Melissa Edwards
About Melissa Edwards
Melissa Edwards serves as the Senior Manager of Development for National Markets at Share Our Strength in Chicago, Illinois, where she has worked since 2020. With a strong background in project management and donor development, she is fluent in English and Spanish and holds a Master's Degree in International Public Service from DePaul University.
Work at Share Our Strength
Melissa Edwards has been serving as the Senior Manager of Development, National Markets at Share Our Strength since 2020. In this role, she focuses on fundraising and development strategies within national markets. Prior to this position, she held the role of Senior Manager of Culinary Events, Midwest from 2016 to 2020. During her tenure, she contributed to various initiatives aimed at enhancing donor engagement and support for the organization’s mission.
Previous Experience at NPH USA
Before joining Share Our Strength, Melissa Edwards worked at NPH USA in various capacities. She served as Development Manager from 2014 to 2016, where she managed fundraising efforts. Additionally, she held the position of Child Sponsorship Manager from 2009 to 2011 and worked as Special Events Manager from 2011 to 2014. Her roles involved overseeing sponsorship programs and organizing events to support the organization’s goals.
Education and Expertise
Melissa Edwards earned her Master’s Degree in International Public Service from DePaul University, studying from 2008 to 2010. She also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Women's Studies from Northern Arizona University, which she completed from 2002 to 2006. Her educational background supports her expertise in managing complex projects and developing effective communication strategies.
Language Proficiency
Melissa Edwards is fluent in both English and Spanish. This language proficiency enhances her ability to communicate effectively with a diverse donor base, allowing her to engage with a wider audience in her development efforts.
Skills and Communication
Melissa possesses strong verbal and written communication skills, which are essential for developing effective donor strategies. Her ability to manage complex, multi-faceted projects has led to measurable successes in her roles, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the organizations she has worked with.