Melanie Cuchna

Experienced senior public health professional with a data-driven approach and 10+ years of expertise in employee well-being, health promotion, and public health. Skilled in designing, implementing, and evaluating impactful wellness initiatives, such as the CDC's National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP). Proficient in data analysis, coaching, strategic communications, stakeholder management, and vendor coordination. Proven track record of delivering evidence-based programs that enhance population health outcomes and demonstrate cost-effectiveness.

• National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach
• Certified Health Education Specialist
• Certified Workplace Mindfulness Facilitator
• Certified DPP Lifestyle Coach

April 15, 2025

Hiring Committee

American Diabetes Association

2451 Crystal Drive, Suite 900

Arlington, VA 22202

Dear Hiring Committee, 

I am writing to express my interest in the Associate Director, Diabetes Prevention position at the American Diabetes Association. With over a decade of experience in public health and well-being program leadership, and more than five years of experience delivering, coordinating, and reporting on the CDC-recognized Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), I bring a depth of knowledge and a proven record of success in improving outcomes and advancing equity through evidence-based strategies. 

As Manager of liveWELL at the University of Iowa, I oversee a faculty and staff well-being program that serves more than 20,000 employees. I lead all program strategy, operations, evaluation, communications, and outreach. I manage vendor relationships, including those for our online health assessments and group-based mindfulness programs, and oversee a multi-million-dollar annual budget. 

Under my leadership, participation in our DPP groups has expanded, particularly among harder to reach populations at the greatest risk for developing type 2 diabetes. I have used ADA DPP Express for more than two years to track data, conduct evaluations, and prepare reports for the CDC. After coaching many DPP groups, I've witnessed first hand the magic of DPP and why it works. Facilitating group conversations and peer support encouraged many participants to be successful with making small changes to improve their well-being that resulted in a significant impact. This spring, I proudly presented our program outcomes and lessons learned at the Healthiest State Initiative Conference. 

Beyond coaching, I lead all marketing and communication efforts for our programs, including writing and creating success stories, and deliver engaging presentations to large audiences. I also coordinate a network of more than 130 campus wellness ambassadors and lead major events such as the annual UI Health and Well-Being Fair. My work with cross-functional committees has led to adopted evaluation protocols across multiple university departments. 

I've completed several continuing education trainings as a Certified DPP Lifestyle Coach. My strengths in program management and building relationships along with my expertise in health coaching and behavior change allow me to effectively address stakeholders at multiple levels to support expanding DPP efforts in these six states. I am deeply motivated by ADA’s mission and would be honored to bring my leadership, coaching, evaluation, and outreach skills to your team. Thank you for considering my application. I welcome the opportunity to speak further about how I can contribute to your important work. 

Sincerely,

Melanie Cuchna, MPH, MCHES, NBC-HWC