Prior to founding Phase Two, Melinda was the assistant director at the Community College Research Center (CCRC), Teachers College, Columbia University. At CCRC, Melinda led a large portfolio of studies focused on community college and high school reform. She was also responsible for building CCRC’s internal functions, including managing professional development, strategic planning, and external relations.

Melinda holds a B.S. in human development and family studies from Cornell University; an M.A. in sociology and education from Teachers College, Columbia University; and a Ph.D. in sociology and education from Columbia University.