Outside the Office
Michael’s interests include hiking, running, traveling and exploring his genealogy.
Once or twice a week, Michael enjoys hiking with his wife in Busiek State Forest, just south of Springfield. He also has participated in several half-marathons and a marathon.
In 2017, Michael and his wife traveled to England as part of a three-week European vacation to visit their daughter, who was working for Parliament. While there, Michael visited ancestral burial sites, including a 16th-generation grandfather who was buried under the chancel of a church and a 15th-generation grandfather, who was buried in a chapel where three “Harry Potter” movies were filmed.
Michael and his wife.
Community Leadership
Enthusiasm for the arts and love of his hometown have drawn Michael to his civic involvements.
Michael grew up next door to the Springfield Art Museum and considered a career in art before attending law school. He has always supported the museum and previously held a leadership role on the Board of Directors. While on the board, the museum added its most recent wing to the gallery and he assisted with the financial aspect of operating the museum. He enjoyed the opportunity to view the fine artwork the museum was considering for purchase.
He especially enjoys the museum’s annual Watercolor USA event, a national exhibition that recognizes watermedia painting and honors chosen artists with cash awards.
- Springfield Police Officers and Firefighters Retirement System, Board of Trustees, 2016-present
- Christ Episcopal Church Foundation, Board of Directors, 2016-present
- Springfield Art Museum, Board of Directors, 2004-2010
- Springfield Little Theatre, Board of Directors, 2004-2011
- Watershed Committee of the Ozarks, Board of Directors, 2009-2016