Michelle Kwan is a retired figure skater and current diplomat. In figure skating, she achieved significant success, including two Olympic medals, five World Championship titles, and a record-tying nine U.S. championships. Currently, she serves as the United States Ambassador to Belize.
1971: Michelle Kwan's Father Emigrates to California
In 1971, Danny Kwan, Michelle Kwan's father, emigrated from Hong Kong to California, laying the foundation for Michelle's life in the United States.
July 7, 1980: Birth of Michelle Kwan
On July 7, 1980, Michelle Wingshan Kwan was born in Torrance, California.
1991: Training with Frank Carroll
In 1991, Michelle Kwan and her sister Karen began training with renowned figure skating coach Frank Carroll in Lake Arrowhead, California, marking a pivotal step in Michelle's development.
1992: Reaching Senior-Level Figure Skating
At the age of 12, Michelle Kwan reached a significant milestone by passing the gold test, allowing her to compete at the senior level in figure skating.
1993: First Senior US Championships
In 1993, Michelle Kwan made her debut at the senior level of the US Figure Skating Championships, finishing in sixth place.
1994: Transition to Homeschooling
In 1994, Michelle Kwan transitioned from traditional schooling to homeschooling while in the 8th grade to focus on her figure skating aspirations.
1994: Wins First "Readers' Choice Figure Skater of the Year" Award
Michelle Kwan earned Skating magazine's "Readers' Choice Figure Skater of the Year" award for the first time in 1994.
1994: Second Place at US Championships and Olympic Alternate
Michelle Kwan placed second at the US Championships but was named an alternate for the 1994 Olympics due to the controversy surrounding Tonya Harding and Nancy Kerrigan.
1994: World Junior Championship Win
Michelle Kwan's talent shone brightly in 1994 when she won the World Junior Championships, establishing herself as a rising star.
1995: Skate America Triumph
In 1995, Michelle Kwan debuted a new free skate program at Skate America, marked by its technical difficulty and artistry. She successfully executed seven triple jumps, including two triple Lutz jumps, one in combination. Her intricate steps, original spin positions, increased speed, and improved poise were highlighted. Despite facing strong competition with superior flow and jump height, Kwan's intricate choreography and emotional depth won her the competition.
1995: Sole Responsibility at World Championships
Michelle Kwan carried the weight of securing two entries for the US at the 1995 World Championships, ultimately finishing eighth after a challenging competition.
1995: A Significant Year in Perspective
The year 1995 held particular significance for Michelle Kwan as it was the last time she had not secured a medal at an international competition until her performance at the 2005 World Championship.
1995: Maturing Style and Technical Improvements
During the 1995 season, Michelle Kwan showcased a more mature style in her skating, using music from "Salome's Dance" and "The Dance of the Seven Veils," and improved her technical skills.
1995: Second Place at US Championships and Fourth Place at Worlds
Despite a strong performance at the 1995 World Championships, including landing all seven of her triple jumps, Michelle Kwan finished fourth overall, with Nicole Bobek placing third.
1995: The Start of a Winning Streak
Beginning in the fall of 1995, Michelle Kwan embarked on a winning streak that lasted for over a year, concluding in the fall of 1996. During this period, she established herself as a dominant force in women's figure skating, showcasing remarkable consistency and well-rounded skills. Kwan's artistry and captivating performances earned her legendary status as she captivated audiences with her grace, musicality, and dramatic storytelling on ice.
1996: Double Victory: U.S. and World Championships
Michelle Kwan achieved a remarkable feat in 1996 by winning both the U.S. Championships and the World Championships. In a close contest at the World Championships, she narrowly defeated defending champion Chen Lu, with both skaters receiving two perfect 6.0s for their free skate presentations. This victory made her the third youngest figure skater to hold both prestigious titles.
1996: First World and US Championship Titles
Michelle Kwan achieved a significant milestone in 1996 by winning both the World Championship and her first US Championship title in figure skating.
1996: Wins Second "Readers' Choice Figure Skater of the Year" Award
Michelle Kwan wins her second "Readers' Choice Figure Skater of the Year" award from Skating magazine in 1996.
1996: Multiple World and US Championship Wins
Michelle Kwan's exceptional talent and dedication led to numerous victories, including five World Championships and nine US Championships between 1996 and 2003, showcasing her dominance in figure skating.
1996: Debut of Signature Change of Edge Spiral
Michelle Kwan's signature change of edge spiral debuted during the 1996-1997 season.
