Melissa was raised in Syracuse, New York, and moved to Los Angeles to attend law school. Throughout her life, Melissa has remained committed to fostering meaningful ties to her community, something she credits to her loving parents and siblings and her Upstate New York roots. Aside from her professional and charitable responsibilities, Melissa relishes her role as a mother to her and Joe’s three children, ages 7, 5, and 2. Raising her young family in Los Angeles, Melissa sees firsthand the way that high-quality arts and extracurricular activities, like the exceptional dance instruction provided by EDLA!, build character in children and create a vital sense of purpose and belonging not only for the students but also for their families and their communities. Melissa has never been prouder to be part of EDLA! She is exceedingly grateful to her friends and family, especially her husband Joe, for generously and graciously supporting EDLA! alongside her.