Melissa Morris, MBA

Melissa Morris is a dynamic marketing and business development professional with more than 13 years of experience driving growth, building brands, and creating meaningful connections across healthcare, food and beverage, education, and media. A results-oriented leader, Melissa combines strategic thinking, creativity, and relationship-building to develop impactful marketing initiatives that strengthen organizations and inspire communities.

Currently serving as a Business Development Associate within healthcare marketing, Melissa supports strategic growth initiatives through outreach, partnership development, and relationship-building efforts that enhance visibility and engagement. In addition, she leads marketing and new business development efforts for Sam’s Caribbean Marketplace, the family-owned business founded by her father in 1993. Through her leadership, Melissa continues to expand the brand’s presence, strengthen customer relationships, and honor the entrepreneurial foundation upon which the business was built.

Melissa’s expertise spans digital marketing, business-to-business and business-to-consumer marketing strategies, brand development, business development, and community outreach. She is passionate about using marketing as a tool to connect people, elevate organizations, and create lasting impact.

Beyond her professional work, Melissa is deeply committed to education and empowering future leaders. As an Adjunct Professor of Business at Marymount Manhattan College, she brings real-world industry experience into the classroom through experiential learning, mentorship, and career development. Melissa believes in preparing students not only with business knowledge, but also with the confidence, creativity, and critical thinking skills needed to succeed in today’s evolving professional landscape.

Melissa’s career foundation was shaped by her early experience as a production intern at WABC-TV, where she developed a strong appreciation for collaboration, communication, and operational excellence in fast-paced environments. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication from St. Francis College and completed her Master of Business Administration in Marketing from Molloy University. Her academic achievements have been recognized through membership in the Delta Epsilon Sigma Honor Society at Molloy University, as well as the Lambda Pi Eta and Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Societies at St. Francis College.

Committed to making a difference beyond the workplace, Melissa serves on the Board of Directors for the Metropolitan New York Chamber of Commerce, contributing to initiatives that support business growth, collaboration, and community connections. She also volunteers with Only Make Believe, assisting with costume design for performances that bring joy and encouragement to children with disabilities in healthcare facilities.

Melissa’s journey has been guided by a lifelong commitment to learning, service, and creating positive change. She credits her success to the determination instilled in her from an early age, the mentors and supporters who have shaped her path, and her faith, which continues to inspire her purpose and leadership.

Melissa’s Leadership Philosophy:

"Regardless of what others may think or say, continue to pursue excellence and strive for success in every area of your life. Give your best effort, stay committed to your purpose, and trust that the rest will fall into place."

Through leadership, education, entrepreneurship, and community involvement, Melissa continues to empower others and make a meaningful impact in every organization and community she serves.

Recognized as an Influential Women Honoree, Melissa represents the impact that passionate leadership, innovation, and service can have across industries and communities.