Inducted: 2016

BS in Accounting, 1975

Charles M. Sonsteby, a native of Ashtabula, Ohio, is Vice Chairman of The Michaels Companies, Inc. Founded in 1983, Michaels Stores, based in Irving, Texas, is the largest arts and crafts retailer in North America. Sonsteby joined Michaels as Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer of The Michaels Companies, Inc. and Michaels Stores, Inc. in October 2010. 

Sonsteby earned his B.S. in accounting at the University of Kentucky, and serves as a member of the Gatton College Dean’s Advisory Council. Prior to joining Michaels, he served as the Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President at Brinker International Inc., owner of Chili’s and Maggiano’s Little Italy restaurants. He joined Brinker in March 1990 as Director of Tax, Treasury and Risk Management departments and held roles in accounting, tax, treasury and investor relations.