Melissa McLeod

Melissa McLeod is the National Director of Strategic Partnerships at Summer Search, where she
leads a team across five regions, guides institutional partnership strategy, and oversees a $7.5
million fundraising budget. Previously, she led fundraising at Harlem Grown, securing support
to launch its independent afterschool program and advance its vision for a healthier, more
food-secure Harlem. Her earlier work includes fundraising for employment services, veterans’
services and direct support for New Yorkers navigating housing and mental health challenges.
She also serves on the board of the Association of Fundraising Professionals New York City
Chapter, where she co-chairs professional advancement programming for the city’s fundraising
community.

A first-generation college graduate, Ms. McLeod remembers the mentors and trusted adults
who helped her find her path. She believes young people thrive when adults recognize their
strengths, nurture their curiosity, and give them room to grow. As a member of the school’s
board, Ms. McLeod draws on more than a decade of fundraising and community-based
experience to help guide strategy and secure resources. She is committed to listening to
families and educators and supporting an education that helps students excel academically,
build healthy habits, and lead purposeful lives.

Ms. McLeod holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Stony Brook University and a
Master of Public Health in Community Health Education from the CUNY Graduate School of
Public Health and Health Policy.