1996: New Programs and Emerging Challenges
During the 1996-1997 season, Michelle Kwan introduced new programs, skating to "Dream of Desdemona" for her short program and "Taj Mahal" for her free skate. However, this season brought challenges as she experienced a growth spurt that affected her jump balance. Additionally, she faced difficulties adjusting to new skating boots due to an endorsement contract.
1997: Rise to Prominence and Financial Success
By 1997, Michelle Kwan was one of America's most popular athletes, securing major endorsements and earning high income from appearances and prize money.
1997: National and International Setbacks
The 1997 U.S. Nationals and World Championships presented setbacks for Michelle Kwan. At Nationals, despite winning the short program, a fall and subsequent errors in her free skate resulted in a loss to Tara Lipinski. Three weeks later, at the Champion Series Final, she again faced defeat against Lipinski. At the World Championships, a flawed jump combination in the short program placed Kwan fourth, ultimately leading to a second-place finish behind Lipinski. Despite delivering a strong free skate performance, she couldn't surpass Lipinski's overall score.
1997: Olympic Rivalry and Program Shift
The 1997-98 Olympic season saw intense media focus on the rivalry between Michelle Kwan and Tara Lipinski. Departing from previous dramatic narratives, Kwan's programs emphasized sophistication and pure skating, reflecting a change of pace. She chose Rachmaninoff's piano music for her short program and William Alwyn's "Lyra Angelica" concerto for her free skate, both programs radiating joy.
1998: A New Season and Strategic Choices
In the 1998-99 season, Michelle Kwan opted for a different path, bypassing the fall Grand Prix series. Instead, she participated in a series of televised pro-am events. Her competitive programs that season were "Fate of Carmen" for the short program and "Lamento D'Ariane" for the free skate.
1998: Publishes Autobiography, "Heart of a Champion"
Scholastic published Michelle Kwan's autobiography, "Heart of a Champion," in 1998.
1998: Triumphs and a Setback on the Road to the Olympics
Michelle Kwan started the 1998 Olympic season strong, winning both Skate America and Skate Canada. Her programs, focused on sophistication and pure skating, earned praise. However, a stress fracture in her foot forced her withdrawal from the Champions Series Final, posing a significant challenge leading up to the Olympics. Despite this setback, Kwan, with her signature grace and artistry, secured the U.S. National title, showcasing her resilience and determination.
1998: Revival of the Charlotte Spiral
Michelle Kwan revived the Charlotte spiral during the 1998-1999 figure skating season. This challenging move, innovated by Charlotte Oelschlägel, hadn't been performed in years.
1998: High School Graduation and College Enrollment
Michelle Kwan graduated from Rim of the World High School in 1998 and subsequently enrolled at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) for a year.
1998: Olympic Silver Medalist and World Champion
In 1998, Michelle Kwan won an Olympic silver medal in figure skating at the Nagano Games. This same year, she also became a World Champion.
1998: Second World Championship and Olympic Silver Medal
In 1998, Michelle Kwan earned her second World Championship title and an Olympic silver medal, solidifying her place among the sport's elite.
1998: Wins Third "Readers' Choice Figure Skater of the Year" Award
For the third time, Michelle Kwan is named "Readers' Choice Figure Skater of the Year" by Skating magazine in 1998.
1998: Olympic Silver and Continued Success
At the 1998 Nagano Olympics, Michelle Kwan was a co-favorite with Tara Lipinski. She delivered a graceful short program, securing first place. Despite a clean free skate with seven triples, she was surpassed by Lipinski, who executed a more technically demanding program. Kwan earned the silver medal, while Lipinski won gold. Following the Olympics, Kwan triumphed at the World Championships in Minneapolis after Lipinski and Chen's retirement, solidifying her position as a top figure skater.
1998: Post-Olympic Triumph and Transition
After the 1998 Olympics, Michelle Kwan continued her competitive journey, while Tara Lipinski and Chen Lu announced their retirement from competitive skating. Kwan went on to secure victory at the 1998 World Championships in Minneapolis, further solidifying her legacy as a dominant force in the sport.
1998: Stars in "Reflections on Ice"
In 1998, Michelle Kwan starred in "Reflections on Ice," a prime-time skating special aired on ABC. The special was an ice skating adaptation of Disney's Mulan.
1999: Featured in "Michelle Kwan Figure Skating" Computer Game
Electronic Arts released "Michelle Kwan Figure Skating," a computer game featuring the figure skater, in 1999.
