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After growing up in Lorain, Ohio, Michelle Macartney (’85,’89) was initially drawn to BW due to its enrollment size and its music therapy and Honors programs, but during her campus visits, something else stood out:
“What really made an impression was how personable the faculty and administration were when I visited as a prospective student. I still have fond, vivid memories of meeting Dr. Neal Malicky, President at the time, and Dr. Mark Collier, then VP/Dean of Academics, during my visits.”
During her time as an undergraduate, Michelle was active on campus, joining Zeta Tau Alpha and acting as May Day Coordinator during her junior year. She credits her experience in ZTA as the most personally impactful of her time at BW:
“Not only do I have lifelong friends in the sisters I met while at BW, but my continued involvement as an alumna allowed me to connect to the fraternity at a national level and develop so many lasting friendships.”
Michelle remains active as an alumna of Zeta Tau Alpha, acting as a National Officer for the Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation and serving as a regional coordinator for ZTA’s support of the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks with the American Cancer Society. In addition to her involvement at the national level, Michelle also serves locally as Treasurer of her alumnae chapter.
After graduating with a double major in music and business, Michelle began a career in the financial services industry at AmeriTrust (now KeyBank). In 1990, after earning her MBA at BW, she moved to the San Francisco Bay Area to lead the delivery of professional services for a company that provides solutions to the financial services industry. In 1999, she relocated to San Diego, where she resides today.
Seven years ago, after working for several other companies with increasing management responsibilities, Michelle began at Bridgeforce, a consulting firm that focuses on consumer and small business lending, payments, and deposit. There, she is a Managing Partner and owner who oversees the company’s U.S. consulting practice. She also serves as a board member for Bridgeforce LLC and for Bridgeforce Data Solutions, where she is also a co-founder.
Though Michelle resides on the west coast, she remains a faithful Cleveland sports fan, cheering on the Indians and even supporting the Browns as a season ticket holder! She is also an avid traveler.
When asked what has inspired her involvement as a BW alumna, Michelle explains, “It’s really to give back – I strongly believe that the education I received both as an undergraduate and MBA student positioned me well for my career. I also had the support at BW to develop leadership skills that gave me confidence. I want to see others have the same opportunity.”
As a member of Women for BW, Michelle looks forward to connecting with others who share her passion for supporting BW and collegiate women in pursuing their dreams.
Thank you, Michelle!
Written by Liz Clay '07
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