Michelle Fields

Michelle M. Fields was born and raised in Seattle’s Central Area, where she continues to reside as a proud homeowner and community member. She has always had an interest in multicultural diversity, attending Eckstein Junior High and Roosevelt High Schools as part of the groundbreaking Voluntary Racial Transfer Program (VRTP). From a young age, Michelle had a desire to work in the criminal justice system. Becoming a teen mother in high school sharpened her determination to reach that goal. She graduated from Roosevelt in 1972, balancing parenting with earning a Bachelor of Arts in Community Service with a Certificate in Alcohol Studies from Seattle University. She earned her Master of Arts in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix (Seattle), overcoming numerous obstacles along her journey. Michelle’s 40 year career began at the King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD), as the first black female Jail Aide in Food Services. She continued to advance in her career as Corrections Officer and Sergeant; and ultimately became the first black female Corrections Captain, a position she held until her retirement in 2018. Throughout her tenure at DAJD, she was recognized for her friendly, positive attitude; conflict management and resolution abilities; supervision, leadership, team management; and interpersonal communication skills. Michelle’s real career trademark was recognizing the humanity of the incarcerated individuals, which improved morale and reduced negative outcomes within the jail environment. She brings these passions and skills to RARE in the spirit of continuing her work towards racial and social justice. Michelle is active in the community, serving on the Black Law Enforcement Association of Washington (BLEAW) organization, as a member and recently as the secretary. In addition to serving on the Board of Directors, she currently serves on RARE’s Connections and the Restorative Justice committees. Michelle enjoys reading, music, line dancing, traveling and spending time with her daughter, grandson, and son-in-law.