Salinas, CA – August 18, 2025 – The Steinbeck House is proud to announce the appointment of Michelle Fabian as its first Administrative Manager, marking a new chapter in the continued preservation and celebration of John Steinbeck’s legacy.

In this newly created role, Michelle will oversee the daily operations of the historic house’s restaurant, and gift shop/bookstore. She will be instrumental in ensuring exceptional customer service, maintaining smooth operational efficiency, and leading the volunteer program—a cornerstone of the house’s community spirit.

Michelle brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Steinbeck House. A graduate of California State University, Monterey Bay, and San Jose State University, she has served since 2018 as the Executive Director of the American Heritage Museum in Palo Alto, California. In addition to her administrative expertise, Michelle is a passionate educator and currently serves as an adjunct professor of History at Monterey Peninsula College.

As Administrative House Manager, Michelle will also help spearhead grant writing and fundraising initiatives, vital to sustaining the legacy and mission of the Steinbeck House for future generations.

“I am honored to join the Steinbeck House team and look forward to working closely with community members and local organizations,” said Michelle Fabian. “Together, we will continue to preserve and share the remarkable history of John Steinbeck’s birthplace.”

The Salinas Valley Guild welcomes Michelle with great enthusiasm and invites the community to join us in celebrating this exciting new era.

About The Steinbeck House: 

Located in Salinas, California, the Steinbeck House is the birthplace and childhood home of Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck. The beautifully restored Queen Anne-style Victorian operates with volunteers as a restaurant, bookshop, and cultural landmark dedicated to preserving the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential writers.