Michelle Gifford[/caption]

Plano hired Michelle Gifford as the city's first wellness coordinator.  Gifford will be responsible for addressing the health needs of city employees by developing programs geared toward improving employee engagement, health and productivity while stabilizing health insurance costs.

Gifford is relocating from Indiana. Her first day on the job will be July 20.

“I am extremely happy to be in Plano and feel very fortunate to have earned the title of Wellness Coordinator,” said Gifford in a news release.  “My family is very excited to embark on this new journey and call Texas our new home.”

Gifford attended San Diego State University and holds a bachelor of science degree in kinesiology with an emphasis in health, fitness and nutrition. Gifford later attended Northwestern State University, where she earned a master of science degree in health and human performance with an emphasis in health promotion.

Gifford is also a certified health education specialist and was a certified personal trainer and group exercise instructor with the American Council on Exercise. She has worked in a wellness capacity with Marine Corps Community Services, Texas A&M University and Cerner Corporation.