Melanie Richardson
Melanie Richardson is a native New Orleanian who has been working in the fields of mental health and education for over 20 years. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame, her Masters in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Specialist in Community College Teaching from Arkansas State University. Melanie is committed to educating families and professionals and removing institutional disincentives, impediments, and other barriers in order to increase the academic success of minority and low-income students. By creating and implementing innovative and proactive programming designed to provide resources, social services and academic support, Melanie has witnessed first-hand how people will prosper when given unconditional support.

Christine Neely
Christine Neely has been in the field of Education for over 20 years and has always worked to improve standards and provide resources to families and students. A New York Native, she received her undergraduate degree from Tulane University and remained in New Orleans to receive her Master’s in Education from Loyola University. Christine has spent over 15 years serving as lead teacher in grades PK-3rd while working closely with administration to mentor new teachers, develop curriculum and make the switch to Common Core. Her time in the informal education sector as Public Programs Manager for Audubon Zoo and most recently as the Education Director of the Louisiana Children’s Museum allowed her the opportunity to implement different community based approaches to foster early childhood development and parental support. Christine has presented at national conferences and conducted workshops about literacy development, hands on education, and Brain Architecture and Mind in The Making Seven Essential Skills. She volunteers her time serving New Orleans Kids Partnership, is an active member of P.E.O International which promotes educational opportunities for women worldwide.