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Michelle Paige Paterson facts for kids

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Michelle Paige Paterson
NY State First Lady Michelle Paige Patterson.jpg
First Lady of New York
In role
March 17, 2008 – December 31, 2010
Governor David Paterson
Preceded by Silda Wall Spitzer
Succeeded by Sandra Lee (de facto)
Second Lady of New York
In role
January 1, 2007 – March 17, 2008
Lieutenant Governor David Paterson
Preceded by Anthony Ricci
Succeeded by Gail Skelos (acting)
Personal details
Born (1961-04-01) April 1, 1961 (age 64)
Fairfield, California, U.S.
Spouse
(m. 1992; div. 2014)
Children 2
Known for First Lady of New York state

Michelle R. Paige Paterson, born on April 1, 1961, is a healthcare expert. She served as the First Lady of New York state from 2008 to 2010. As First Lady, she supported important health programs.

About Michelle Paterson

Early Life and Education

Michelle Paige Paterson was born in Fairfield, California. She spent her early childhood in the Crown Heights area of Brooklyn, New York City. Later, she moved to Staten Island, another part of New York City. Her mother, a manager for the Postal Service, raised her there.

Michelle attended Syracuse University for her college studies. She then earned a graduate degree in health-care management. This advanced degree helped her become an expert in managing health programs.

Role as First Lady

Michelle became the First Lady of New York on March 17, 2008. This happened when her husband, David Paterson, became the governor. He took office after the previous governor resigned. Michelle was the first African-American First Lady in New York state history.

As First Lady, she focused on health and wellness. She worked as a director for a special program. This program, at the Health Insurance Plan of New York (an HMO), helps people with long-term health issues. It teaches them skills to manage their health better. Before this, she worked to represent North General Hospital in Manhattan.

Family Life

Michelle Paterson married David Paterson on November 21, 1992. They have a son named Alex, who was born in February 1994. Michelle also has a daughter named Ashley from a previous marriage. Governor Paterson helped raise Ashley.

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