A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Michelle Dartis is a self-published author, adjunct faculty member, freelance writer, and works as a therapist and as a behavior consultant. She holds a bachelor’s degree in social work and three distinct graduate degrees in library science, higher education with a specialization in leadership for student success, and human and social services. Recently, she earned a Ph. D. degree in Human and Social Services.
Michelle is the recipient of various awards, including the Indiana Librarians Leading in Diversity MLS Fellowship Project and the American Library Association/Spectrum Institute REACH 21 Scholarship Initiative. She has over thirty-five years of professional experience in mental health, behavior management, therapy, developmental disabilities, sexual assault counseling, case management, and teaching.
Michelle’s debut novel, “This Ain’t That: An Erotic Novel” was published in September 2021 on Amazon.com and became a first-time children’s book author in December 2023 by publishing “Trinity’s Earthly Arrival from Heaven.” This book is available on Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.com. Her forthcoming second children’s book, “I Wish I Was White: Racial Identity and Self-Esteem.” This book is based on a real event that took place a few years ago when Michelle’s granddaughter Trinity said one day to her unexpectedly, “I wish I was White.” Trinity’s statement had such a profound impact on her, that it led her to write a book based on her comment. The book is about strengthening racial identity and uplifting self-esteem in today’s youth (no matter what they find “wrong” with them), especially Black girls.