Melissa Pluss

Melissa Pluss has a diverse range of work experience in various roles within the community organizing and advocacy field. Melissa is currently working as the Assistant Recruitment Director at The Direct Action & Research Training (DART) Center, starting in December 2021. Prior to this role, they served as the Director of Community Engagement at Highlands Church Denver from January 2021 to October 2021.

From 2015 to 2018, Melissa held the position of Organizing Director at UNITED FOR A NEW ECONOMY, where they managed the community organizing department and successfully built an organizing program. Melissa trained staff, developed a multi-generational and multi-lingual organizing committee, and spearheaded housing campaigns at both local and state levels.

Before that, Melissa worked as the Mentoring Coordinator at Mt. Carmel Redevelopment Corporation from May 2013 to March 2014. In this role, they oversaw mentoring initiatives within the organization.

From November 2010 to November 2012, Melissa served as a Community Organizer at Citizens of Louisville Organized and United Together. Melissa was responsible for bringing together organized individuals to hold political and economic systems accountable. Melissa trained and developed community leaders in grassroots community organizing and organized citywide fundraising drives.

Additionally, Melissa worked as an Organizer Trainee at Citizens of Louisville Organized and United Together from July 2010 to November 2010, gaining valuable experience in grassroots organizing.

Melissa's earlier experience includes working as a Recruitment Specialist at Direct Action and Research Training Institute from November 2008 to November 2009. In this position, they focused on promoting and recruiting for the DART Organizers Institute, establishing relationships with student group leaders, professors, and students.

Throughout their career, Melissa has demonstrated a strong passion for community engagement, grassroots organizing, and social justice.

Melissa Pluss obtained a Master's degree in Spiritual Care & Social Justice from the Iliff School of Theology between 2019 and 2021. Melissa also attended the DART Organizers Institute in 2010, although no degree or field of study is specified for this program. Melissa Pluss completed their undergraduate education at The University of Kansas, where they earned a Bachelor's degree in Anthropology and Liberal Arts and Sciences. In addition to their formal education, they obtained a certification in 200 Yoga Teacher Training from Samadhi Yoga in November 2018.