Fasae Melissa Garcia Cae

Melissa Garcia, FASAE, CAE has a diverse work experience spanning over two decades. Melissa currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Vice President of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand since June 2023.

Prior to their current role, Melissa held various positions at the Society for Neuroscience. From July 2018 to June 2023, they worked as the Associate Executive Director, where they guided the digital and information strategy, oversaw policy and advocacy activities, and managed the strategy and operations for two scholarly journal publications. Before that, from April 2015 to July 2018, they served as the Senior Director of Digital & Information Strategy, responsible for internal and external technology systems, major digital initiatives, and operations for scholarly journals.

From August 2013 to April 2015, Melissa worked as the Senior Director of Planning & Information at the Society for Neuroscience, where they directed technology and information initiatives and facilitated board meetings and strategic planning efforts.

Additionally, Melissa has held roles such as Director of Information and Decision Support, Director of Annual Meeting Program Department, Project Manager, Program Coordinator, and Program Assistant throughout their career.

Through these various roles, Melissa has developed strong expertise in digital and information strategy, managing technology systems, overseeing publications, and strategic planning.

Melissa Garcia, FASAE, CAE has a diverse educational background. In 1997, they enrolled in the University of Maryland and completed a Bachelor's Degree in English, Language, Writing, and Rhetoric in 2001. During their time at the university, they also pursued a Bachelor's Degree in French Language and Literature.

Melissa's dedication to executive leadership led their to Cornell University in 2015, where they obtained a Certificate in Executive Leadership in 2016.

In addition to their academic achievements, Melissa obtained the CAE (Certified Association Executive) certification from ASAE: The Center for Association Leadership in December 2010. This certification further reinforces their expertise in association leadership and management.

Overall, Melissa Garcia's educational history showcases a strong foundation in English, writing, and rhetoric, as well as a passion for French language and literature. Melissa'scommitment to professional development is evident through their acquisition of the Executive Leadership certificate and the valuable CAE certification.