Mike has advanced degrees in regional planning from the University of North Carolina and in education from Xavier University. His career includes 25 years of teaching
Appalachian studies.

He founded and directed the Urban Appalachian Council in Cincinnati, staffed the Appalachian Area Office of Catholic Social Services for 21 years and served as Urban
Poverty staff for APSO/EAM for six years. In these jobs he helped create a multimillion dollar network of programs.

As a consultant he has conducted numerous community studies, resolved conflicts, helped long-range plans and facilitated meetings and workshops. He also served as lead consultant for the Appalachian Arts Program
of the Ohio Arts Council.

His work as Appalachian Lay Ministry Staff for the Diocese of Southern Ohio gives him experience working directly with small churches in rural and inner city areas. He has extensive experience with the Episcopal Church at all levels, including serving as staff for the Episcopal Network of Economic Justice.

During the Transition, Sandy Elledge will continue to do EAM financial work and oversee the publication of Mountain Echoes. Kate Hannon will continue to serve as work camp director.