Michele Pollard Patrick knows what it takes to earn a seat at the table. She has spent the last 30 years helping to develop and improve the corporate workforce into successful executives. As Founder of National Protocol and Co-Founder of Owens Patrick Leadership Seminars, Michele focuses on soft skill development, including business and cross-cultural etiquette, emotional intelligence, and body language. In more than 25 years as a protocol and etiquette consultant, Michele has trained future leaders across industries from companies like Bank of America, GE, and ExxonMobil.

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In addition to her corporate experience, Michele works with colleges and universities to prepare students to transition into the professional world. She offers domestic and international dining etiquette programs and networking and interviewing skills to graduate and undergraduate students from Harvard University, Georgetown University, Duke University and University of Maryland and several other universities across the country. Her academic trainings give students both the knowledge and the confidence they need to enter and succeed in the workforce.

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As a certified protocol officer, a position she has held for more than 15 years, Michele has consulted for government agencies on the proper procedures and practices for hosting foreign dignitaries. Under the George W. Bush administration, she welcomed the Chinese cabinet for the Chinese SED II visit and supported the G7 meeting in Washington, D.C. Her work as a protocol officer extends to the Ryder Cup where she offered her advice on ceremony and flag placement.

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Michele is a graduate of the Body Language Institute and has earned her Master Trainer designation from the Protocol School of Washington. She is a Co-Sponsor of Capitol Cotillion and serves on the judging panel for Distinguished Young Women of Maryland. Her dynamic presentation skills earned her a spot in the TEDX Wilmington rotation.

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