Melissa Looney

Melissa Looney has a diverse work experience in various roles and industries. Melissa started their career at Walt Disney World in 2006 as part of the Disney Theme Parks and Resorts College Program. Later, they worked as a Project SEARCH Training Coach at Lakeview Center Inc from 2009 to 2011. In 2012, they joined Full Sail University as an Associate Course Director, responsible for online and in-person courses. From 2014 to 2018, they served as a Consultant at Insight Spectrum. In 2016, they became an Instructor and the Professional Internships Program Manager at the University of West Florida. Starting in 2018, they worked at Bentley University, initially as an Assistant Director of Employee Learning and Development, then as a Senior Associate Director, and currently as the Director of Employee Learning and Development and Engagement Strategies. Throughout their career, Melissa Looney also worked as a part-time professor at Valencia College from 2013 to 2020.

Melissa Looney received their Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from the University of West Florida in the years 2006 to 2009. Melissa then pursued their Master of Arts in Communication at the University of South Alabama from 2010 to 2012. In the same year, they also studied at Ulm University, focusing on German Language and European Union Policy. Currently, they are in the process of completing their Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Strategic Communication at the University of Central Florida, expected to be finished by 2024. Additionally, Melissa has obtained certifications such as Advanced Techniques in Articulate Storyline from LinkedIn and is also a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and True Colors Personal Success Facilitator.