Melissa Young-Spillers
Lafayette,IN
Summary
Dynamic educator and administrator with a proven track record at Purdue University, enhancing student success and advancing research objectives. Skilled in strategic planning and problem-solving, with a strong foundation in teamwork and collaboration. Achieved significant improvements in federal reimbursement processes, demonstrating exceptional attention to detail and decision-making abilities.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Indianapolis Province Co-Director & Board Member
National Council of Catholic Women
Indianapolis, IN & Washington DC
08.2021 - Current
- Fostered an inclusive environment that valued diversity of thought, experience, and background among team members.
- Utilized technology tools effectively to automate tasks where appropriate, freeing up time for higher-value activities.
- Developed detailed plans based on broad guidance and direction.
Catechist & Ministry Volunteer
Cathedral of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception
Lafayette, IN
08.2002 - Current
- Reviewed, evaluated, and ordered essential religious education materials and supplies.
- Incorporated multimedia resources into lessons to maintain student interest and appeal to various learning modalities.
- Supervised and guided children in completing assigned lessons and projects.
- Evaluated and updated curriculum as needed, ensuring alignment with diocesan guidelines and maintaining relevance for contemporary audiences.
- Actively participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices in religious education.
- Supported the sacramental preparation process by providing relevant instruction and guidance to candidates and their families.
- Built strong connections with parish leadership, working collaboratively towards shared goals related to faith formation within the community.
- Developed engaging lesson plans tailored to individual learning styles, resulting in increased participation and comprehension.
- Encouraged critical thinking by posing thought-provoking questions during class discussions, challenging students to explore their beliefs more deeply.
- Fostered a positive classroom atmosphere that encouraged open discussion while maintaining appropriate boundaries and respect for differing opinions.
- Managed classroom behavior to maintain safety and promote orderly learning environments.
- Encouraged class participation to build student confidence and interest in church teachings.
- Planned, facilitated, and completed numerous projects with both adults and children. Examples include Local Mission and Retreats.
- Interacted with local community, building relationships with civic organizations and other churches.
High School Teacher
Central Catholic Jr./Sr. High School
Lafayette, IN
08.2008 - 05.2009
- Established a positive classroom environment by setting clear expectations and fostering open communication between students and teachers.
- Created engaging lesson plans, fostered a culture of discovery, and provided a well-organized classroom structure to help students succeed in the program.
- Increased student comprehension by incorporating real-world examples and hands-on activities into lessons.
- Assessed student progress regularly, providing constructive feedback and targeted interventions to improve academic performance.
Secretary
Central Catholic Jr./Sr. High School
Lafayette, IN
08.2007 - 05.2009
- Handled sensitive information discreetly, maintaining confidentiality when managing personnel files or financial data.
- Answered multi-line phone system and enthusiastically greeted callers.
- Provided exceptional customer service by promptly addressing inquiries and resolving issues professionally.
- Promoted a positive image of the organization through clear communication both internally with colleagues and externally with families.
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN
08.2002 - 05.2008
- Checked assignments, proctored tests and provided grades according to university standards.
- Developed strong rapport with students through open communication channels, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
- Enhanced student comprehension by incorporating visual aids and real-world examples into lectures.
- Provided timely and constructive feedback on assignments, enabling students to refine their work and achieve higher grades.
Graduate Research Assistant
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN
05.2006 - 12.2006
- Participated in regular meetings with project supervisors, providing progress updates and discussing potential challenges or areas for improvement.
- Enhanced research quality by conducting thorough literature reviews and synthesizing findings.
- Reviewed and synthesized relevant research articles to inform the development of research questions and hypotheses.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to advance research objectives and achieve project milestones.
Case Manager
Bauer Family Resources
Lafayette, IN
05.2003 - 08.2003
- Maintained accurate documentation on all cases, ensuring compliance with regulations and confidentiality requirements.
- Conducted thorough assessments of clients'' situations, identifying issues, goals, and necessary interventions.
- Monitored ongoing cases closely, adjusting case management strategies as needed based on evolving circumstances or new information.
- Educated clients on available programs, benefits, and services, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care needs.
- Achieved positive client outcomes by developing and implementing comprehensive case management plans.
- Advocated for client rights when interacting with external agencies or institutions, ensuring fair treatment at all times.
- Advocated for clients in legal settings, ensuring their rights were protected and their voices heard, while ensuring recommendations maintained the safety and dignity of their children.
Federal Reimbursement Consultant
Tippecanoe County
Lafayette, IN
02.2000 - 05.2001
- Improved accuracy of federal status and correct billing codes through audits and providing ongoing education to staff members.
- Supported clients during regulatory audits, ensuring full maximization of federal reimbursement owed, resulting in over one million dollars.
- Served as a subject matter expert on reimbursement policies, consulting with the State of Indiana and other internal departments to provide accurate guidance to Tippecanoe and other Central Indiana counties.
- Streamlined claim submission processes through the development of customized templates and documentation guidelines.
Manager
McDonald's Restaurant
West Lafayette, IN And Fort Wayne, IN
08.1996 - 05.2000
- Managed and motivated employees to be productive and engaged in work.
- Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
- Maintained a professional, organized, and safe environment for employees and patrons.
- Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
- Controlled costs to keep the business operating within budget and increase profits.
Education
No Degree - Social Justice & Youth Ministry
University of Dayton (VLCFF)
Dayton, OHMaster of Science - Sociology
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN08-2004
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN05-2001
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN05-2001
Skills
- Time management
- Decision-making
- Team leadership
- Strategic planning
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Powerful writing skills
- Strong research skills
- Critical thinking
- Social work background
- Trauma-informed care
- Teamwork and collaboration
Accomplishments
- Planned over 30 events over the last 15 years. Examples included Indiana American Heritage Girls U.S. Military Heroes Day in cooperation with the Purdue ROTC Program and St. Mary and St. Anne Local Mission in collaboration with community partners.
- Earned the BSA District Merit Award in 2023 and the Diocese of Lafayette of Indiana's Committee on Scouting's Fr. Award in 2024.
- Used Microsoft Excel to develop pastorate kitchen ordering spreadsheets.
- Possess solid skills with the entire Microsoft Office Suite and am proficient with Microsoft Word and Microsoft Publisher.
Affiliations
- National Council of Catholic Women
- American Heritage Girls
- Scouting America
- 4-H
Certification
Certificate in Survey Methodology
Certificate in Theology of the Body
Certificates in Social Justice and Youth Ministry (in progress)
ServSafe Manager Certificate (in progress)
Timeline
Indianapolis Province Co-Director & Board Member
National Council of Catholic Women
08.2021 - Current
High School Teacher
Central Catholic Jr./Sr. High School
08.2008 - 05.2009
Secretary
Central Catholic Jr./Sr. High School
08.2007 - 05.2009
Graduate Research Assistant
Purdue University
05.2006 - 12.2006
Case Manager
Bauer Family Resources
05.2003 - 08.2003
Catechist & Ministry Volunteer
Cathedral of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception
08.2002 - Current
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Purdue University
08.2002 - 05.2008
Federal Reimbursement Consultant
Tippecanoe County
02.2000 - 05.2001
Manager
McDonald's Restaurant
08.1996 - 05.2000
No Degree - Social Justice & Youth Ministry
University of Dayton (VLCFF)
Master of Science - Sociology
Purdue University
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Purdue University
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
Purdue University