Obama is a former lawyer, First Lady of the United States, and the author of American Grown, Becoming, and The Light We Carry. Born in Chicago in 1964, she studied at Princeton University and later graduated from Harvard law school. Obama built a successful career working in various positions. She was first employed at a Chicago law firm and then worked in municipal politics in Chicago. Next, she served as the Executive Director for the nonprofit Public Allies, which focused on youth engagement in social issues. Obama then worked for the University of Chicago Hospital but left her position when her husband was elected president and the family moved to Washington, DC, and she assumed the position of First Lady.

She has been widely celebrated for her contributions as First Lady. In addition to hosting traditional events at the White House such as holiday celebrations, Obama created four public engagement campaigns. Reach Higher advocates for students to finish school, while Let Girls Learn supports girls’ education internationally. The Let’s Move campaign encourages culinary and nutrition education for US children and promotes exercise and play for kids. Joining Forces helps veterans find employment and access mental health services after they retire from the military.