Born in Japan and raised in Hawaii, Michelle has had the honor of studying under directors John Badham (Saturday Night Fever) and Mark Rydell (On Golden Pond) as a Marion Knott Scholar. She studied directing at the American Film Institute where she directed her thesis film “But Seriously, Folks.” Having also graduated from Chapman University with a BFA in film production, Michelle has directed dozens of short films and documentaries that have circulated film festivals, winning awards and acclaim. She was the recipient of Chapman University’s Location Film-making grant, Eastman Kodak Women in Film scholarship, and Panavision’s Filmmaker’s Grant. Michelle moved throughout her childhood. Her diverse background draws her to unique projects. In addition to writing and directing her own films, Michelle teaches film and involves herself in projects she passionately believes in.