Jeanette A. Michael, J.D. ’75, GW Board of Trustees member and former executive director of D.C. Lottery and Charitable Games Control Board, died on Nov. 28.
Ms. Michael served as D.C. Lottery’s first general counsel, deputy director of the D.C. Department of Human Services, a supervisory attorney in the Office of Corporation Counsel, and as chief of staff for former D.C. Mayor Marion Barry. In 2001, Ms. Michael became deputy director of operations for the D.C. Lottery and was appointed executive director shortly thereafter.
A passionate advocate for the advancement of African American members of the legal community, Ms. Michael served as founder and first president of GW’s Black Law Alumni Association. Ms. Michael was also active in promoting breast cancer awareness. In 2009, GW recognized Ms. Michael with the Spirit of Life Award at its annual Cancer Gala. She also received an Outstanding Alumnus Award from the University in 1997.
Ms. Michael is a recipient of many community and government awards, including the Excellence in Public Service Award from the D.C. Chapter of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators and a certificate of merit from the D.C. government.
A funeral service will be held Dec. 5 at the Saint Augustine Roman Catholic Church at 1419 V St., NW. Visitation is from 9-10 a.m., contribution from 10-11 a.m., and funeral mass at 11 a.m.
In recognition of her commitment to the GW Law community, GW’s Law School established a scholarship in Ms. Michael's name. Please contact the Law School Dean’s Office for more information.