Melissa is a dedicated educator and child advocate with a solid focus on the individual needs of students. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from Hampton University and her Master’s degree in Secondary Education from The City University of New York at Queens College. Melissa also holds Advanced Dual Certificates in School Building Leadership and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) from St. John’s University. Melissa is currently the Director of Mentorship for I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D. where she helps students set short and long-term goals with the help of their mentors. Melissa works with the IAC mentees in forming action plans, career exploration, goal-oriented strategies, and time management skills. Melissa is a 14 year veteran educator for the NYC Department of Education where she is also the faculty advisor for her school’s The Do Something (Community Service) Club and Coach for the Precision Step Team. Melissa is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated - Brooklyn Alumnae Chapter. She takes pleasure in connecting with family and friends and enjoys aerobic and fitness activities. Melissa enjoys traveling and has visited several states throughout  the United States, the Caribbean, Central America and Europe.