Melissa Huffer
Elkhart,IN
Summary
Mission-driven professional with a foundation in education and nonprofit executive support, seeking to contribute as Chief of Staff by advancing organizational effectiveness, fostering a values-driven culture, and supporting the execution of initiatives that expand opportunity and strengthen communities. Combines strategic thinking and sound judgment in complex decision-making with operational discipline, strong interpersonal leadership, and a commitment to continuous growth.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Assistant to the CEO
Child and Parent Services, Inc.
Elkhart, IN
06.2024 - Current
- Partnered with senior leadership to develop strategic plans, set goals, and advance organizational priorities.
- Participated in recruitment, interviewing, and onboarding of new staff.
- Led the culture team to foster a healthy, inclusive workplace aligned with organizational values.
- Supported the CEO and board with discretion as a trusted advisor and communications facilitator during a multi-month merger process.
- Developed process guides and SOPs to streamline executive and operational workflows.
- Managed donor development database processes, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
- Orchestrated end-to-end planning and execution of internal and external organizational events.
- Managed document and records retention in SharePoint.
- Collaborated with IT provider to resolve system issues, minimizing operational downtime.
- Engaged board members and key stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and advance the mission.
Language Arts Teacher
Concord Community Schools
Elkhart, IN
- Delivered instruction using digital and in-person classroom management systems, tracking student performance and progress.
- Analyzed student data to implement targeted instructional strategies, improving learning outcomes.
- Held leadership roles including team leader, district-wide strategic planning collaborator, and interview panelist for new hires.
- Built a culture of professionalism, collaboration, and parent engagement across the school community.
- 10+ years
Marketing and Promotions Director
Hart City RV Sales
Elkhart, IN
- Led integrated marketing and communications strategies across digital, print, and national media to drive sales growth.
- Managed advertising budgets and executed campaigns while maintaining relationships with industry executives.
- Directed customer engagement and operational initiatives, including referral programs, trade shows, and staff recruitment and training.
- 10+ years
Education
Bachelor of Science - Secondary English Education
Indiana University
South Bend, IN05-2009
Skills
- Microsoft Office Suite, Google Applications; Mac & PC environments
- EOS Management System
- Project management, problem-solving, and multi-tasking in fast-paced environments
- Experience working with nonprofit boards of directors
- Grammar expertise
- Licensed Indiana Educator
Timeline
Executive Assistant to the CEO
Child and Parent Services, Inc.
06.2024 - Current
Language Arts Teacher
Concord Community Schools
Marketing and Promotions Director
Hart City RV Sales
Bachelor of Science - Secondary English Education
Indiana University
Core Competencies
- Executive Leadership & Strategic Planning
- Operational Management & Process Improvement
- Staff Development & Team Collaboration
- Board & Stakeholder Engagement
- Event Planning & Project Management
- Donor & Database Management
- Technology Integration (SharePoint, EOS, Microsoft Office, Google Suite)
- Decision-Making & Problem Solving