Michelle Hite ('88)

Michelle Hite's first love was James Madison University. Few professionals are as completely devoted to a school as was the late editor of Madison magazine, who unexpectedly died in 2014. After earning a degree in communications, she worked in development before returning to her alma mater, landing "her dream job" with Montpelier, the precursor of Madison. Soon she rose to the editor's chair, helping to guide the magazine to a record 14 CASE awards, including a 2011 Grand Award. In 2005, she was recognized with the James Madison Distinguished Service Award. The first of her family to attend college, Michelle reached the pinnacle of a career she loved. In the process, she enhanced JMU's reputation through an unmatched commitment to excellence.