Melissa serves as investigator on several chronic disease research studies which focus on health literacy. She is involved in ongoing multi-level health disparities initiatives focused on diabetes prevention and management.. Melissa holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin, and her Master’s in Public Health and a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan. She also holds a certificate in non-profit management from the University of Texas at Austin. Serving on the Migrant Health Promotion board allows Melissa to participate in public health service. She currently lives in Helotes,Texas.