Melissa graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a BA in Political Science from the College of Wooster in 2006, and then with an MA in International Peace and Conflict Resolution from American University in 2008. After graduating, Melissa worked in Washington D.C. for Supply Chain Management System, a PEPFAR implementing partner focused on enhancing supply chains of HIV/AIDS medications in the developing world. Melissa is originally from Ohio, and her professional and research interests include the Great Lakes region of Africa, reconciliation, HIV/AIDS prevention/treatment, and access to health care in the developing world.