Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Selectedachievements
Educationcertification
Timeline
Generic

MELISSA YOUNGBLOOD

Altamonte Springs,FL

Summary

Strategic and results-driven leader with extensive experience in executive-level management, education administration, and program development. Proven track record of driving operational efficiency, increasing revenue, and fostering community engagement. Adept at overseeing complex projects, managing large teams, and executing strategic initiatives that align with organizational goals. Known for innovative problem-solving, effective communication, and a commitment to educational excellence.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience

Work History

Co-Interim Executive Director

Shalom Orlando
10.2023 - Current
  • Analyzed staffing and operations, implementing cost-saving measures resulting in positive cash flow
  • Established a marketing plan in the absence of the marketing department, securing a renewed $50,000 donor gift
  • Restructured the organizational chart to optimize leadership and development, elevating team roles for greater impact
  • Managed donor relations, securing significant commitments including a $54K match from the Heller Family
  • Directed the creation of a balanced budget for FY25, projecting a $200K positive cash flow.

Adjunct Professor

University of Central Florida
05.2021 - Current
  • Design and teach Early Childhood Education courses, integrating hands-on learning experiences
  • Support students in developing skills essential for impactful careers in early childhood education.

Chief Education Officer

Shalom Orlando
04.2018 - Current
  • Oversee a $3.2M budget and manage 70 staff, ensuring high standards of educational excellence
  • Transitioned the Early Childhood Learning Center to a Reggio-Emilia inspired environment, enhancing learning outcomes
  • Led the expansion of Shayna’s Village, focusing on services for children with diverse learning needs
  • Secured media coverage for new initiatives, enhancing community awareness and engagement.

Director

Creative World School
05.2017 - 03.2018
  • Directed daily operations, monitored compliance with Advanced Ed guidelines, and maintained high standards of care.

Director of ECLC

Jewish Community Center
08.2013 - 11.2014
  • Managed an $850K budget, increased parental involvement, and drove a 500% boost in fundraising efforts.

Director of ECLC

Jewish Community Center
08.2010 - 08.2013
  • Exceeded recruitment goals and raised $165K for the Playground Fund Initiative through innovative campaigns.

Education

Master of Arts -

Vanderbilt University

Skills

  • Community Engagement
  • Program Management
  • Strategic Planning
  • Operations Management
  • Budgeting and financial management
  • Staff Management
  • Relationship Building
  • Program Leadership
  • Innovation and Creativity
  • Leadership Development
  • Stakeholder Relations
  • Government relations

Selectedachievements

  • Successfully launched Heller Grove, completing construction within four months after years of delays.
  • Recognized by Florida Blue as one of five named projects of the year, securing $200K in funding.
  • Achieved nearly 100% staff retention at ECLC, outperforming industry turnover rates significantly.
  • Enhanced Shalom Orlando’s visibility with major media coverage and strengthened marketing efforts.
  • Secured naming rights for four spaces in Shayna’s Village, generating $68K in revenue.

Educationcertification

  • Master of Education in Special Education, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 4.0/4.0, Recipient of fellowship funded by the U.S. Department of Education
  • Board Certified Behavior Analyst
  • Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Special Education, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 3.72/4.0, Magna Cum Laude, Participated in Study Abroad Program in Perth, Australia
  • Sheva Center Leadership Institute for Early Childhood Professionals, JCCA, New York, NY, Recipient of fellowship funded by The Jim Joseph Foundation
  • Completed National Director’s Credential, McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership
  • Certifications, Director Credential, First Aid, CPR & AED, Tennessee Professional Teaching License, K-8 & K-12 Special Education (Expired)

Timeline

Co-Interim Executive Director

Shalom Orlando
10.2023 - Current

Adjunct Professor

University of Central Florida
05.2021 - Current

Chief Education Officer

Shalom Orlando
04.2018 - Current

Director

Creative World School
05.2017 - 03.2018

Director of ECLC

Jewish Community Center
08.2013 - 11.2014

Director of ECLC

Jewish Community Center
08.2010 - 08.2013

Master of Arts -

Vanderbilt University

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