Michelle Nielson
Michelle Nielson is a seasoned nonprofit strategist with extensive experience in health, wellness, education, and medical sectors. Currently serving as Grants Specialist at Lyrasis, she provides strategic direction for the Catalyst Fund program, ensuring equitable funding and institutional capacity-building across libraries, archives, and museums. As Executive Director of Child Life Disaster Relief, Michelle leads organizational growth, manages budgets, oversees staff, and builds strong partnerships to support children and caregivers during crises. Her work consistently bridges strategic planning, grant management, and program development, demonstrating a commitment to impactful, mission-driven leadership.
Michelle’s career spans over 20 years in nonprofit and healthcare administration. She has held leadership roles including Executive Director at Kaleidoscope: Keweenaw Alternative Education Organization, Regional Coordinator for the CDC Foundation, and Project Director at Rincon. She is recognized for her expertise in fundraising, volunteer engagement, and strategic partnerships, helping small organizations scale their operations and increase community impact. Her achievements include certification as a Six Sigma Black Belt, grant writing and profit management credentials, and recognition in Florida’s “40 Over 40” campaign.
A strong advocate for professional development and mentorship, Michelle holds a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management from Bellevue University. She credits much of her growth to mentors such as Lori Hall and is an active member of the World Wide Women’s Association. Michelle’s career reflects a dedication to strengthening nonprofit organizations, fostering collaboration, and creating sustainable solutions that improve lives across communities.
• Certified Six Sigma Black Belt
• Grant Writing Certification
• Profit Mgmt Certification
• University of Nebraska-Lincoln - M.Ed.
• World Wide Womens Association
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong work ethic and unwavering persistence. I believe that dedication, consistent effort, and the determination to overcome challenges are key factors in achieving meaningful results.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always cultivate connections and prioritize networking. Building meaningful relationships opens doors to opportunities, insights, and collaborations that can significantly impact your career growth.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to remain resilient. Challenges and obstacles are inevitable, but staying determined, adaptable, and confident in your abilities will allow you to navigate them successfully and achieve your goals.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and simultaneously a key opportunity—in my field right now is raising funds. Securing resources requires strategic planning, relationship-building, and innovative approaches, but it also provides the chance to strengthen partnerships, expand impact, and drive meaningful growth.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty, straightforward communication, and being part of a supportive team. I believe that integrity and collaboration are the foundation for building trust, fostering strong relationships, and achieving meaningful results.
Locations
Lyrasis
Port Orange, FL 32128