Her Story
About Melissa
I advocate for several different groups of people. One thing I do is educational advocacy for children who need help with their rights as far as IEPs, 504s, tribunal hearings. My degree is in education, middle school education, so I taught school for 10 years. I go to IEP meetings to help parents have a voice. I also help with restorative justice for people in the criminal justice system. I work at a nonprofit to help survivors of domestic violence. My main job is to supervise visits for people who can't see their kids without a court-ordered chaperone. I was a probation officer for 10 years.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Melissa
01What do you attribute your success to?
I was raised by two really wonderful parents who taught me right from wrong, and gave me strong roles and values.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
If you do what you love, you never have to work a day in your life. I enjoy what I do, so I don't feel like I'm working.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Go after what their dreams are, and don't give up. Don't sell yourself short.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
People thinking we're biased in court cases. Scheduling to fit everybody in and still have a personal life is hard. Opportunities are plenty of work, may need to hire more people.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I don't like to do what's easy. I like to do what's right. Even if it takes longer, you just have to do the right thing because it's going to be the best thing in the long run.
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