Dr. Mel has extensive service to Catholic schools as a teacher and administrator on the elementary, middle, and high school levels as well as on the university undergraduate and doctoral levels.  She retired in 2022 from the Diocese of Baton Rouge after thirteen years in service as Superintendent of Schools and currently provides leadership coaching and school improvement services.

Dr. Mel has provided numerous workshops and presentations across the country, including Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Pennsylvania, California, Washington, Illinois, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and Louisiana. She also provides online and in-person coaching for leaders and leadership teams with a focus on organizational growth.

Dr. Mel earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of San Francisco, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of New Orleans, and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Secondary Education from Loyola University.  Her publications include articles for NCEA’s Momentum and The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools on accreditation and school improvement, and Dr. Mel has provided presentations and workshops to local schools, regional districts, and national professional organizations on a wide variety of topics with the goal of providing support for educational improvement.

Dr. Mel’s focus is to bring joy to the work of organizations, and she is especially happy to share time with professionals committed to growth.