projects
Explore a few projects that incorporated ux-ui, graphic design, front-end web development, multimedia production, cross-functional collaboration, communications and marketing.
web development
Platform Upgrade & Redesign
Objective: Modernizing Digital Infrastructure for a Federal Agency
Roles:
- Collaborated with agency stakeholders, CIO's design and development teams to transform a complex digital ecosystem into a modern, accessible experience.
- Led cross-bureau coordination during major organizational transitions—partnering with program managers and CIO teams to ensure thousands of web pages were accurately updated and seamlessly aligned with new structures.
- Trained mission and bureau staff to use the updated Drupal content management system.
Testimonial
"During her work at the US Agency for International Development, Melissa demonstrated a rare combination of technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and a deep understanding of the bureaus' diverse communication needs. She worked closely with cross-functional teams around the world to streamline content, improve navigation, and ensure design consistency is aligned with the Agency's branding and accessibility standards."
Cross-functional Collaboration
Objective: Facilitate Drupal Training for Content Owners
Roles:
- Co-create training materials with staff trainer to provide resources for content owners using updated Drupal CMS.
- Provide live tutorials with groups of program managers and content owners in each bureau.
- Meet individually with bureaus requesting customization of their subsites to ensure alignment with Agency's branding and accessibility standards.
Testimonial
"Melissa is a joy to work with! During our time together at USAID, Melissa managed several projects for me and ensured deliverables were organized and on time. One of my favorite parts about working with Melissa is that she will jump on a task anytime. There were several instances where I was swamped and Melissa stepped in to help seamlessly and quickly. I hope to work with her again in the future."
Customized Digital Experience
Objective: Tailor-made Website for Mental Health Therapist
Role:
- Translate client's vision into engaging digital experience
- Conceptualize branding and color palettes
- Execute content strategy, responsive design, and SEO implementation
Testimonial
"Melissa was able to bring my vision to life— listening carefully to my ideas and delivering far beyond my expectations with her own ingenuity, creativity and mastery. A true joy to work with in every aspect: professionalism, timeliness and efficiency, thoughtfulness and thoroughness."
digital storytelling
Multimedia Production
Objective: Designing Digital Learning Environments
Roles:
- Collaborated with educators, subject matter experts, game developers and videographers to enhance interactivity of content on an educational website.
- Produced educational videos from raw field footage and images to supplement lesson plans. Managed full technical lifecycle, including file format conversion, video editing, and integrated audio production.
- Designed and produced audio assets—including podcasts, translated narratives, and language lessons. Managed complete audio production workflow: conducting in-person and remote voice recordings, performing audio editing, and ensuring deployment to final destinations.
Testimonial
"Melissa's unique combination of creative vision, strategic thinking, and strong technical skills, highlighted by her unwavering commitment to consistently go the extra mile, made an immeasurable impact on our organization's success. She produced a series of podcasts and videos featuring volunteer stories, which significantly deepened the Peace Corps connection with schools and brought our mission to life for a wider audience. Melissa also demonstrated exceptional skill in creating interactive educational modules, enabling educators to implement our programs more effectively in the classroom."
AI assistance
Vibe Coding
Objective: Converse with AI Assistant to Redesign Online Portfolio
Case study: To investigate how AI assistants can enhance content creation within human-in-the-loop workflows, I redesigned the UX/UI and published this online portfolio using a "vibe coding" approach.
Roles:
- Explored and implemented AI-assisted tools to accelerate content creation, design iteration, and digital production workflows.
- Designed human-in-the-loop processes to maintain quality, accuracy, and creative integrity while leveraging AI capabilities.
communications & marketing
Promote Educational Resources
Objective: Develop & Implement Strategic Marketing Plans
Roles:
- Identified and secured digital and print placements, social media channels, and national education conferences to amplify product visibility.
- Designed and produced artworks, e-newsletters, ads, brochures, pamphlets, and publications for print and online distribution.
- Conducted workshops at national and local education conferences; represented the program at exhibit booths; and facilitated online meetings.
Testimonial
"Melissa was an innovative and invaluable member of our Peace Corps World Wise Schools team. She played a vital role in our marketing and outreach efforts, presenting at education conferences where she successfully introduced our products to educators. Her work at the district and state levels in Delaware helped to establish key partnerships and the statewide adoption of World Wise Schools resources."