Melissa is a Texas native but has called the world her home for the last 10 years. Following a passion for the ocean, she studied at the University of the Virgin Islands where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology. Upon graduating she found her way into the yachting industry which allowed her to dive and do underwater photography in some of the most remote locations around the world. Through yachting she was connected to SeaKeepers, getting to pursue science while working in the yachting industry. Due to her passion for conservation, she is now a part of the SeaKeepers team as the Director of the South Pacific.