“Professionally, the knowledge gained throughout the graduate program equipped me with new analytical skills to better understand and address new and emerging conservation challenges. Over the years, I have been able to share these knowledge and skills with my colleagues and government institutions through mentorship and short training programs.”
Michel received a 2000 Beinecke Scholarship to pursue a master’s at the University of Florida, Gainesville. After completing his degree in 2002, he went on to complete his Ph.D. from the University of Vermont in 2010. A 2004 recipient of the National Geographic Buffett Award for Leadership in Conservation, Michel is a steadfast leader and vocal advocate for African conservation. A highlight of his role as WCS Rwanda Country Director was the creation of Nyungwe Forest National Park in 2004, one of the largest remaining mountain forests in Rwanda and the Albertine Rift region. Michel advanced to the role of Deputy Wildlife Practice Leader for Africa at World Wildlife Fund (WWF) International, where he advanced strategic design, implementation support, and evaluation of WWF’s wildlife conservation portfolio across the continent. Today, Michel serves as the WCS Director of Policy and Partnerships for Africa.
Carrying forward the Beinecke Scholar tradition, Michel mentors countless African conservationists and is a champion for capacity building in the field.