At the intersection of professionalism and purpose, you’ll find Girls Inc. of Metro Denver board member, Michelle Suniga.

With a career spanning across multiple years leading teams and community-focused initiatives as an Administration Manager at U.S. Bank in Denver and a proud board member for the last six years, Michelle’s journey is built on education and service.

Her story begins in southwest Denver in the Girls Inc. of Metro Denver neighborhood, where her grandparents lived. “My family traces back 10 generations in Colorado and New Mexico,” she shares. “They were very active in the Chicano movement in the 60s and 70s.”

As the oldest grandchild, Michelle grew up in a family that strongly valued education, a theme that would shape her entire life. During her time at CU Denver, where she studied political science and public administration, she also began to establish a love for service.

Her career journey began humbly as a part-time bank teller, but Michelle’s drive for growth quickly led her to pursue opportunities in project management and leadership. Her path eventually led her to a graduate program and, later, a role in community affairs, which would ignite her passion for connecting with and supporting others in meaningful ways.

Then, in 2017 during a leadership class, Michelle met Sonya Garcia Ulibarri, former President and CEO of Girls Inc. of Metro Denver. It was then that Michelle began taking an interest in social enterprise.

“During my time in community affairs, I joined a social enterprise committee,” she recalls. “I served on that committee for two years before being approached in early 2019 to serve on the board.”

Although Michelle had never been on a board before, she was drawn to the opportunity to contribute to an organization that aligned with her values. “What resonates with me the most are the ‘strong’ and ‘bold’ values of Girls Inc.’s mission,” she shares. “Strong means taking care of myself. In my 40s, I realize that work will always be there, but I need to prioritize my well-being. ‘Bold ‘is about using your voice and advocating for others, especially when you’re in spaces where you’re the minority.”

But perhaps one of the greatest impressions Michelle has left on the organization is something everyone can witness when they tour the Girls Inc. of Metro Denver building.

“Thanks to a $50,000 grant from U.S. Bank, we were able to support remodeling the former teen space in the gym to a STEM/maker lab and the mural on the wall in that room,” Michelle says. “That was such a meaningful moment because it brought the community together in a way that was both creative and impactful.”

Michelle’s service has been filled with meaningful relationships, networking opportunities, and personal growth. She believes Girls Inc. of Metro Denver is tackling real issues facing girls and young women, and that their work in the community is providing them with opportunities to reach their full potential.

So, when we asked Michelle what advice she would give to her younger self, especially as a female in a male-dominated industry, we weren’t surprised.

“The challenges will get harder, but you will grow through them,” she tells us. “Don’t be afraid to change. You’ll overcome obstacles, and they will help shape who you become.”

And if the next generation of girls and women turn out anything like Michelle Suniga, we’re confident the world will include more strength, resilience, and impact in support of their futures than ever before.