The New Obama Factor Why Michelle Obama Matters

By Keri Day There is a new Obama Factor.  And it’s not the President. Michelle Obama’s recent trip to South Africa inspired me to take a closer look at her expanding role and why she matters more and more on the international political stage.  But, let me travel back to the first time I encountered Mrs. Obama. I first heard her not at a political rally or on President Barak Obama’s 2008 campaign trail, but at a religious service.  Articulate and authentic, she stood on behalf of the then presidential-hopeful Barak Obama at a funeral for a major African-American denominational leader.  As I looked around, she had clearly captivated everyone in the church.  Her genuine concern and care for people emanated from her speech that day.  Clearly, she knew how to connect.  And I didn’t forget it.  As I listened to people’s conversations after the service, I realized that others would not forget her either. After President Obama’s election and [...]