A proud son of the city that gave birth to basketball and Dr. Seuss (Springfield, Mass.), this Mr. Smith made his way to Washington to create connections, build bridges, and promote innovations that can transform communities in need.

Often known as the resident idealist, Michael sees the silver lining in every cloud and makes the best darn lemonade from lemons you’ll ever taste. Although he’s known for his bright smile and big laugh, he’s also one-half of the take-no-prisoners social innovation vice president duo with his partner in crime Kari Dunn Saratovsky. Michael spends his days at the Case Foundation knocking down barriers to success and making sure the little guy always has a voice.

Michael is proud of his work supporting the CEO on economic development efforts in the Palestinian West Bank and leading the Foundation’s efforts to tap “citizen-centered” approaches to civic engagement, including its new grant program, the Make It Your Own Awards™. Prior to joining the Case Foundation, he spent a decade helping build foundations and national initiatives aimed at bridging the “digital divide,” and held key positions at local and national organizations working to develop enriching communities and empowered youth.

Michael lives in Washington, D.C., but considers himself an adopted son of southeast Texas where he spent three years, learned how to ride western, and developed a deep love for the word “y’all.”