1999: Wins Fourth "Readers' Choice Figure Skater of the Year" Award
Michelle Kwan is awarded Skating Magazine's "Readers' Choice Figure Skater of the Year" award for the fourth time in 1999.
1999: National Victory and World Championship Challenge
Michelle Kwan secured her third national title at the 1999 U.S. Championships, facing a less competitive field. However, she faced challenges at the 1999 World Championships, where she delivered a performance that fell short of her best, resulting in a second-place finish behind Maria Butyrskaya of Russia.
1999: Signs 8-Book Deal with Disney Publishing Worldwide
Michelle Kwan signed an 8-book deal with Disney Publishing Worldwide in 1999. The deal included an inspirational book for children titled "The Winning Attitude: What it Takes to be a Champion" and a series of fictional skating books called "Michelle Kwan presents Skating Dreams," written by Nola Thacker.
1999: Stars in "Michelle Kwan Skates to Disney's Greatest Hits"
Michelle Kwan starred in "Michelle Kwan Skates to Disney's Greatest Hits" in 1999. The skating special, which aired on ABC, featured performances set to music from popular Disney films.
2000: Partners with Chevrolet
Michelle Kwan signed a multi-year endorsement deal with Chevrolet in 2000, valued at over $1 million. This partnership also led to the establishment of the Chevrolet/Michelle Kwan R.E.W.A.R.D.S. Scholarship program.
2000: Third World Championship Title
Michelle Kwan's pursuit of excellence continued with her third World Championship title in 2000, demonstrating her consistency and skill.
2000: Controversial Win and World Championship Redemption
The 2000 U.S. Nationals saw Michelle Kwan's victory met with controversy due to her program's planned difficulty level and a fall on a jump element. Despite this, she secured third place in the short program. Her exceptional free skate performance, however, earned her the title. At the World Championships, Kwan again faced a challenging short program, placing third. However, her exceptional free skate, landing seven triple jumps, including a challenging combination, earned her first place in the segment and the overall title, marking a remarkable comeback.
2000: World Champion
Michelle Kwan continued her winning streak by securing the World Championship title in figure skating in 2000.
2000: Triple Toe-Triple Toe Combination at World Championship
At the 2000 World Championships, Michelle Kwan successfully executed the triple toe-triple toe combination, contributing to her victory.
2000: Collaboration with Vera Wang Begins
In 2000, Michelle Kwan began a significant collaboration with renowned designer Vera Wang for her skating costumes, marking a new era in her career.
2001: World Champion
Michelle Kwan once again dominated the world of figure skating by clinching the World Championship title in 2001.
2001: Parting Ways with Coach Carroll
Shortly before the 2001 Skate America competition, Michelle Kwan made the significant decision to end her coaching relationship with Carroll.
2001: Triple Toe-Triple Toe Combination at World Championship
Michelle Kwan once again landed the challenging triple toe-triple toe combination at the 2001 World Championship, adding to her streak of successful executions in competition. This contributed to her winning the championship that year.
2001: Stars in "Princess on Ice"
Michelle Kwan starred in "Princess on Ice" in 2001. The prime-time skating special, which aired on ABC, included performances by the boy band O-Town and the country music group SHeDAISY.
2001: Fourth World Championship Title
Michelle Kwan achieved her fourth World Championship title in 2001, cementing her status as a dominant force in figure skating.
2001: Receives the James E. Sullivan Award
In 2001, Michelle Kwan was granted the James E. Sullivan Award, which recognizes the top amateur athlete in America. This made her the first figure skater to win since Dick Button in 1949.
2001: Wins Fifth "Readers' Choice Figure Skater of the Year" Award
In 2001, Michelle Kwan received the "Readers' Choice Figure Skater of the Year" award from Skating magazine for the fifth time.
2001: National Championship and World Championship Performances
In 2001, Kwan secured victory at the national championships, earning unanimous top scores. However, at the World Championships, she secured second place behind Slutskaya in the short program before claiming the overall title with her impressive "Song of the Black Swan" free skate performance, which included seven triples.
2002: Navigating Challenges and the 2002 Olympics
In 2002, Michelle Kwan faced public scrutiny following her coaching change and season inconsistencies. Despite this, she triumphed at the U.S. Championships in Los Angeles, securing her place on the Olympic team. At the Olympics, she faced setbacks in the free skate, ultimately winning the bronze medal. She ended the season with a silver medal at the World Championships.
