January 15, 2026
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Michelle reflects on her leadership journey and the defining moments that have shaped HSC’s approach to collective power—including the landmark 6,000-person #JustPay rally—and what it takes to responsibly steward a movement bigger than any one institution. She shares how those early decisions continue to inform how HSC organizes, advocates, and shows up for providers, workers, and communities today.
The conversation also takes on the current realities facing the human services sector: workforce shortages, compensation challenges, and long-term sustainability, all unfolding amid a transition to a new city administration and shifting state dynamics. Michelle speaks about the weight of coalition leadership—what feels most urgent, what keeps her up at night, and what continues to motivate her work.
Looking ahead, Michelle outlines where the sector needs to go next and how HSC helps chart that path, balancing advocacy, partnership, and accountability while translating shared vision into real action.
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