Michelle Stoddart: Transforming Communities Through Unwavering Leadership
Michelle Stoddart has always made one thing clear: she bets on herself. From her early years growing up in Savanna-la-mar, Jamaica, to becoming one of New York’s most influential figures in community development, Michelle’s journey is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and an unshakable commitment to uplifting those around her. Today, she serves as the Senior Vice President of Community Development and Public Affairs for Resorts World New York City—a role that sees her shaping not just the future of a major casino, but also the vitality of the communities it serves.
A Journey Defined by Service and Adaptability
Michelle’s story is one of transformation. She started at National Commercial Bank in Jamaica as a counter clerk and, despite the odds, propelled herself into the world of corporate America. Through sheer determination and a relentless work ethic, Michelle climbed the ranks to become the first minority director at Resorts World Casino in New York, where she has since earned an influential position as Senior Vice President.
But what makes Michelle’s journey particularly remarkable is her belief in the power of passion. “I need to find passion and drive for whatever is in front of me,” she says. And it was her deep commitment to community that ultimately guided her career trajectory. From her role as Director of Marketing and Tourism at the Queens Economic Development Corporation to her current position, Michelle has always aligned her career with a larger sense of purpose.
It’s no coincidence that service runs in Michelle’s blood. Raised by parents who were both deeply involved in community organizations—her mother a Girl Guide commissioner and her father a United Way member—Michelle was immersed in a world of volunteerism and support for others from a young age. Whether helping to build bus shelters or distributing food after natural disasters, Michelle’s parents instilled in her the belief that if you have the power to help, you should.
Reshaping the Landscape of Queens
As Director of Marketing and Tourism at QEDC, Michelle was integral in crafting campaigns that redefined the borough of Queens as a cultural and economic hub. But one of her greatest accomplishments came in 2009, when she spearheaded the annual “Taste of the World” food festival. Held at Citi Field, the new home of the Mets, the event transformed from a small gathering to a monumental success, attracting over 3,000 visitors. Initially, Citi Field’s administration hesitated to host the event, but Michelle’s unwavering drive and her ability to adapt her pitch eventually convinced them. The result was an event that not only exceeded expectations, but helped bring the diverse culinary flavors of Queens to a global audience.
The success of “Taste of the World” exemplified Michelle’s knack for thinking outside the box and her ability to turn any challenge into an opportunity. That same determination would serve her well when she entered the world of casinos—a sector she had no prior experience in, yet one she knew she could transform with her unique skill set.
Venturing Into Uncharted Territory
When Michelle took on the role of Director of Community Development at Resorts World Casino, she was stepping into a new world. With limited knowledge of the intricacies of casino operations, she relied on her ability to understand people and communities. “I didn’t look at it as applying for a casino position,” she recalls. “I saw it as going to use my transferable skills to help them integrate this new industry into New York City.”
Her approach was simple but effective: to connect the community with the casino, showcasing the job opportunities it offered, the benefits it brought to local businesses, and its potential as a positive force in the community. She broke down the stigmas associated with casinos, promoting them as places that provided economic opportunities for the people of Queens. As she moved up through the ranks, eventually becoming Senior Vice President, her role expanded to not only developing community outreach, but also using the casino’s resources to drive social impact.
One of her key achievements has been integrating local artists into the casino’s environment. With her mother being an artist herself, Michelle has used her position to showcase local artwork in the casino, offering a platform for Queens’ diverse artistic community. It’s a gesture that speaks to her personal commitment to art and her respect for creativity in all forms.
Breaking Barriers as a Black Woman in Corporate America
Michelle’s rise to prominence has not been without its challenges, particularly as a Black woman in corporate America. Though she acknowledges that her career might have progressed differently if she were white, she is resolute in her belief that nothing will stop her. “They can put up their fences, but I’m going over, around, whatever it takes to get where I want to go,” she says with confidence. It’s this relentless drive, paired with her ability to foster inclusive environments, that has made her a trailblazer in her field.
She has never been one to shy away from tackling the tough issues—whether that means challenging corporate norms or advocating for diversity and inclusion. Michelle has consistently used her platform to create opportunities for those who may not have had them otherwise. Her work is proof that leadership is not just about reaching the top; it’s about making space for others to rise alongside you.
A Legacy of Impact and Leadership
Michelle Stoddart’s leadership goes beyond boardrooms and community initiatives. She is a driving force behind the success of over 200 nonprofit organizations through Resorts World’s charitable contributions. Her impact has been felt not only in Queens, but also in various other regions as she has worked tirelessly to uplift the Caribbean American community and beyond.
Her current roles reflect her deep commitment to social change. As Vice Chair for the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation and Chair of the Jamaica YMCA, Michelle continues to build on her legacy of fostering community development and economic growth. She is also a key player on the boards of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, and the Queens Public Library, where she leverages her position to further her vision of an equitable and thriving community.
Through it all, Michelle’s philosophy remains clear: service is at the heart of everything she does. It’s a thread that runs through her career, her community involvement, and her personal life.
Michelle Stoddart’s journey is a shining example of what happens when passion, perseverance, and community intersect. Her unwavering belief in herself, coupled with her determination to elevate those around her, makes her a true force for positive change. As she continues to break barriers and redefine what leadership looks like, there’s no telling how far she’ll go—but one thing is certain: Michelle Stoddart will always bet on herself.
