Melissa Hartzell

Melissa Hartzell has a diverse and extensive work experience in the non-profit sector. Melissa currently serves as the Chief Development Officer (CDO) at the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, a role they took on in 2023. Prior to this, Melissa worked as the Regional Manager of Preparedness & Partnerships at the American Red Cross from 2021 to 2023.

From 2015 to 2021, Melissa served as the Regional Engagement Officer at the American Red Cross, where they led major gifts and donor development efforts in the Eastern North Carolina region. Before that, they were the Development Director at Housing for New Hope from 2012 to 2015, where they implemented successful fundraising, marketing, and communications strategies.

Melissa has also held the position of Chief Development Officer at the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle from 2009 to 2012, where they established the fundraising infrastructure for the organization. Prior to that, they served as the Vice President of Marketing and Communications at the American Heart Association from 2006 to 2009, leading a team of marketing and communications directors.

Earlier in their career, Melissa worked as a Strategist at Strategy Point LLC., where they provided communication and marketing strategies for business and nonprofit clients. Melissa also worked as a Senior Account Executive at Capstrat from 2001 to 2004.

Melissa started their career as the Director of Communications and Marketing at The Creative Coalition from 1998 to 2000, where they directed advocacy, communications, and events for the arts and entertainment industry.

Before joining The Creative Coalition, Melissa worked as an Associate at APCO Worldwide, a global public affairs firm, from 1996 to 1998, managing accounts for various clients.

Throughout their career, Melissa has consistently demonstrated strong leadership in development, fundraising, marketing, and communications roles in the non-profit sector.

Melissa Hartzell attended American University from 1988 to 1992, where they pursued a degree in Public Communications. Additional information about their education history is not provided.