Meet Michelle Marshall-Haren: B2g’s Newest Board Member!
Michelle Marshall-Haren, Better2gether’s newest board member, brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to making a difference. With over 18 years at Allianz Partners in various leadership roles, she currently serves as the Director of Client Delivery.
Two years ago, Allianz Partners in Richmond established the Financial Giving Committee and Michelle was selected to serve. On this committee, Michelle and her colleagues evaluate requests from local non-profit organizations to support community needs. “I am proud to be part of this committee and am dedicated to understanding our community’s needs while aligning requests with our values as a company.”
In addition to Michelle’s meaningful career and her commitment to philanthropy, there’s another passion that has been a big part of her life: music.
“I used to be a professional musician,” Michelle explains, having played for the Richmond Symphony and as a freelance musician. However, an obstacle hindered Michelle’s dream of working as a full-time professional musician.
Since childhood, Michelle has struggled with unexplained health challenges, which included difficulty in exercising, light-headedness, fatigue and unexpected fainting. After consulting multiple medical specialists without a diagnosis, she eventually found a physician who recognized and helps manage her symptoms of Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), a blood circulation disorder.
It was Michelle’s unique medical journey – along with her passion for giving back to others – that led her to Better2gether. “I first learned about Better2gether through its board member, Jimmy Comer,” shares Michelle. “I know he’s been very involved in non-profit work, and I’ve wanted to get involved. I’ve been given a lot in my life, and it’s time to give back. As you get older, these things become more meaningful to you.”
Michelle shares a genuine empathy and connection with Better2gether families and children. Between seeing multiple specialists as a child, not always knowing why symptoms were occurring, managing a chronic illness, and experiencing hospitalizations, Michelle says she understands.
“Of course, I haven’t experienced the same extent of medical challenges as others,” Michelle explains, “But I’ve experienced a piece of it, and I have a heart for our kids and families.”
Better2gether is thrilled to welcome Michelle Marshall-Haren to the board, where her expertise, compassion, and personal experiences promise to make a positive impact.
