Melissa is dedicated to working with volunteers, having worked as Patron Services Manager at The University of Akron E. J. Thomas Hall, recruiting, training and supervising over 130 volunteers and paid student ushers for over 15 years.
Before working “front of house,” she handled “back of house” duties scheduling artist transportation, accommodations, hospitality and guest programs. Four sold out Elderhostel programs were also an adventure in collaboration with UA faculty and many community partners. As Associate Educator at The Akron Art Museum, Melissa had the pleasure of working with the volunteer docents, scheduling public and school tours, assisting in creating teacher and gallery guides. She also ran the family artist demonstration workshops. Summer art festivals and created the first Arts Explorers Post in the nation through the Boy Scouts of America. A graduate of The College of Wooster with an additional M.Ed. from Kent State, she is thrilled to be back working with students of all ages and nationalities.
She has one adult son living in Akron who uses his chef talents to keep us all well fed while sheltering in place.
Melissa loves the positive energy and dedication the Project Learn staff, instructors and volunteers bring to the students; their success is why we are here.