Michele Haynes

When Michele Haynes retired from her career as a nonprofit development professional, she began looking for meaningful ways to stay engaged with both community and culture. Already intrigued by the work of Nordic Northwest, she applied to volunteer and was soon recruited to the Development Committee, later joining the Nordic Nights gala committee.



“The idea of deepening my connection to Nordic Northwest only grew as I interacted with staff and volunteers,” Michele said. “I was inspired by the organization’s strategic vision, mission, and values, and I saw meaningful ways I could contribute to supporting this important community asset.”



After 17 years working in nonprofit fundraising for a large community health center, Michele felt drawn to continue using her experience in service of an organization that combines cultural education, community engagement, and Nordic values in an accessible and welcoming way.



Michele spent a dozen years in Alaska, where her appreciation for northern landscapes, Nordic traditions, and Indigenous cultures deepened significantly. She became especially interested in the historic connections between the Sámi people and Alaska Native communities, rooted in the late nineteenth-century reindeer herding initiatives that brought Sámi families from northern Scandinavia to Alaska.



Michele brings a collaborative leadership style, strong relationship building skills, and extensive experience in nonprofit development and community engagement. She values thoughtful governance, strategic planning, and creating welcoming spaces where volunteers, members, and the broader community feel connected and inspired to participate.