Michelle Obama, born Michelle LaVaughn Robinson, is a remarkable woman who has left an indelible mark on American history. From her humble beginnings on Chicago’s South Side to her role as the first African American First Lady of the United States, Michelle’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to public service. Her story inspires millions worldwide and continues to shape conversations on education, health, and equality.
Who is Michelle Obama?
Michelle Obama is a lawyer, writer, and former First Lady of the United States. She was born on January 17, 1964, in Chicago, Illinois, and grew up in a tight-knit family that valued education and hard work.
Michelle’s early life laid the foundation for her future success, as she excelled in school and attended prestigious universities. Her experiences as a working mother, community leader, and advocate for various causes have made her a role model for people of all ages and backgrounds.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michelle LaVaughn Robinson |
| Date of Birth | January 17, 1964 |
| Place of Birth | Chicago, Illinois |
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) |
| Age (2024) | 60 years old |
Age and Physique
Michelle Obama was born in 1964, making her 60 years old as of 2024. She stands 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) tall, above average for American women. Michelle is known for her toned arms and athletic build, which she maintains through regular exercise and a healthy diet. Her commitment to fitness has inspired many to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Personal Life and Relationships
Michelle met her future husband, Barack Obama while working at the law firm Sidley Austin in Chicago. At first, she was his mentor, but their relationship soon blossomed into romance. They got married on October 3, 1992, and have two daughters: Malia Ann (born 1998) and Natasha “Sasha” (born 2001).
Family has always been Michelle’s top priority. She’s known for her close relationship with her mother, Marian Robinson, who even lived in the White House during the Obama presidency to help care for Malia and Sasha. Michelle’s father, Fraser Robinson III, passed away in 1991, but his influence on her life remains strong.
The Obamas have faced the challenges of balancing their high-profile careers with family life. Michelle has often spoken about the importance of making time for family dinners and creating a sense of normalcy for their children, even while living in the White House.
Net Worth and Salary
Michelle Obama and her husband have a combined net worth of about $70 million. This wealth comes from various sources, including book deals, speaking engagements, and production contracts. Michelle’s memoir, “Becoming,” was a massive success, selling millions of copies worldwide and contributing significantly to their net worth.
While serving as First Lady, Michelle didn’t receive a salary, as it was unpaid. However, since leaving the White House, she has earned substantial income from book sales, public speaking, and other ventures. In 2017, the Obamas signed a joint book deal worth a reported $65 million, which included Michelle’s memoir and Barack’s presidential memoir.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Combined Net Worth | $70 million |
| Major Income Sources | Book deals, speaking engagements, production contracts |
| Notable Book | “Becoming” (massive success) |
| Book Deal (2017) | $65 million joint agreement with Barack Obama |
Company Details and Investments
After leaving the White House, Michelle and Obama founded the Obama Foundation, a nonprofit organization that inspires and empowers people to change their world. The foundation works on various initiatives, including the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago.
In 2018, the Obamas signed a multi-year production deal with Netflix to produce various content, including documentaries, series, and feature films. They formed their production company, Higher Ground Productions, to handle these projects.
As for real estate investments, the Obamas own several properties. After leaving the White House, they purchased an $8.1 million home in Washington, D.C.. In 2019, they bought a $11.75 million mansion on Martha’s Vineyard, which sits on 29 oceanfront acres. These real estate investments have contributed to their overall wealth.
Professional Career
Michelle Obama’s professional career has been diverse and impactful. After graduating from Harvard Law School in 1988, she joined the Chicago law firm Sidley Austin, specializing in marketing and intellectual property law. However, she soon realized that corporate law wasn’t her true calling.
In 1991, Michelle shifted to public service, assisting Chicago Mayor Richard Daley and later as the Assistant Commissioner of Planning and Development. She then became the founding Executive Director of the Chicago chapter of Public Allies, a nonprofit organization that prepares young people for careers in public service.
In 1996, Michelle joined the University of Chicago, first as Associate Dean of Student Services and later as Executive Director of Community Affairs for the University of Chicago Medical Center. Her work focused on building connections between the hospital and the community.
As First Lady from 2009 to 2017, Michelle launched several initiatives. Her “Let’s Move!” campaign tackled childhood obesity, while “Joining Forces” supported military families. She also championed education through the “Reach Higher” initiative, encouraging young people to pursue higher education.
Since leaving the White House, Michelle has continued her advocacy work through speaking engagements, writing, and the Obama Foundation. Her memoir, “Becoming,” has allowed her to share her story with millions of readers worldwide.
Investment and Funding
Since leaving office, the Obamas have made strategic investments. Their production deal with Netflix is a creative venture and a significant investment in the entertainment industry. While specific details of their investments are not public, it’s known that they’ve invested in education technology companies and social impact initiatives.
The Obama Foundation raises funds through donations to support its various programs and the construction of the Obama Presidential Center. This center, set to open in Chicago, represents a significant investment in the community where Michelle grew up.
Contact Details and Social Network Handles
Michelle Obama is active on social media, sharing updates about her work and personal life. You can follow her on:
| Platform | Handle/Link |
|---|---|
| @MichelleObama | |
| @michelleobama | |
| Michelle Obama | |
| Contact | Through the Obama Foundation or literary agency |
Contact can be made through the Obama Foundation website or her literary agency for business inquiries or speaking engagements. However, direct contact information is not publicly available due to privacy and security concerns.
Conclusion
Michelle Obama’s journey from Chicago’s South Side to becoming one of the most influential women in the world is truly inspiring. Her commitment to public service, education, and healthy living continues to impact lives around the globe. Whether through her books, speeches, or ongoing initiatives, Michelle Obama remains a powerful voice for change and a role model for generations to come.
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