Melissa Shaffmaster

Melissa Shaffmaster is an accomplished communications professional currently serving as the Senior Director of Strategic Communications at Cornell University since January 2015. In this role, Melissa manages strategic communications for a top-ranked Ivy League institution, developing communication strategies and institutional messaging that align with university priorities and address the needs of diverse audiences. Prior to this position, Melissa held various roles, including Senior Manager of Strategic Priority Communications at Cornell, Manager of Public Affairs & Communications at ERG Partners, and Manager of Public Relations at Insurance Agents & Brokers. Melissa's experience includes extensive work in public relations, government affairs, and community relations across multiple industries, as well as a solid educational background with a Master's degree in Strategic Communications from American University and a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communication Literacy and English Literature from Lycoming College.