Melissa is an accomplished strategist and advisor with a wealth of experience advancing mission-critical initiatives for both philanthropists and nonprofit organizations. She served as a major gift fundraiser at Yale University for more than a decade, helping families and individuals make meaningful connections to giving priorities that resonated with their values and interests, while addressing important institutional needs. After relocating to the Washington, DC area, Melissa led advancement for the Smithsonian Archives of American Art. There, she reenergized the board of trustees to support the organization’s most successful single fundraiser in the organization’s history. She also mentored a new generation of philanthropic leaders and strengthened relationships with loyal but distant donors.

Melissa founded Partners in Philanthropy to amplify the impact of donors’ personal and financial resources to drive meaningful change. By showing clients how to give strategically to areas of need that are aligned with their unique values and aspirations, they can provide more support and find joy in generosity. When giving is a positive experience, donors are motivated to provide greater support each year and begin to chip away at our greatest challenges. Whether helping one person attend college with a scholarship, or contributing to research for a cure for cancer, targeted philanthropy can do more to solve problems, and donors feel like they are gaining, rather than losing in the process.

Melissa helps individuals and families craft sound giving strategies and supports their relationships with organizations to strengthen their leadership in the nonprofit space. She offers personalized attention to every client, tailoring her services to serve their individual resources, needs, and interests. Her expertise and commitment ensure that each client finds purpose in their philanthropic journey.