Melissa Abramson

Melissa Abramson is an experienced leader in community engagement and marketing, currently serving as the Head of Community Engagement at REI since August 2011. In this role, Melissa oversees stakeholder management and directs brand awareness campaigns to enhance customer engagement with REI's impact initiatives. Previously, Melissa held positions including National Manager for Marketing, Engagement, and Impact, where responsibilities included building regional marketing teams and developing local brand engagement strategies. Additionally, Melissa's leadership experience extends to managing outdoor programs while advocating for public lands across the Eastern U.S. Melissa is also the Founder and Chair of the New York Outdoor Recreation Coalition, which connects outdoor industry professionals and advocates for equitable access to recreation in New York State. Melissa's educational background includes a M.Sc in Social Policy and Planning from The London School of Economics and Political Science, a B.S. in Environmental Studies from Ithaca College, and studies in Natural Resources Management and Environmental Studies and Social Impact at the School for International Training.