Masters of Science in Technical Communication (Public Relations) – Colorado State University (2005); Bachelors of Arts in Technical Journalism (Public Relations) – Colorado State University (1991); Graduate, Water and Wastewater Leadership Center, University of North Carolina, Kenan-Flagler Business School (2016)
Melissa’s 25+ year career is focused on helping utilities and municipalities tell their stories. As an executive and leader for Raftelis’ western offices, she has responsibility for service delivery to clients across the Western US. She also consults with local government and utility leaders as part of Raftelis’ nation-wide Strategic Communication Services practice, providing strategic counsel on communications and outreach planning, stakeholder engagement, and risk communication strategies. Melissa has extensive experience working with elected officials, stakeholders, and the public on issues as diverse as rate structure change, drought, water quality, potable reuse, affordability, impactful construction projects, rate increases, customer assistance programs, and demand management. Highly active in the water industry, Melissa is a Past President of the American Water Works Association, former chair of AWWA’s Public Affairs Council, and a regular volunteer for The Water Research Foundation. She has an M.S. in technical communication and a B.A. in journalism and is Accredited in Public Relations (APR) from the Public Relations Society of America. Prior to joining Raftelis, Melissa directed the public affairs efforts at Denver Water, which included creating public engagement strategies for massive infrastructure projects, developing a nationally recognized lead service line replacement program, and leading conservation outreach efforts through the innovative “Use Only What You Need” campaign.