Originally from Central and Northeast Ohio, Melissa relocated to Aspen in 2016, inspired by the region's creative energy, entrepreneurial spirit, and extraordinary natural beauty. A lifelong artist and storyteller, she earned a Master of Arts Administration and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography from The University of Akron, along with degrees in Digital Media Design and Liberal Arts. Her creative foundation continues to shape her approach to branding, marketing, and visual communication.

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Melissa brings nearly two decades of experience at the intersection of branding, design, marketing, and the arts. Her career has included roles as an entrepreneur, creative director, educator, photographer, graphic designer, producer, gallery owner, and marketing strategist, as well as serving as Artistic Director for a local architecture firm and developing college-level curriculum in photography, graphic design, and visual communications. Today, she helps translate architecture, design, and complex ideas into compelling stories that build trust, strengthen brands, and create meaningful connections.

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Outside of work, Melissa is an active artist and creative advocate whose interests include photography, painting, printmaking, sewing, digital media, and immersive storytelling. She also enjoys golfing, hiking, skiing, crossfit, paddleboarding, camping, gardening, cooking, and traveling with her husband and cat, while always finding inspiration in Colorado's creative community and the outdoors.

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Education

The University of Akron, OH

Masters in Arts Administration, Thesis: "Financial Challenges of New Media Art in Contemporary Arts Institutions", 2017

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The University of Akron, OH

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography, minor in Professional Photography, 2009

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Central Ohio Technical College, OH

Associate of Digital Media Design, 2007

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The Ohio State University, OH

Associates of Liberal Arts, 2005

 

Community Affiliations

Volunteer Team Lead, Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) x Kairos Futura | First Forest Division: Zombie Forest Quest, 2026

Artist Contributor & Event Volunteer, The Art Base | 10x10 Name Unseen Silent Auction & Fundraiser, 2019-present

Volunteer Short Film Pre-Screener, Aspen Film, 2021-2022

Crew Volunteer, Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboarding Club, 2019-2020

Co-Chair, Contemporaries at The Aspen Art Museum, 2017-2019

Membership Chair, Aspen Young Professional Association, 2018-2019

Volunteer Graphic Designer, GlenX Career Expo, 2017-2019