Melissa is the Executive Assistant to Rich Cochran, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Western Reserve Land Conservancy. Since 2022, her role has involved supporting the CEO and the Conservancy’s Board of Directors, ensuring seamless internal coordination and maximizing external executive opportunities. Melissa’s dedication to the organization’s mission is as strong as her morning coffee, evident in her support of the Conservancy’s initiatives and her efforts to ensure effective operations.
Melissa brings a wealth of experience and a diverse skill set to her role at the Land Conservancy. Her previous role in higher education administration provided her with a profound understanding of serving the greater good and navigating the unique challenges of non-profit organizations. Prior to this, she excelled in coordinating a large medical specialist office and surgery center, honing her skills in complex schedule coordination, patient support, database management, and collaborating with the practice’s owners for smooth operations. Melissa’s professional journey is built on a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition from The Pennsylvania State University, complemented by her early retail experience leading teams, launching locations, and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Growing up in the Appalachian Mountains of Pennsylvania, Melissa developed a deep appreciation for nature. With the opportunity to live in both New England and the Northern Plains before moving to Cleveland with her husband and son, she has seen many examples of both the positive potential of conservation and the consequences of its absence. Outside of work, she enjoys a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, crick walking, and exploring national and local parks to discover the wonders of nature.