Melissa realized when she was deciding on a career path in college that not everyone had an adoration for children, and by the age of 25, she was living out her dream of being the Director of her first preschool with over 150 students, which eventually led to school ownership in 2012.

She always felt the call to help others overcome challenges and become better versions of themselves, by way of parenting, volunteering, serving, coaching, mentoring, ministering, listening, advocating, teaching, and everything in between. She fiercely believes the unrefuted fact that the most critical time in one’s life are those first 5 years of existence, and dreams of a world where those who have not had the privilege of working in the child care industry can someday see the world the same way they do.

Melissa was almost halfway complete in her pursuit of a master’s in professional counseling before her personal life took an unexpected turn in 2022, thrusting her into a new season of caring for a chronically ill parent near home. Her passion for mental health advocacy, treatment and resources has almost surpassed her passion for young children now, and she looks forward to weaving what she’s learned into various aspects of her work at A2P. She doesn’t rule out finishing her master’s someday, but for now, she will rely on her experience, skills and education in this area to enhance every aspect of the services she offers her clients.

Melissa now has over 20 years of leadership experience, including over 12 years advocating for the child care industry on behalf of thousands of hard working Child Care Owners, corporate executives, school staff and families that need high-quality, affordable education and care for their most prized possessions.

Founding Anchor to Pier seemed like a natural progression to continue doing the work she loves, and she looks forward to this new chapter in life, where she will continue to try to leave the world slightly better than she found it.