Melissa Paul has spent her professional career in service to bettering our communities through education and youth development. She has worked in a variety of educational settings including public and private schools and in the nonprofit sector.
As Hartford Promise’s director – college partnerships and reaching forward, she cultivates and manages partner college relationships, building and maintaining a vibrant scholar community and supporting scholars toward college success.
What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career?
Helping to usher hundreds of first-generation college students through their uncharted paths to success is my biggest accomplishment. I have designed a program that adapts to our scholars’ individual needs and guides them toward their unique goals and accomplishments
How are you involved in the community?
While the work I do at Hartford Promise has a direct impact on the Greater Hartford community, I also serve on the board of directors for the Little Theatre of Manchester. In addition, I am involved in my children’s school communities in both Hartford and West Hartford.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I love the performing arts. I have been in productions with numerous theatre groups throughout the state and have sung professionally in venues all over the Northeast. I enjoy spending time with my family, being out in the summer sun and baking delicious treats to share.
Why do you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty?
• Facilitated meaningful and effective partnerships with area colleges that support the success of Hartford students.
• Provide safe space for scholars and colleagues to turn when they need to be heard.
• Committed to increasing diversity and equity in Connecticut theatre organizations both on and off stage.
• Co-founded the longest running all-female a cappella group in Cape Cod, 16 years and counting.
Fun Fact
I’ve been performing in contemporary a cappella groups for 20 years.
Theme Song
“Unwritten” — Natasha Bedingfield
Bucket List
What are two things that you would like to achieve before you turn 40?
I want to grow the Hartford Promise Alumni Network to provide mentoring, networking, social connection and cement a legacy in the Hartford community. I’d also like to record a jazz album.
Click here to return to HBJ’s 2022 40 Under Forty Award Honorees