2002: Olympic Bronze Medal at the Salt Lake City Games
Michelle Kwan added another Olympic medal to her collection with a bronze at the 2002 Salt Lake City Games, showcasing her resilience and sportsmanship.
2002: New Coaching and Selective Competition
Michelle Kwan began working with coach Scott Williams in the summer of 2002 and opted for a more selective approach to competitions, participating in fewer Grand Prix events.
2002: Olympic Bronze Medalist
Michelle Kwan secured an Olympic bronze medal in figure skating at the Salt Lake City Games in 2002.
2002: Becomes Disney Spokeswoman
Michelle Kwan was named a "celebrity representative" and spokeswoman for The Walt Disney Company in 2002, signing a three-year deal reportedly worth $1 million annually.
2002: Origin of a Persistent Injury
Michelle Kwan's hip injury, which she addressed surgically in 2006, had its roots in 2002, indicating a persistent challenge throughout a significant portion of her career.
2003: Wins Seventh "Readers' Choice Figure Skater of the Year" Award and Award Renamed in Her Honor
Michelle Kwan wins Skating magazine's "Readers' Choice Figure Skater of the Year" award for an unprecedented seventh time. In recognition of her accomplishment, the United States Figure Skating Association, which publishes Skating magazine, renamed the award the "Michelle Kwan Trophy." Michelle Kwan was no longer eligible to receive the award, despite still competing professionally.
2003: Named USOC "Sportswoman of the Year"
Michelle Kwan was named "Sportswoman of the Year" in 2003 by the United States Olympic Committee. She was the fifth figure skater to ever receive this honor.
2003: World Champion
Michelle Kwan solidified her dominance in figure skating with another World Championship title in 2003.
2003: Technical Enhancements and a Fourth-Place Finish
In the fall of 2003, Michelle Kwan brought on Rafael Arutyunyan as her coach to refine her technique and enhance the difficulty of her programs. Despite delivering a clean performance with five triples at the 2004 World Championships, she placed fourth after a time penalty in the short program.
2003: Fifth and Final World Championship Title
In 2003, Michelle Kwan claimed her fifth and final World Championship title, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
2003: Dominating the Competitive Season and Reclaiming the World Title
In the 2002-2003 season, Kwan demonstrated her dominance by winning every competition she entered, including the U.S. Championships and the World Championships, where she reclaimed her title.
2004: Lasting Impression at the World Championships
Despite facing challenges at the 2004 World Championships, Michelle Kwan's performance in the free skate, which included five triples, left a lasting impact as she received the final 6.0 marks awarded at the competition.
2004: Debut of Triple Flip-Double Toe-Double Loop Combination
In the 2004-2005 season, Michelle Kwan introduced a new element to her routines: the triple flip-double toe-double loop combination.
2004: Limited Grand Prix Participation
Michelle Kwan chose not to participate in Grand Prix events during the 2003 and 2004 seasons, opting out of the competitions that were implementing a new judging system.
2004: New Programs and a Ninth U.S. Championship Title
Michelle Kwan unveiled new programs for the 2004-2005 season, including "Boléro" for her long program and "Adagio" for her short program. She went on to win her ninth U.S. Championship title, tying the record set by Maribel Vinson-Owen.
December 2005: Injury and Uncertainties
In December 2005, Michelle Kwan experienced an abdominal injury that created uncertainty surrounding her participation in upcoming competitions.
2005: Kwan Family Opens EastWest Ice Palace
The Kwan family opened the EastWest Ice Palace in Artesia, California, in 2005. The rink features skating memorabilia, including many of Michelle Kwan's medals.
2005: Continued Success and Endorsements
Michelle Kwan maintained her position as a top athlete and high earner in figure skating, benefiting from endorsements and top rankings in appearance fees.
2005: Adapting to a New Judging System and Facing Setbacks
The 2005 World Championship marked Michelle Kwan's first competition under the ISU Judging System. She faced difficulties throughout the competition, including a fall and a two-footed landing, resulting in a fourth-place finish. It was her first time failing to medal at an international competition since 1995.
2005: Record-Breaking Ninth US Championship Title
Michelle Kwan made history in 2005 by winning her ninth US Championship title, a record that solidified her legacy as one of the greatest American figure skaters.
2005: Ninth US Championship Title
In 2005, Michelle Kwan cemented her legacy in US figure skating by winning her ninth US Championship title.
