Michele Walsh

Michele is a social impact leader with multi-disciplinary expertise, and the strategic vision to foster comprehensive change for women, adolescent girls, and children. As Executive Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer at UNICEF USA, she serves as a principal advisor to the CEO and leads the philanthropy team which is set to deliver $1B of impact value for children annually.

Throughout her 15-year tenure at UNICEF USA, Michele has been a driving force behind initiatives that have reshaped the organization, and mobilized hundreds of millions of philanthropic dollars. Her ability to develop critical alliances and partnerships while navigating an unprecedented political environment, has been instrumental in ensuring federal advocacy remains constant in its commitment to children’s welfare. Moreover, Michele’s efforts in leveraging data tools and technology, including the exploration of generative AI, have propelled the organization towards enhanced operational efficiency and expanded capabilities.

Michele’s career is rooted in addressing inequality and the protection of children. Early on, she applied her skills as a social worker in the foster care system transitioning to early intervention and then leading several youth programs. She also served in several Director of Development roles including at the Urban Justice Center where she catalyzed resources to support legal services and advocacy.

Michele earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and Urban Planning from Washington University in St. Louis. She loves thought-provoking conversations, data and analytics, and dancing with her partner and three daughters in their family home in Brooklyn, NY.