Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama was born on January 17, 1964 in Chicago, Illinois, growing up on the city’s South Side in a modest home with her brother Craig, mother Marian and father Fraser Robinson. From early on, education and personal discipline were emphasized in her family, which helped shape her trajectory toward leadership.

She attended Whitney Young Magnet High School in Chicago, graduated as salutatorian, and went on to Princeton University, earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a concentration in African-American studies in 1985. She then went to Harvard Law School, obtaining her J.D. in 1988. Following law school, Michelle worked at the Chicago law firm Sidley & Austin, where she met Barack Obama in 1989 when he was a summer associate.

Opting to move into public service, she held roles in the Chicago municipal government and later at the University of Chicago’s community relations and hospital external affairs office. In 1992 she married Barack Obama, and the couple later had two daughters, Malia and Sasha.

When Barack Obama was elected President of the United States in 2008, Michelle became the first African American First Lady (serving from 2009–2017). In that role, she launched several major initiatives:

“Let’s Move!”, aimed at combating childhood obesity by improving nutrition in schools and encouraging physical activity.

The White House Kitchen Garden, planted in 2009 on the South Lawn, to promote fresh produce and healthy eating.

“Reach Higher”, an effort encouraging young people to complete education beyond high school.

“Let Girls Learn”, which focused on adolescent girls’ education globally.

“Joining Forces”, in partnership with Dr. Jill Biden, supporting military families and veterans.

After her time in the White House, Michelle Obama continued her public work through authorship and media. Her memoir Becoming (2018) became a bestseller. She co-founded the production company Higher Ground with Barack Obama, producing media focused on storytelling and social impact.

Michelle Obama’s journey, from a child on Chicago’s South Side to the first Black First Lady of the United States, reflects her belief in opportunity, education, and service. Her work continues to resonate broadly, especially among women and young people of color seeking leadership and change.