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Michelle Hayes has a diverse work experience in the field of child welfare and education. Michelle started their career in 2011 as a Lead Teacher at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where they worked until May 2012. Following this, they joined Illinois Mentor as a Child Welfare Specialist from June 2012 to October 2013. Michelle then joined the Children's Home Association of Illinois in October 2013 as a Foster Care Supervisor. Michelle was later promoted to the role of Associate Director of Foster Care in July 2020 and most recently became the Director of Foster Care in September 2022.

Michelle Hayes obtained a Master's degree in Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management from Bradley University between 2022 and 2024. Prior to that, they earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences and a Master of Science (MS) degree in the same field from Eastern Illinois University. Michelle also holds several additional certifications, including Solution Based Casework from Solution Based Casework, Social Services Associates, LLC, and CWEL (Child Welfare Employee License) from DCFS. Michelle has also obtained a certification in Youth Mental Health First Aid from the Children's Home Association of Illinois, although the specific month and year are not provided.