The Young Alumnus/Alumna Award

As a middle grades education major, Michelle Koussa earned her undergraduate degree in 2005 and her master of education degree in 2010. She has taught at Independence Middle School for the past 13 years. She is a strong believer in community engagement and has partnered with local businesses and organizations to bring classroom lessons to life. She founded the iMovement Program, which has a mission to spread kindness and generosity throughout the city, state and world. She encourages her students to “Be the Change.” Michelle has taken on leadership roles by serving on various committees at school, as well as a volleyball coach, Student Council Advisor, and Kiwanis Builders Club Advisor.

Michelle has served on the Ohio Middle Level Association Board since 2011 and was recently named president-elect. She has presented at state conferences since 2004, and national conferences in Atlanta, Minneapolis, Baltimore, Louisville, Philadelphia and Columbus. Her writings have been published in the AMLE Journal as well and was recognized this year as the 2018 OMLA Educator of the Year. She has also been the recipient of the Ohio Lottery Teacher of the Month, Newschannel 5 Teacher of the Month, Independence Local Schools' iPride Star, Plain Dealer Crystal Apple Award, OMLA Regional Award, OMLA Team of the Year and OMLA Service Learning Award.

Michelle is an adjunct professor with AU where she teaches undergraduate classes on campus and online professional development for adults. She has a deep love for Ashland University and served on the Ashland University Alumni Association Board of Directors from 2011-2018, where she served as president from 2017-2018. Michelle resides in Strongsville with her husband Tony, sons Griffin and Oliver, and 2 dogs, Oscar and Gracie.