Dr. Michelle Story-Stewart is the Founder and Principal Consultant of MSS Consulting, a management and business advisory firm established in 2012. Guided by a commitment to "Management and Strategy, for Sustainability". MSS Consulting helps businesses, nonprofit organizations, and public-sector entities strengthen their financial position, improve operations, and develop practical strategies for sustainable growth.

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With more than 25 years of experience, Dr. Story-Stewart brings expertise in executive finance, organizational management, business strategy, budgeting, pricing, internal controls, audit readiness, regulatory compliance, and operational improvement. Known for her analytical approach and collaborative leadership style, she helps clients transform complex challenges into clear priorities, stronger systems, and measurable results.

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Throughout her career, Dr. Story-Stewart has held senior financial, operational, and advisory roles across multiple sectors. She previously served as Senior Partner and Chief Operating Officer of The J. Francis Consulting Group. She has also served as Chief Financial Officer for organizations in the energy-services and governmental land-use sectors and as Senior Program Officer for a national community development financial institution. During her 10-year tenure with the CDFI, she provided financial management, real estate development, and organizational capacity-building assistance to nonprofit and for-profit organizations.

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Dr. Story-Stewart also brings extensive experience working with public-private partnerships, philanthropic institutions, and community stakeholders to develop comprehensive community investment models. Her background includes managing HUD Section 4, Community Development Block Grant, and Neighborhood Stabilization Program grants and contracts—from development and implementation through closeout and reporting.

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A trained economist and respected strategy and equity leader, Dr. Story-Stewart is recognized for providing thoughtful guidance, proactive oversight, and results-oriented solutions. Through MSS Consulting, she brings Management that strengthens, Strategy that advances, and Sustainability that lasts—helping leaders make informed decisions and prepare their organizations for what comes next.

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Dr. Story-Stewart earned her bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University and holds both a master’s degree in economics and a doctorate in Public Policy Analysis and Urban Planning from the University of Illinois Chicago. She and her family reside in Detroit.