Melissa Bird is the Associate Director of Entrepreneurship Strategic Partnerships and Programs at the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families. In this role, she supports numerous Entrepreneurship & Small Business portfolio initiatives through program management, stakeholder management, special events, and other partner-related projects and initiatives.

Her background spans 15+ years of experience working with cross functional teams for iconic global brands including ESPN, the National Weather Center, the New York Mets, Walt Disney World, and other major league and minor league sports organizations. Most recently, Melissa led her own business, MB2 Communications, specializing in project management, special events, and crisis communications.

Melissa has a diverse academic background, with a bachelor’s degree in journalism & public relations, and MBA in sports management. She also served as an Adjunct Instructor at the University of Oklahoma and Guest Lecturer at St. John’s University, is a Certified Project Manager, and military spouse.