Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama (born January 17, 1964) is an American attorney, author, and former First Lady of the United States. She served as First Lady from 2009 to 2017 during the presidency of her husband, Barack Obama, becoming the first African American woman to hold the position.
Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Michelle Obama graduated from Princeton University (sociology major with a minor in African-American studies) and Harvard Law School. She began her career at the law firm Sidley Austin, where she met Barack Obama. She later worked in Chicago city government, as Executive Director of Public Allies, and held senior roles at the University of Chicago, including Vice President for Community and External Affairs at the University of Chicago Medical Center.
As First Lady, she launched major initiatives including Let’s Move! (combating childhood obesity), Joining Forces (supporting military families), Reach Higher (promoting higher education), and Let Girls Learn (advocating for girls’ education globally). She is the author of several bestselling books, most notably her memoir Becoming (2018) and The Light We Carry (2022).
After leaving the White House, Michelle Obama has remained highly influential through public speaking, media projects, and continued advocacy for education, health, and voter participation. She is widely admired for her grace, authenticity, and commitment to public service.
Michelle Obama continues to connect directly with audiences through her popular podcast “IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson” (part of the Higher Ground production company she co-founded with Barack Obama in 2018), where she and her brother offer candid advice on life’s everyday and existential challenges, further cementing her role as a trusted voice of wisdom and relatability.
Official Links:
- Official Website: barackobama.com (Office of Barack and Michelle Obama)
- Obama Foundation: obama.org
- Instagram: @michelleobama
- X (Twitter): @MichelleObama
- Facebook: @michelleobama
- YouTube: @michelleobama
