Melanie is a strong advocate for local and global ecosystems.
Raised in Marine Park, Brooklyn, Melanie has always felt a connection with nearby marine ecosystems, including the local salt marsh, beaches, and New York Harbor. Her passion has led her to a career rooted in supporting environmental policy and sustainable initiatives.
While attending the New York Harbor School in 2017, Melanie facilitated a baseline study of the East & Harlem Rivers. Her conclusions indicated the ecosystem was too toxic by EPA standards and advocated the need for restorative measures to policy makers.
Melanie and her research were featured in Discovery's Take Back the Harbor (2018).
Melanie went on to earn her B.A. Environmental Studies, concentrated in Environmental Law & Policy, from Stony Brook University. Aside from her studies, Melanie served as teaching assistant for ENS 301: Environmental Policies, was secretary of the Greenhouse and Gardening Club, and volunteered with the New York Aquarium.
Melanie also graduated with her M.A. Marine Conservation and Policy from Stony Brook University. Her graduate capstone highlighted how media can be used to advance understanding of climate change and consequences. Her work also attracted the attention of filmmakers, journalists, and policy makers.
Melanie is also an avid national park enthusiast. She has visited Denali, Acadia, Haleakala, and Yosemite National Parks. She also briefly served as a Statue of Liberty tour guide. Her interest in history and nature have driven her to appreciate protected natural areas and wildlife from coast to coast.