January 4, 2006: Withdrawing from Championships and Pursuing an Olympic Petition
Michelle Kwan withdrew from the U.S. Figure Skating Championships due to an abdominal injury. Determined to compete in the Olympics, she filed a petition for a medical waiver with the USFSA.
January 14, 2006: Olympic Petition Approval and Stipulations
Following the U.S. ladies' figure skating event, the USFSA's International Committee made the decision to approve Kwan's petition for the 2006 Olympic team, contingent upon her demonstrating her physical and competitive readiness.
February 12, 2006: Withdrawing from the Turin Olympics
On February 12, 2006, Michelle Kwan made the difficult decision to withdraw from the Turin Olympics due to a new groin injury. Her replacement was Emily Hughes, who had secured third place at the U.S. Championships.
August 2006: Addressing a Recurring Injury
In August 2006, Michelle Kwan underwent arthroscopic surgery to repair a torn labrum in her right hip, an injury that had been affecting her since 2002. The surgery brought her relief from pain that had persisted for four years.
November 9, 2006: Appointed as Public Diplomacy Ambassador
On November 9, 2006, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice appointed Michelle Kwan as a public diplomacy ambassador. This role involved representing American values globally, particularly to young people and sports enthusiasts.
2006: Renewed Disney Partnership
Michelle Kwan's endorsement deal with The Walt Disney Company was renewed and expanded in 2006.
2006: Absence from Competition
Michelle Kwan did not participate in any competitions during the 2006-2007 figure skating season, marking a period of rest and recovery.
2006: Transfer to the University of Denver
Michelle Kwan experienced a major life shift in 2006 when she transferred to the University of Denver, embracing full-time studies after years of focusing on skating.
June 2007: Travels to Russia as Public Diplomacy Envoy
Continuing her work as a public diplomacy envoy, Michelle Kwan traveled to Russia in June 2007.
October 2007: Considering Future Olympic Participation
In October 2007, Michelle Kwan revealed that she would make a decision in 2009 regarding her potential participation in the 2010 Winter Olympics.
2007: First Trip as Public Diplomacy Ambassador to China
In January of 2007, Michelle Kwan embarked on her first trip to China as a public diplomacy ambassador.
2007: Absence from Competition
Michelle Kwan did not participate in any competitions during the 2006-2007 figure skating season, marking a period of rest and recovery.
March 2008: Travels to Argentina as Public Diplomacy Envoy
In March 2008, Michelle Kwan traveled to Argentina as part of her duties as a public diplomacy envoy.
2008: Joins Committee of 100
Michelle Kwan became a member of the Chinese-American organization, Committee of 100, in 2008.
January 2009: Appointed to President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports
In January 2009, George W. Bush appointed Michelle Kwan to the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. She continued serving on the council during the Obama administration.
February 2009: Travels to Ukraine as Public Diplomacy Envoy
Michelle Kwan traveled to Ukraine as a public diplomacy envoy in February 2009.
June 2009: Bachelor's Degree in International Studies
Michelle Kwan graduated from the University of Denver's Josef Korbel School of International Studies in June 2009 with a bachelor's degree, marking an important academic achievement.
August 2009: Ice All Stars Performance
In August 2009, Michelle Kwan returned to the ice after several years for Ice All Stars in Seoul. The show was headlined by Yuna Kim, a South Korean world champion figure skater who considered Kwan her idol.
2009: Shifting Focus to Education and Public Service
Michelle Kwan made the decision to prioritize her education and public service endeavors instead of pursuing a comeback for the 2010 Winter Olympics. She graduated from the University of Denver and expressed her desire to further her education.
January 2010: Travels to South Korea as Public Diplomacy Envoy
In January 2010, Michelle Kwan made a trip to South Korea as a public diplomacy envoy.
February 17, 2010: Pursuing Graduate Studies and Embracing New Roles
On February 17, 2010, Michelle Kwan shared that she was pursuing graduate studies at Tufts University's Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy while continuing her work as a Public Diplomacy Envoy. She also took on the role of commentator for Good Morning America at the 2010 Winter Olympics, showcasing her versatility and ongoing engagement with the sport.
May 8, 2010: Honorary Doctorate from Southern Vermont College
Michelle Kwan was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Southern Vermont College on May 8, 2010, recognizing her achievements beyond the world of figure skating.
