He also directs IJ’s National Food Freedom Initiative. Before joining IJ, Michael worked as an associate with Perkins Coie LLP and as a law clerk for Judge Rhesa Hawkins Barksdale of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. Prior to beginning his legal career, he served as an engineer officer in the United States Army and Pennsylvania Army National Guard. Michael received his law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School and his undergraduate degree from the United States Military Academy at West Point.