Melissa Vande Kieft

Melissa Vande Kieft is an experienced marketing and event specialist currently working at MV Consulting since March 2021, where the focus is on assisting purpose-driven entrepreneurs in enhancing brand awareness and establishing authority. As a public speaker for Living in the Wait since October 2021, Melissa encourages women to navigate challenges and find strength in difficult experiences. As an author, Melissa wrote the best-selling book "Living in the Wait: How to Use the Delays in Life Differently," which offers readers insights on cultivating hope and understanding during life’s pauses. Additionally, Melissa serves as the Professional and Special Programs Coordinator at South Dakota State University, overseeing the planning and marketing of academic conferences since November 2016, and previously coordinated annual giving events at Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center from 2010 to 2016. Melissa began her career as the Alumni Relations Officer for the South Dakota State University Alumni Association from 2007 to 2010 after earning a Bachelor's degree in Corporate Communications from Morningside University in 2007.