Melissa Thomas Proctor, CEO and Executive Director

Public Health Professional and Social Advocate

Melissa Thomas Proctor aka “Missy” is a dedicated public health expert with a rich and diverse career spanning over several decades. With a comprehensive educational background including a Master of Social Work (M.S.W.), a Master of Science in Family and Child Development, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Melissa has established a profound expertise in fostering community health and well-being. She is trained as a Moral Reconation Therapy-MRT Facilitator (Correctional Counseling, Inc.-CCI) for inmates in the correctional justice system and received certification in Trauma-Informed Care (CCI). Additionally, Melissa is a Certified Human Services Professional (HSP) for the State of Georgia’s Department of Human Services, Division of Family and Children Services.

With a foundation rooted in direct, substance use, and social work counseling and HIV prevention, treatment, and care, Melissa has served in pivotal roles within leading health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA). Notably, Missy served as a Liaison Resident Advisor for the CDC in Tanzania (IETA Fellow), playing a vital role in strengthening the epidemiologic and laboratory capacities of health professionals across various levels.

As a Public Health Analyst (PHA) and Project Officer (PO) for over 25 years, she demonstrated exemplary leadership overseeing national initiatives focused on HIV prevention, care, and treatment, and health education within health departments and community-based organizations. With a keen eye for program development and oversight, Missy effectively managed multi-million-dollar budgets, conducted comprehensive site visits, and collaborated with diverse stakeholders to ensure impactful program implementation.

Prior experience as a Program Director and Primary Counselor, she was involved as a change agent in an innovative inpatient drug treatment program for substance-using women and their children in Washington, DC. Missy’s commitment to holistic care and advocacy for marginalized communities shines through in every facet of their career. 

During her tenure as Chief of the Counseling and Testing Services Division for the District of Columbia, she and her staff orchestrated a citywide HIV/AIDS counseling and testing program, demonstrating exceptional leadership, budgetary acumen, and a steadfast commitment to community health. 

Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her strategic vision, unwavering dedication to public health, and advocacy for underserved populations. With a robust background in program management, budget oversight, and community engagement, Missy consistently championed initiatives aimed at enhancing public health outcomes and fostering resilient, empowered communities.