Director of Marketing and Community Relations
Melissa works closely with staff in the Trail, Lands, and Philanthropy programs to improve specific program and cross-program advancement through marketing and outreach. She implements short- and long-range initiatives associated with the strategic plan and other operational goals, especially those which maximize the Alliance’s profile, reputation, and image.
With a Bachelor’s degree in English (Professional Writing Concentration), Melissa brings 20+ years of corporate experience to the Ice Age Trail Alliance. Her career began as a copywriter and progressed to senior level positions where she led cross-functional teams and developed communications plans guiding strategic initiatives. She served as the marketing representative, communications subject matter expert, and voice of customer for cross-departmental projects.
Melissa comes to the Alliance after discovering a passion for hiking. In late 2019, she picked up a book that had been on her shelf for about five years: 60 hikes within 60 miles of Madison and selected her first outing. She quickly discovered the Brooklyn Wildlife Segment which prompted her curiosity in the Ice Age Trail and to hiking more and more segments. Now, she often joins the Get Off the Couch hiking group, with a goal of section hiking the entire Trail.
Learn more about Melissa through this interview.