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 such as programming, scheduling, and hospitality. She enjoyed coordinating with community partners, particularly for their Elderhostel programs. In addition to her E. J. Thomas duties, Melissa was also a continuing education coordinator for the College of Fine and Applied Arts. Previously, as an Associate Educator at The Akron Art Museum, Melissa had the pleasure of working with the volunteer docents and engaging the community through local and global art exhibits. 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 keeps her son's memory alive while preparing dishes he loved as a chef in Akron.
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.