Named a PRWeek “Woman to Watch,” Melissa is an enthusiastic and results-driven communications leader with two decades of experience working with nonprofit organizations. Melissa currently serves as a Senior Vice President at Interdependence Public Relations.

As a mother, avid reader, and published children’s book author, Melissa is extremely passionate about fostering literacy among children of all ages and ensuring access for all, regardless of socioeconomic background and status. Melissa’s not-so-guilty pleasure as a kid was reading the Sweet Valley book series—a love that she has been able to pass along to her two daughters, Alice and Cecelia, who are also devoted readers and budding writers.

Prior to her agency experience, Melissa worked as an on-air television news reporter for local Fox and ABC affiliate stations in Central Pennsylvania. As a published mental health advocate and thought leader, Melissa also works to elevate awareness and fight stigma against mental health issues.

In her spare time, Melissa writes song lyrics and currently has seven songs that were mastered at Abbey Road Studios and are streaming globally.