Michele Bakin has been a part of the Community Markets Inc. team since June 2026. Michele was born and raised in West Virginia; and graduated from Shepherd University in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Resource Management. Living on a homestead since she was seven years old, Michele is passionate about helping small farmers find new avenues for marketing products. She is a firm believer in community, and the mutual support and security found in knowing the source for one’s food and, as a farmer, knowing the destination of your goods. Michele brings many years of farming experience and a passion for economic development to CMI, and is excited to work towards building strong relationships between farmers and their communities.