Biography

A proud first-generation college student and native Rhode Islander, Melissa earned both her undergraduate degree in Psychology and her master’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Rhode Island.

Melissa pursued her interests in well-being, mental health, and student development through a professional role in residential treatment and later focused on leadership development at Texas Christian University’s (TCU) Leadership Center.

While at TCU, she served as an educator, student organization advisor, and Gallup-certified strengths-based consultant and coach advocating for a campus-wide, strengths-based approach to student leadership training and professional development. Returning to URI in 2006, Melissa served in progressive leadership roles directing the Center for Student Leadership Development and the minor in Leadership Studies, while also collaboratively engaging in efforts to enhance assessment, student success, academic partnerships, and student engagement across the university. 

With a foundation in leadership development and public service, Melissa committed to earning graduate certifications in both human resources and learning and development, becoming a certified professional coach, and proudly completed Leadership Rhode Island’s core community leadership program in 2024 (Upsilon II).

As the current Assistant Vice President for Student Engagement and Director of the Memorial Union, Melissa is thrilled for the opportunity to serve the URI community and enhance campus-wide engagement, leading the efforts of the Student Involvement Office, the Center for Student Leadership Development, and Greek Life.