For the past 17 years, Melissa has dedicated her career to strengthening the East Valley community through her work at United Food Bank—a Mesa‑based organization providing food to families across Arizona. Throughout her tenure, she has helped transform the organization from being relatively unknown into a highly visible presence in the community. Her service has been recognized by being named United Food Bank’s only employee to receive the communities accredited “Hunger Hero” award.

Melissa is passionate about building meaningful connections with individuals, local businesses, and community organizations to create opportunities for growth, partnership, and long‑term impact. She thrives on bringing people together and helping them discover how much more can be accomplished when collaboration is intentional and community‑driven.

A creative thinker at heart, Melissa is energized by developing ideas that go beyond the ordinary. She enjoys launching unique community initiatives, forging partnerships that make a measurable difference, and bringing fresh perspectives to long‑standing challenges. Her work is grounded in the belief that when businesses and nonprofits are supported and empowered, every member of the community has a greater chance to flourish.

Her commitment to service extends well beyond her professional role. Melissa has proudly served as the Mesa Chamber Ambassador Chair for seven years and was honored as the Mesa Chamber Ambassador of the Year in 2019. She was also recognized as the Tempe Chamber Volunteer of the Year in 2023 and received the Gilbert Chamber’s Gilbert for Good Award in 2016. In addition, she is a graduate of the Mesa Leadership Class of 2019, a program that deepened her understanding of civic engagement and strengthened her commitment to community leadership. With deep roots in Arizona and a passion for service, Melissa is driven every day by the opportunity to help build a stronger, more connected, and more resilient community for all.