Rooted in Resilience: Dr. Michele Rice-Kirkwood’s Mission to Build Legacy and Voice in Atlanta

In the heart of Atlanta’s ever-evolving Black business landscape stands a woman whose story bridges family legacy, entrepreneurial impact, and the written word. Dr. Michele Rice-Kirkwood, a second-generation McDonald’s franchisee turned resilience coach and author, has not only built businesses—but restored hope, mentored youth, and sparked transformation for over three decades.

From the moment she stepped into the world of entrepreneurship, Dr. Rice-Kirkwood believed in something bigger than profit margins. Her work as CEO of Rice Enterprises LLC—an organization that once operated 16 McDonald’s restaurants and employed over 1,000 people annually—was rooted in community empowerment. “I grew up watching my parents use business to uplift others. I saw firsthand that a restaurant could be a second chance, a launchpad, or a safe space,” she shares.

That belief became a guiding force through grief and growth. When she unexpectedly lost her father, Dr. Rice-Kirkwood found herself at the helm of her family’s legacy, managing not just business operations, but navigating complex emotions and responsibilities. “There were days I doubted myself. But I knew the only way to honor my father’s legacy was to keep building—through faith, strategy, and heart.” Through those challenges, she cultivated a leadership style grounded in principle and personal connection.

Her restaurants weren’t just jobs—they were ecosystems of mentorship and development. Through scholarships, professional etiquette training, and financial literacy programs created in partnership with organizations like Learn & Earn and Partner4Work, Dr. Rice-Kirkwood helped shape the futures of countless young Atlantans. Her work echoes The Atlanta Voice’s core truth: “A people without a voice cannot be heard.” Dr. Rice-Kirkwood ensured her employees didn’t just have a voice—they had opportunity.

In 2024, Dr. Rice-Kirkwood launched Resilient By Design, a coaching and consulting firm designed to help other entrepreneurs—and especially Black business owners—navigate burnout, family transitions, and purpose realignment. “I wanted to take everything I’ve learned and offer a blueprint for others. This work is about helping people rewrite their narratives and lead with intention.”

Her forthcoming book will reflect that same mission—offering a candid, compassionate look at leadership, grief, and personal reinvention. It’s a natural evolution for a woman who has always used her voice to uplift others.

When asked what drives her, Dr. Rice-Kirkwood reflects on her mentors—chiefly her parents—who modeled grace, faith, and service. “They taught me that business can be a ministry,” she says. “And I’ve taken that to heart. I don’t just want to be successful—I want to be significant.”

To the next generation of Black leaders, she offers this advice: “You don’t have to be perfect to lead. You just have to care deeply, keep learning, and never forget where you come from. The world needs your voice.”

In Atlanta—a city where culture, commerce, and community intersect—Dr. Michele Rice-Kirkwood is helping shape a new legacy of Black leadership. Through her coaching, authorship, and unwavering commitment to service, she reminds us that resilience isn’t just about surviving hardship. It’s about rising with purpose—and taking others with you.

About Dr. Michele Rice-Kirkwood

Dr. Michele Rice-Kirkwood is a seasoned entrepreneur, certified resilience coach, and author with over 30 years of experience in business and community leadership. As the former CEO of Rice Enterprises LLC, she led one of the largest minority-owned businesses in Western Pennsylvania, operating 16 McDonald’s franchises and employing over 1,000 people. Her work empowered underserved communities through mentorship, scholarships, and youth employment programs. In 2024, she founded Resilient By Design, a coaching firm that supports entrepreneurs, family businesses, and leaders in transition. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Dr. Rice-Kirkwood is also Vice President of THAW (Transforming the Health of African American Women), where she champions mental and emotional wellness for Black women. Her journey exemplifies purpose-driven leadership and a deep commitment to building legacy through service, voice, and resilience.