs for immigrant single mothers and children.

Like many of her co-workers, Michele is most passionate about ensuring that clients can share their stories and feel heard, loved, and supported. She believes that every client should feel respected, and no one should face the immigration system alone, especially children.