Coming from a military family in Oakland, California, Melissa naturally found herself interested in the military from a young age. She joined the Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps program while in high school and decided to enlist after graduating. After receiving training as a dental specialist, Melissa was stationed stateside and subsequently served two tours in Iraq.
After being medically discharged, Melissa worked for the Department of Veteran Affairs as a health benefits advisor. It was during this time that she realized her desire to advocate for veterans like herself. She utilizes her leadership and coaching skills to equip and empower individuals to develop the economic mobility to move out of poverty.
Melissa is currently the Program Director of the Minority Veterans of America branch in Seattle, Washington. Minority Veterans of America seeks to advocate for fair treatment of minorities, such as women, and LGBTQ+ Veterans. Melissa believes that advocacy and representation play a critical role in improving community well-being and social equity.
Find out more about MVA at: https://minorityvets.org/
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