There are people who talk about impact, and then there are people who build it. This week inside ADRI.V’s Go Getta District, we’re spotlighting a woman who has been doing the work, leading with purpose, and creating real change across Buffalo and that is Michelle Barron.
Michelle Barron is the definition of a Go Getta. With more than 20 years of experience in economic development, planning, management, and public administration, she has built a career rooted in transformation, helping individuals, businesses, and communities grow and thrive.
Her journey began at the Buffalo Economic Renaissance Corporation, where she rose through the ranks to become Vice President of Neighborhood Development. In that role, she led economic development initiatives for the City of Buffalo, supporting small businesses, assisting minority contractors, and managing façade improvement programs that helped bring new life to commercial corridors. She also created the Entrepreneurial Assistance Program, working alongside local businesses, organizations, and residents to design strategies tailored to the unique needs of each neighborhood.
Her leadership earned national recognition, including the American Planning Association Award for Best Practice for her work on the CARE Market Study and Revitalization Plan, which transformed a former East Utica library into a professional services incubator. She also received a Preservation Award for Rehabilitation and Adaptive Reuse for her role in developing the Beverly A. Gray Business Incubator.
In 2013, Michelle transitioned into the nonprofit space as Executive Director of Dress for Success Buffalo , where her impact has continued to grow. Under her leadership, the organization has empowered more than 3,500 women by providing professional attire, career readiness support, and workforce development resources at no cost.
In June 2024, she led the launch of the Rolling Into Success Mobile Boutique, a first-of-its-kind initiative in Western New York. The mobile unit delivers styling services, workforce support, and empowerment programming directly into underserved communities—expanding access and removing barriers for women entering or re-entering the workforce.
Michelle has also strengthened partnerships with community organizations and behavioral health providers, helping to integrate mental health awareness and holistic support into workforce development programming. Her leadership has expanded the organization’s reach and positioned it as a vital resource for women navigating both career and personal growth…