Melanie Saint James, D.Min, CDTLF, CDWF

Melanie Saint James, D.Min, CDTLF, CDWF has worked in a variety of roles since 2005. Melanie began their career as a Chaplain for Care Alternatives Hospice in 2005, followed by an Interim Associate Pastor role at Upland First Presbyterian Church in 2006. In 2007, they became the Solo Interim Pastor at Geneva Presbyterian Church in Modesto. From 2011 to 2012, they served as a Technical Writer/Editor for Pacific Northwest National Laboratory as an independent contractor. In 2012, Melanie became a Spiritual Formation Ministry Partner for Imago Christi, as well as a Spiritual Director & Leadership Coach for Novo (formerly CRM Empowering Leaders). In 2014, they began working as a Certified Facilitator of the Daring Way, providing 3-day intensives locally and across the country for The Daring Way and Rising Strong curriculum based on the research and work of Dr. Brené Brown on the topics of shame, worthiness, love and belonging.

Melanie Saint James has an extensive education history, beginning with a B.S. in Biology from Pacific Lutheran University, obtained between 1989 and 1993. Melanie then went on to obtain an M.Div. in Pastoral Care from Regent College between 1994 and 1999. Following this, they earned an MA in Psychology from Fuller Theological Seminary between 1997 and 2000. Finally, they obtained a D.Min (Doctor of Ministry) in Christian Spiritual Formation & Leadership from Azusa Pacific University between 2000 and 2003. In addition, Saint James has two certifications: a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator obtained in December 2018, and a Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator from The Daring Way.