Michael is consistently recognized as a top environmental attorney in Washington, D.C., by such publications as Thomson Reuters Super Lawyers, the Washington Post, and Washingtonian Magazine. He currently serves as Environmental Counsel for The Hopi Tribe, and regularly represents Native American Tribes on environmental matters. He was selected by the Attorney General of North Carolina to represent the state in a regional air pollution reduction initiative.
“We are very pleased to have Michael as a new member of the Leadership Council. His vast experience in this area of environmental law—particularly his work with Native American Tribes—make him an invaluable and welcome addition to the Council,” said ELI President John C. Cruden. “Our members help guide ELI toward its vision of a healthy environment, prosperous economy and vibrant community, and Michael’s efforts are helping us further that vision.”
Prior to joining Hunsucker Goodstein, Michael served with the U.S. Department of Justice in the Environmental Enforcement Section for 12 years. He is a two-time recipient of the John Marshall Award, one of the Department of Justice’s highest honors for outstanding legal achievement. He has also received the Gold Medal from the Administrator of the U.S. EPA for his contributions to the Clean Water Act enforcement program. He earned his B.A. from Brown University in 1981 and a J.D. from Cornell Law School in 1984.
The ELI Leadership Council is the Institute’s group for the most prominent environment, energy, and natural resource leaders in the nation. The Council recognizes leaders for their commitment of resources and time to the Institute’s vision of a healthy environment, prosperous economies, and vibrant communities founded on the rule of law. Members participate in events and have a chance to network and engage other leaders in discussions about key environmental law and policy issues.