WASHINGTON--Katie McCormick Lelyveld, First Lady Michelle Obama's Press Secretary, is stepping down on May 27 to return to Chicago.

McCormick Lelyveld grew up in Lincoln Park, is a product of Chicago's Latin School, Saint Ignatius College Prep '97 and in D.C., Georgetown University '01.

Mrs. Obama said in a statement released Friday, "Katie has been with me since the very beginning and I've relied on her intelligence, grace, quick wit, humor and friendship through the campaign and at the White House. I will always be grateful for her hard work and dedication," said First Lady Michelle Obama. "She will be missed, but I know she will do great things in Chicago."

McCormick Lelyveld was Mrs. Obama's second hire and served as the First Lady's Communications Director during the 2008 Presidential campaign.

She has not confirmed her next steps but told me this morning she is "excited about the possibilities." She said she will not be joining the Obama 2012 re-election campaign.