Michelle Dunham
Michelle R. Dunham is a seasoned legal counsel and trusted advisor specializing in corporate and regulatory compliance, privacy, cybersecurity, intellectual property, and marketing law. Based in Chicago, she brings extensive experience navigating complex legal landscapes across multiple industries, with a particular expertise in online gaming. Michelle excels at translating intricate legal concepts into practical business strategies, managing cross-functional teams, and guiding organizations through regulatory challenges at local, national, and international levels.
Currently serving as Vice President of Legal Affairs and General Counsel at Four Winds Casinos, Michelle oversees global regulatory compliance, contract negotiations, and risk management for the gaming enterprise. Previously, she held senior legal roles at American Express, Famous Dave’s of America, National Express, and Gallagher Bassett, where she led initiatives in commercial contracts, data privacy, and corporate governance. Throughout her career, Michelle has demonstrated a consistent ability to balance strategic legal guidance with practical business solutions, earning recognition as a subject matter expert and public speaker in the gaming and regulatory space.
A graduate of Western Michigan University (JD) and the University of Oxford, Michelle is a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMLS) and a Certified Global Sanctions Specialist (CGSS). Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is dedicated to mentorship, board service, and advocacy for civil rights and women in law, producing initiatives like the Ladies Ball Too!!! podcast to uphold women’s rights, law, and sports. Michelle’s career reflects a blend of legal acumen, leadership, and commitment to ethical and responsible business practices.
• Certified Global Sanctions Specialist
• Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist
• Western Michigan University- J.D.
• University of Oxford
• University of Toronto
• Southern University and Agricultural and Mechanical College at Baton Rouge
• 50 Women To Watch
• Orchid Award Recepient (Unsung Heroes)
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
• Breakthrough
• Legal Prep Charter Academy
• Life After Sports™, LLC
• Corporate Counsel Women of Color Entrepreneurs
• WISE Chicago (Women in Sports & Events - Chicago Chapter)
• Black Sports Professionals
• XVISORY
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to gaining international experience, like studying abroad in Taranto, which helped me understand different perspectives globally, and to my dedication to integrating iGaming and sports betting into my work while mentoring and empowering young women through sports and education.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to take up space, think outside the box, and never limit yourself—there are so many opportunities within law waiting to be explored.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are empowering young minds to be confident and helping them recognize that they too deserve a seat at the table.