Michele Wise Wright’s journey is deeply rooted in the history of Tuskegee, Alabama, where she was born amidst the shadows of the infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Study. This dark chapter in medical history, which saw the exploitation of Black men for research purposes without their consent, profoundly influenced Michele’s lifelong dedication to dismantling barriers and advocating for health equity among marginalized communities.
Driven by a desire to effect meaningful change for present and future generations, Michele wears many hats in her pursuit of health equality. From her roles as an entrepreneur, business executive, engineer, writer, director, and producer, to her pivotal position as an advocate and problem solver, Michele’s diverse skill set equips her to tackle multifaceted challenges head-on.
Michele’s educational journey, which began with a degree in electrical engineering from Tuskegee University, led her to become the first African American full-time student to earn a Master of Science in Engineering Management and Industrial Engineering from the University of Tennessee Space Institute. Her professional trajectory eventually brought her to Arkansas, where she found her calling in the public policy program at the University of Arkansas.
At the U of A, Michele honed her focus on health and leadership, engaging in various healthcare and community development initiatives. The interdisciplinary nature of the program laid the groundwork for Michele’s holistic approach to health equity, bridging the private and nonprofit sectors to address systemic disparities. Her accomplishments include developing a screening tool for cystic fibrosis in people of color, organizing a BIPOC rare disease conference, and founding educational platforms such as My Water Buddy and My Learning Buddy.
Michele’s commitment to advocacy extends beyond her professional endeavors, as evidenced by her involvement in numerous health-related nonprofit organizations. She spearheads initiatives to raise awareness about cystic fibrosis and rare diseases, drawing from her personal experience with her husband’s late diagnosis of cystic fibrosis at the age of 54. Michele’s legislative efforts, such as drafting Terry Wright’s Law, underscore her determination to effect systemic change and improve healthcare access for all.
In addition to her advocacy work, Michele is a sought-after speaker at conferences and events nationwide, where she shares her expertise on health equity and community empowerment. Her accolades, including the USA Today Woman of the Year for Arkansas and the AARP Purpose Prize Fellow, reflect the impact of her tireless advocacy efforts.
As Michele continues to make strides in her career, she remains grateful for the support of her academic mentors and peers at the U of A, whose guidance has been instrumental in her success. Her ultimate goal remains steadfast: to create a world where equitable healthcare is not a privilege but a fundamental right for all.
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