Melissa is the Animal Care & Compliance Programs Manager at Clemens Food Group. She applied for the Emerging Leaders Program to gain a deeper understanding of the legislative aspects of the pork industry and expand her professional network in Pennsylvania.

With a strong passion for animal welfare, Melissa envisions herself continuing in a leadership role over the next five years, further advancing her career in animal care and compliance.

Inspired by motherhood, Melissa is driven to grow her career so she can one day share her passion for animal agriculture and the pork industry with her daughter. Her advice to young professionals is to explore the many career opportunities within the pork industry, keep an open mind, and take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way.

When it comes to enjoying pork, her favorite dish is fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs slow-cooked with BBQ sauce and cherry jam preserves—served over noodles or rice for a flavorful meal.