Melissa Nelson
President & CEO
United Way of Florida
Melissa Nelson is President/CEO of United Way of Florida, the collaborative organization of Florida’s 29 local United Ways. Bringing together many voices for one mission, the network is a strong, united and inclusive system that facilitates mutual aid, education and capacity building for communities spanning all 67 counties in Florida. She is Florida’s primary connection to the United Way Worldwide, the UWW Council of States and its global network of 1000 local United Ways and affiliates.
Long known as a passionate community advocate, Melissa embraced the mission of United Way over ten years ago as President and CEO of United Way of St. Johns, which serves Putnam and St. Johns Counties. She quickly understood the power created when residents, businesses, governments, and nonprofits come together to meet the most pressing social service issues in local communities. Joining United Way of Florida in 2022 allowed Melissa to expand her impact to all of Florida, by fostering relationships and leading partnerships that transcend city or county boundaries.
Melissa brought her background in nonprofit management when she became part of the United Way network, including experience working with local Chamber of Commerce organizations in Florida and Pennsylvania, and within professional associations including the American Institute of Architects and the Orange County Medical Society, both in Orlando.
An avid traveler who has loved visiting beaches across the world, Melissa remains true to her Northeast Florida roots. Growing up on Amelia Island and spending most of her adult life in, and around, St. Augustine, Florida’s First Coast holds her heart. She finds nothing more rejuvenating than a good book, a glass of bubbly, and toes in the sand -- especially when joined by Monty, her miniature long-hair doxy.
Long known as a passionate community advocate, Melissa embraced the mission of United Way over ten years ago as President and CEO of United Way of St. Johns, which serves Putnam and St. Johns Counties. She quickly understood the power created when residents, businesses, governments, and nonprofits come together to meet the most pressing social service issues in local communities. Joining United Way of Florida in 2022 allowed Melissa to expand her impact to all of Florida, by fostering relationships and leading partnerships that transcend city or county boundaries.
Melissa brought her background in nonprofit management when she became part of the United Way network, including experience working with local Chamber of Commerce organizations in Florida and Pennsylvania, and within professional associations including the American Institute of Architects and the Orange County Medical Society, both in Orlando.
An avid traveler who has loved visiting beaches across the world, Melissa remains true to her Northeast Florida roots. Growing up on Amelia Island and spending most of her adult life in, and around, St. Augustine, Florida’s First Coast holds her heart. She finds nothing more rejuvenating than a good book, a glass of bubbly, and toes in the sand -- especially when joined by Monty, her miniature long-hair doxy.
