Melissa has worked in the non-profit youth development sector since she was 16 years old. She joined Persist in 2021 as a Persist Coach after serving as Program Director at her alma mater, Tennessee State University.
 
Originally from Springfield, Massachusetts, Melissa moved to Nashville to attend Tennessee State University. After graduating, earning her MBA, and becoming certified in Job Development, she has dedicated herself to serving the Nashville community through various organizations, including Nashville Community Education, Job Corps, Oasis Center, and Safe Haven Family Shelter.
 
In addition to her non-profit work, Melissa is a social media specialist and online influencer, passionate about helping people tell their stories in a stylish way.