San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce
Melissa Ratcliff has had a diverse and accomplished career in communications and marketing. Melissa began in 1991 as an Assistant to the Communications Director at the National Abortion Rights Action League, where they developed message and issue strategies and oversaw the department budget. From 1993 to 1997, they served as Press Secretary to Carol M. Browner at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, acting as the primary liaison to the White House and Cabinet. Next, they joined the Democratic National Committee as Press Secretary, managing all aspects of communications during challenging times. In 1999, Ratcliff moved to The White House as Deputy Director of Communications for Vice President Al Gore, where they managed the press office with top-secret security clearance. In 2001, they became the Director of Communications at The Broad Foundation, creating and launching the communications and marketing function for the organization's education arm. Ratcliff then started their own consulting firm, Ratcliff Strategies LLC, in 2003 and worked there until 2014, specializing in strategic communications. Lastly, they joined the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce in 2014 as the Vice President of Marketing and Events.
Melissa Ratcliff pursued their education from 1987 to 1991 at the University of Pennsylvania. During this period, they obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology.
San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce
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The San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1870 by Alonzo Horton with the mission to guide in the development of San Diego. At the time, the Chamber focused its efforts on several main priorities: bringing railroads into San Diego; encouraging settlement in the area; bringing fresh drinking water to residents; and supporting commercein the harbor. The Chamber also played a critical role in bringing military bases into the region prior to World War I. It was these efforts that helped the military become a driving force for San Diego’s local economy.Throughout San Diego’s history, the Chamber has made significant contributions to the San Diego we know and love. In 1909, Balboa Park stood as a mere 1,400 acres of sagebrush until the Chamber raised funds to make it one of San Diego’s largest tourist destination and cultural center points. Likewise, in 1962, the Chamber’s Harbor Committee helped pass legislation that would ultimately help complete the construction of the Coronado Bay Bridge in 1969.Today, the Chamber is the largest nonprofit advocate for the San Diego regional business community. With nearly 3,000 members representing 400,000 employees, the Chamber is actively involved in local government, regional economic development and providing valuable resources to its members.OUR VISIONThe San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce aims to be the most influential business network, advocate and resource for growing commerce in the San Diego region.OUR MISSION To serve our member businesses and employees representing all sectors throughout the San Diego region;To provide opportunities to enhance our members best business interests through networking, advocacy and business resources; and,To partner with our members and other organizations to make the San Diego region more prosperous.