Melissa Leonard

Director, Development
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Melissa brings a diverse background in fundraising, policy and advocacy, and network-building to Horizons National. She values and embraces authentic engagement, intentionality, equity, and cultural humility in her work and life.

Melissa graduated from the University of California at Davis with a B.A. in International Relations, and from the University of New Mexico with a M.A. in Latin American Studies. She is currently working toward her MPA at Indiana University, focusing on Public Policy and Community and Economic Development. She received a fellowship in grants management from Pivotal New Mexico, and earned certificates in diversity, equity, and inclusion and leadership from Indiana University.

Prior to joining the team at Horizons National, Melissa worked in nonprofit consulting and development, supporting local, regional, and national organizations in building campaigns, achieving their fundraising goals, and expanding their programs to best support young people. Most recently, she put her knowledge of fundraising and nonprofit landscapes to work building a grassroots healthcare network across the state of New Mexico to better support families, communities, and Native American Pueblos and Tribes.

In her free time, Melissa enjoys volunteering in her community, tending to her large garden, spending time with her family and pet rabbit, and attempting various home improvement projects.