Melissa joined Xerces in 2022 as Donor Engagement Specialist. A “retired” young farmer, Melissa is the co-founder of Sherrett Food Forest, a regenerative agroforestry site in Portland, Oregon. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Portland State University, and has worked with various conservation non-profits organizations over her career. Her experience working both behind the scenes in admin and development, and in the field as a horticulturist has informed her dedication for preserving biodiversity and protecting ecosystems.