60 Facts About Michelle Obama

Early Life and Education

Michelle Obama, born Michelle LaVaughn Robinson, has a fascinating background that shaped her into the influential figure she is today.

1. Michelle was born on January 17, 1964, in Chicago, Illinois.
2. She grew up in the South Shore community area of Chicago.
3. Her father, Fraser Robinson III, worked as a city water plant employee.
4. Her mother, Marian Shields Robinson, was a full-time homemaker.
5. Michelle skipped the second grade due to her exceptional academic performance.
6. She attended Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, Chicago’s first magnet high school.
7. Michelle graduated as the salutatorian of her high school class in 1981.
8. She went on to study sociology and African-American studies at Princeton University.
9. Michelle graduated cum laude from Princeton in 1985.
10. She earned her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Harvard Law School in 1988.

Career Before the White House

Before becoming the First Lady, Michelle had an impressive career in law and public service.

11. Michelle worked at the Chicago law firm Sidley Austin, where she met Barack Obama.
12. She served as an assistant to the Mayor of Chicago, Richard M. Daley.
13. Michelle also worked as the Assistant Commissioner of Planning and Development in Chicago.
14. She was the founding executive director of the Chicago chapter of Public Allies, a nonprofit organization.
15. Michelle worked as the Associate Dean of Student Services at the University of Chicago.
16. She later became the Vice President for Community and External Affairs at the University of Chicago Medical Center.
17. Michelle continued to work at the University of Chicago Medical Center during Barack’s 2008 presidential campaign.
18. She was a board member of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs.
19. Michelle also served on the board of directors for the Chicago Public Library.
20. She was a member of the board of directors for TreeHouse Foods, Inc.

Life as First Lady

Michelle Obama redefined the role of the First Lady with her initiatives and public presence.

21. Michelle became the First Lady of the United States on January 20, 2009.
22. She launched the "Let’s Move!" campaign to combat childhood obesity.
23. Michelle started the "Joining Forces" initiative to support military families.
24. She initiated the "Reach Higher" program to encourage higher education.
25. Michelle also launched the "Let Girls Learn" initiative to promote education for girls worldwide.
26. She planted the White House Kitchen Garden to promote healthy eating.
27. Michelle was the first African-American First Lady in U.S. history.
28. She delivered a memorable speech at the 2016 Democratic National Convention.
29. Michelle hosted numerous state dinners and events at the White House.
30. She became a fashion icon, known for her elegant and accessible style.

Post-White House Activities

After leaving the White House, Michelle continued to influence and inspire through various endeavors.

31. Michelle published her memoir, "Becoming," in 2018.
32. "Becoming" became one of the best-selling memoirs of all time.
33. She launched the "Becoming" book tour, which sold out arenas worldwide.
34. Michelle and Barack signed a multi-year deal with Netflix to produce content.
35. She started the "When We All Vote" initiative to increase voter participation.
36. Michelle launched the "Girls Opportunity Alliance" to support adolescent girls’ education.
37. She received the Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album for "Becoming."
38. Michelle was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people multiple times.
39. She continues to advocate for healthy eating and physical activity.
40. Michelle remains a sought-after public speaker and advocate for various causes.

Personal Life and Interests

Michelle’s personal life and interests reveal a multifaceted individual with a passion for family, fitness, and culture.

41. Michelle married Barack Obama on October 3, 1992.
42. They have two daughters, Malia and Sasha.
43. Michelle is known for her love of fitness and often worked out with friends.
44. She enjoys playing tennis and practicing yoga.
45. Michelle is an avid reader and often shares her book recommendations.
46. She loves Motown music and has a deep appreciation for the arts.
47. Michelle has a close-knit group of friends from her Chicago days.
48. She is a fan of the TV show "Black-ish."
49. Michelle enjoys cooking and often prepared meals for her family.
50. She has a passion for mentoring young women and girls.

Awards and Recognition

Michelle Obama has received numerous awards and recognition for her work and influence.

51. Michelle was awarded the Harvard Law School’s Alumna Award.
52. She received the Princeton University’s James Madison Award for Distinguished Public Service.
53. Michelle was honored with the Glamour Woman of the Year Award.
54. She received the BET Humanitarian Award.
55. Michelle was named one of Forbes’ World’s 100 Most Powerful Women.
56. She was awarded the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work.
57. Michelle received the Children’s Defense Fund’s Children’s Champion Award.
58. She was honored with the National Civil Rights Museum’s Freedom Award.
59. Michelle was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World.
60. She received the Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album for "Becoming."

Michelle Obama's Lasting Impact

Michelle Obama’s influence extends far beyond her role as First Lady. Her advocacy for education, health, and military families has left a lasting mark. Through initiatives like Let’s Move!, she tackled childhood obesity, promoting healthier lifestyles. Her Reach Higher campaign encouraged students to pursue higher education, emphasizing its importance for future success.

Michelle’s memoir, "Becoming," became a bestseller, inspiring millions with her story of resilience and determination. Her work with the Obama Foundation continues to empower young leaders worldwide.

From her fashion choices to her public speeches, Michelle Obama remains a role model for many. Her dedication to public service and community engagement showcases her commitment to making a difference. Michelle Obama’s legacy is one of compassion, strength, and inspiration. Her journey reminds us all of the power of hope and hard work.