Melissa Mellor

Melissa Mellor is a communication strategist with two decades of experience in the education and youth sector. At The Hatcher Group, Melissa leads the firm’s education portfolio.  

Prior to joining The Hatcher Group, Melissa was the senior director of communications at America’s Promise Alliance where she spearheaded communications for several distinct campaigns and initiatives, including GradNation and How Learning Happens. At America’s Promise, she helped to maximize the impact of the organization’s research and amplify youth experiences and perspectives on a wide variety of topics that influence their lives, from learning about racism to the pandemic’s effects on education and wellbeing.  

Melissa also led communications for the Aspen Institute National Commission on Social, Emotional, and Academic Development, including the release of the Commission’s final report, A Nation at Hope. Previously, she was manager of government relations outreach at ASCD where she led the association’s advocacy communications and promoted whole child education policies. Melissa has also held positions at the Council of Chief State School Officers and at Education Week.  

Melissa earned her master’s degree in education from Wake Forest University and her master’s in public relations and corporate communications from Georgetown University. She lives in Arlington, Va., with her husband and three young children. 

PASSIONS THAT BENEFIT MY CLIENTS

• Working alongside young people so that their experiences and perspectives cut through the noise, shape discourse, and drive change. 
• Making research accessible and meaningful. 
• Listening and learning; these are key aspects of leading that are too often underrated.