December 2010: Opening Ceremony Performance at Marina Bay Sands
Michelle Kwan was the guest of honor at the opening ceremony of a new synthetic skating rink at the Marina Bay Sands resort in Singapore in December 2010. She marked the occasion with a performance of "Winter Song," a routine she choreographed with her sister.
2010: The Road Not Taken
Despite considering a return to competitive figure skating, Michelle Kwan ultimately decided against participating in the 2010 Winter Olympics, marking a significant turning point in her career.
2010: Voices Character in "Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!" Series Finale
Michelle Kwan lent her voice to a fictionalized version of herself, Michelle Kwanzleberry, in the 2010 series finale of the animated show "Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!"
January 2011: Travels to Singapore as Public Diplomacy Envoy
Michelle Kwan traveled to Singapore in January 2011 as a public diplomacy envoy.
April 2011: Meets Clay Pell
Michelle Kwan and Clay Pell first met in April 2011.
April 15, 2011: Becomes Advisor to U.S.-China Women's Leadership Exchange and Dialogue
Michelle Kwan's appointment as an advisor to the U.S.-China Women's Leadership Exchange and Dialogue (Women-LEAD) was announced on April 15, 2011.
2011: Joins Special Olympics Board of Directors
In 2011, Michelle Kwan was appointed to the board of directors for the Special Olympics, further solidifying her commitment to the organization.
2011: Master's Degree in International Relations
Michelle Kwan completed her master's degree in international relations from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University in 2011, furthering her education in international affairs.
September 2012: Announces Engagement to Clay Pell
Michelle Kwan announced her engagement to Clay Pell in September 2012.
December 2012: Appointed as Senior Advisor for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs
Michelle Kwan accepted the position of Senior Advisor for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs in the State Department in December 2012.
January 19, 2013: Marries Clay Pell
Michelle Kwan married Clay Pell, an American lawyer and former White House official, on January 19, 2013, in Providence, Rhode Island.
February 2014: Clay Pell Runs for Governor
Clay Pell, Michelle Kwan's husband, announced his candidacy for Governor of Rhode Island in February 2014. His bid was unsuccessful.
2014: Joins Fox Sports 1 for Winter Olympics Broadcast
Michelle Kwan joined Fox Sports 1 in 2014 to contribute to their Winter Olympics broadcast.
June 2015: Supports Hillary Clinton's Presidential Campaign
In June 2015, Michelle Kwan announced her support for Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign, working on outreach efforts from Clinton's headquarters.
2016: Supports Hillary Clinton's Campaign
Michelle Kwan joined Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential campaign as an outreach coordinator.
March 2017: Clay Pell Files for Divorce
Clay Pell filed for divorce from Michelle Kwan in March 2017 in California.
April 2017: Michelle Kwan Files for Divorce
Michelle Kwan filed for divorce from Clay Pell in April 2017 in Rhode Island, citing irreconcilable differences.
May 2021: Announces "Recipe for Change"
In May 2021, Michelle Kwan's involvement as executive producer for the YouTube special "Recipe for Change" was announced.
June 16, 2021: "Recipe for Change" Premieres
The YouTube special "Recipe for Change," executive produced by Michelle Kwan, premiered on June 16, 2021. The show aimed to celebrate Asian and Pacific Islander culture while addressing acts of hate against the community.
January 5, 2022: Becomes a Mother
On January 5, 2022, Michelle Kwan announced the birth of her daughter.
January 7, 2022: Formally Nominated as Ambassador to Belize
On January 7, 2022, Michelle Kwan's nomination for United States ambassador to Belize was formalized.
May 18, 2022: Nomination Hearings Held
Michelle Kwan's nomination hearing with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee occurred on May 18, 2022.
June 9, 2022: Nomination Reported Favorably by Committee
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee gave a favorable report on Michelle Kwan's nomination on June 9, 2022.
September 29, 2022: Senate Confirmation as US Ambassador
On September 29, 2022, the Senate confirmed Michelle Kwan as the US Ambassador to Belize, marking a significant step in her political career.
October 10, 2022: Sworn in as Ambassador to Belize
Michelle Kwan was sworn in as the United States ambassador to Belize on October 10, 2022, marking a significant career milestone.
December 5, 2022: Presents Credentials as Ambassador to Belize
Michelle Kwan formally presented her credentials to the Governor-General of Belize, Dame Froyla Tzalam, on December 5, 2022, solidifying her role as the U.S. ambassador. She is the first Asian American woman to hold this position.