ATLANTA – The ACLU of Georgia announced the appointment of Michelle Burrell as its new executive director. She brings a wealth of experience fighting for civil rights and social justice across many legal and civil rights organizations. She will succeed Andrea Young, who has served as executive director since January 2017.
Burrell’s distinguished career has deep roots in the legal community. Most recently, she served as the Director of Queens Legal Services LSNYC, where she led a team of over 100 and ensured low-income communities had access to high-quality, high-impact legal services. Over the years of her career, her integrated, cross-practice leadership has bridged criminal defense, family defense, immigration, and civil legal services. Burrell has been a sought-after voice on racial justice and civil liberties at national conferences, in scholarly publications, and before legislative and administrative bodies. She brings to this role a rare combination of courtroom advocacy, systems leadership, and a personal connection to Georgia and its communities.
“We are thrilled that Michelle will be leading the ACLU of Georgia at a key moment when the fundamental pillars of democracy are on the line,” said Jack Kennedy, board president, ACLU of Georgia. “Michelle recognizes the important role Georgia plays in this effort and is committed to engaging all Georgians in the fight for civil liberties and civil rights. We know Michelle will continue to guide the ACLU of Georgia to expand and thrive.”
Burrell has a long history of providing access to legal representation, especially for women of color, by formerly serving as managing director for the Neighborhood Defender Service of Harlem, as well as working for the Brooklyn Defender Service. She has excelled in managing and expanding a large staff and organizational budget with significant fundraising success in her past roles.
“Georgia occupies a singular and unique place in the civil rights landscape. Decisions made here reverberate across the nation,” said Michelle Burrell. “I am deeply honored to join the ACLU of Georgia at this pivotal moment and to build upon its extraordinary legacy. Together with the staff, partners, and communities across this state, we will advance bold, coordinated strategies across litigation, policy, education, and grassroots mobilization because the fight for civil liberties and justice demands nothing less.”
Burrell will continue the legacy Young has developed by growing the organization, developing a deep bench of volunteers, and engaging coalition partners, elected officials, and ACLU members across the state.
Burrell will assume the role on July 13, 2026.
Stay Informed
Sign up to be the first to hear about how to take action.
By completing this form, I agree to receive occasional emails per the terms of the ACLU’s privacy statement.
By completing this form, I agree to receive occasional emails per the terms of the ACLU’s privacy statement.