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Michele M. Bria, Arts ’90, Grad ’92
 Dr. Michele Bria is executive director of the Journey House,
a community-based organization established in 1969 on Milwaukee’s
near-south side.
Based on research identifying education
as the most effective strategy to end generational poverty,
Journey House provides a rigorous educational program coupled
with workforce development that assists economically challenged
youth to stay safe, finish high school and continue their education.
Journey House also provides GED in English and Spanish and
English as a Second Language classes for adult learners so that
parents can earn livable wages for their families. In addition,
the organization runs youth leadership and Too Good for Drugs
programs, as well as the largest inner-city soccer league in
Milwaukee.
Journey
House serves more than 4,600 children and adults at eight sites
just across the 16th Street viaduct from Marquette. “It
is almost as if I have never left campus,” says Michele. “Our
incredible, culturally diverse neighborhood is a Milwaukee
treasure. It is a vibrant community filled with hope.”
Michele
considers Journey House a microcosm of Marquette University’s
values of academic excellence and leadership through service.
“We
help level the playing field to allow every person – regardless
of circumstance or background – to have the opportunity
to fully participate in a self-help program that can help take
them to the next phase in their lives – even achieve
the American Dream,” she says.
Michele has held
several teaching positions and given numerous lectures, and
is a member of many Milwaukee professional organizations. “I
thank God daily for allowing me to lead Journey House,” she
says. “I
am incredibly blessed to work with the children and families
there.”
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