Michael spent his early years exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina and first developed his love of mountain biking, skiing, and fishing in the Appalachians. As a high schooler growing up in Charlotte, North Carolina, Michael learned he also had a passion for international travel and exploration. Pursuing these passions as a student, Michael graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a bachelor’s degree in Global Studies and Political Science, with a focus on international relations and Latin American politics. After college, Michael went on to lead student trips in Peru and Wyoming for adventure-travel company Moondance Adventures, and eventually became their full-time Director of International Operations. Although he originally moved to Colorado for the skiing, Michael quickly fell in love with the Rockies and everything Steamboat and the Yampa Valley have to offer. Michael is excited to start this year at Steamboat Mountain School, and share his passions for travel and exploring in the mountains with students and colleagues.