Her Story
About Michelle
Michelle Olivieri serves as Director of Graduate Medical Education and Residency Administration at the Greater Lawrence Family Health Center’s Lawrence Family Medicine Residency program. Her career with the health center actually began in 1999 while she was still in high school, when she started as a medical secretary before finding her true calling in residency administration through a research-focused role. Over the course of nearly two decades in the residency program, Michelle has progressed from Research Coordinator to now leading the administration and operations of this innovative family medicine residency program and addiction medicine fellowship program which provide primary care in an underserved community. In her role, she ensures the administration of the sponsoring institution, residency and fellowship programs operate effectively and that residents and fellows fulfill the requirements necessary for graduation and successful advancement in their medical careers. Michelle is also deeply engaged in the broader field of family medicine administration through her involvement with the Association of Family Medicine Administration, where she serves on the Board of Directors and has assumed the role of 2026-2027 President. Her leadership reflects a commitment to strengthening graduate medical education and supporting the professionals who help train the next generation of physicians. She attributes much of her success to the encouragement and support of her family, including her husband of 22 years and their two adult children, as well as the guidance of mentors whose influence has helped shape her professional journey. For young professionals entering the field, Michelle emphasizes the importance of patience, continuous learning, seeking support and developing a network, and recognizing the value of the work they do. She encourages individuals to give themselves time to understand their roles, develop their expertise, and grow with confidence. Her career reflects the impact of perseverance, strong mentorship, family support, and a deep commitment to advancing medical education and healthcare in underserved communities.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Michelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I am only as strong as the team that stands by me and supports me. I have an amazing administrative team that is competent, highly functioning, and an absolute dream to work with. I am so proud of this brilliant group of women that have grown into their roles and own their crafts. I don’t know where I would be without them.
I would not be able to pursue my goals and aspirations without the unwavering support of my family, particularly my high school sweetheart who I’ve been married to for over 22 years and our two children who have grown into amazing adults. Their encouragement and understanding have been instrumental in helping me navigate the demands and responsibilities of home life, my career, and national commitments. Having that strong support system has given me the foundation, perspective, and motivation to continue growing and striving for excellence, both professionally and personally.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received has come from several mentors that have been my leaders and peers over the years, and previous presidents and current and past board members of the Association of Family Medicine Administration. Their encouragement inspired me to pursue opportunities beyond my immediate role, including presenting at national conferences, serving on the board, and mentoring others. Their guidance taught me the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone, embracing leadership opportunities, and giving back by supporting the professional growth of others.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the field is to be patient and give themselves time to learn, grow, and develop their expertise. Success does not happen overnight, so it is important to trust the process and remain committed to the work. Find a mentor and absorb as much information as you can. Take advantage of every opportunity that creates itself, or that you decide to create: sign up for workshops and trainings, join associations to develop a network. Most importantly, believe in what you do and recognize the value of your contributions.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field include the high levels of stress needing to keep abreast and implement institutional and program requirement changes, managing numerous deadlines and the day-to-day complexity of learners’ schedules and operations management. At the same time, these challenges create opportunities to strengthen systems, improve efficiency, support staff and residents more effectively, and develop innovative approaches to graduate medical education administration.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
When thinking about what I value most, I’ve realized that a positive and growth mindset within my career, balanced with prioritizing time with family and self care have been so instrumental in maintaining my resilience over the years. I travel several times a year for both work and my national commitments, and while I do enjoy my work and my connections with people all over the country, I have truly grown to love and appreciate just being at home and being with my family. Being able to find joy both in work and personal life is essential, and in order to do that, you need to take care of yourself. I prioritize my health and make time for personal interests and hobbies, and I find having that balance gives me the energy I need to make my days so much more productive and enjoyable.
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