Micheal will support furthering and maintaining the WAE mission and vision through legislative advocacy, strategic communication development and fundraising efforts.
Michael comes to WAE as a former Democratic Congressional Candidate, national award winner, experienced public relations expert, and two Masters in Strategic Communication and Public Administration from National University. Michael is married and has two incredible pups! Michael ran for United States Congress (MS-03) in 2018. His crusade was centered on equality, opportunity, and moving Mississippi forward. Michael’s campaign team made history, as he was the first openly gay man to run for a federal seat in his state’s history. Throughout Michael’s life he has been exposed to different cultures, experiences, and beliefs. Michael believes that the words “all men are created equal” have never been more important than they are today. Michael served with the Newton Police Department as a Police Officer, Investigator, Administrative Director from 2008-2020. While, in the United States Navy he served as an Anti-Terrorism Specialist until he was diagnosed with cancer. This diagnosis would remove him from his Anti-Terrorism role and placed him on the support staff of the Command Triad. Michael possesses Bachelors in American History with a concentration in Warfare and Strategy, a Master’s in Strategic Communication and a Masters in Public Administration & Human Resource Management (MPA.) During his tenure in the United States Navy, Michael was an active member of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program, fulfilling the role of Coordinator and Command Liaison for duration of time. Michael was recognized by (then) Rear Admiral Jackson, Commander Navy Region Southeast, for his innovation and leadership while stationed at Naval Station Mayport. Michael’s investigative background provided essential support for the program and the implementation of new policies regarding Military Sexual Assault Trauma. Also, while stationed at Naval Station Mayport, Michael was instrumental in the implementation of Transgender Integration Training for the command and assisted in the writing of “by laws” for station GLASS (Gay Lesbian and Supporting Sailors) Chapter.
