Michelle Clarke Payne is the driving force behind United Way of Southeast Louisiana’s strategy, storytelling, and resource development, ensuring the organization’s mission mobilizes people to action. As Chief Strategy & Resiliency Officer, she leads the charge in crafting initiatives that make a measurable difference, from disaster response to donor engagement.
When crisis strikes, Michelle is on the front lines, mobilizing resources at the speed of need. Whether securing emergency aid for families after a hurricane, launching rapid financial assistance programs for hospitality workers during the pandemic, or standing alongside victims’ families and survivors of the New Year’s Day Bourbon Street attack, she ensures help arrives when it’s needed most. In addition, she spearheaded United Way’s effort to launch the United Way of Southeast Louisiana Resiliency Center founded by Rebuilding Together. Under her leadership, United Way has raised nearly $10 million for immediate relief and long-term recovery, proving that strategic giving can be a lifeline in the toughest times.
Beyond disaster response, Michelle is shaping the next generation of cause-driven marketers. As an adjunct professor at Tulane University, she brings real-world expertise into the classroom, mentoring students and inspiring them to turn passion into purpose-driven careers. Her impact on education has earned her recognition as the American Advertising Federation’s 2023 Educator of the Year and a spot among Loyola University’s “40 Under 40.”
Her leadership extends well beyond the workplace. She currently serves as the president of the Junior League of New Orleans, a member of the Women United Global Leadership Council, and an advocate for women’s leadership in philanthropy and community impact. She most recently was named by New Orleans Magazine as a 2025 Top Female Achiever, New Orleans City Business’ Power 50 Leaders, Icon Award Honoree and Women of the Year honoree. She is also a proud graduate of New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute, the Women Leadership Academy at Loyola University New Orleans, and United Way’s Advanced Leadership Program, reinforcing her commitment to lifelong learning and service.
Michelle earned her Bachelor of Arts from Loyola University New Orleans and her Master of Public Administration from the University of New Orleans. She and her husband are raising their two children in the city she loves. You’ll find them most often on the parade route, festival grounds, and playing fields, cheering on the teams they love.