Melanie (Mel) was born and raised in Crystal Falls, Michigan and moved to Marquette, Michigan to attend Northern Michigan University where she graduated with a degree in Public Relations. After graduation, Mel began working at the Upper Peninsula Health Plan (UPHP) and has now been with UPHP for over 20 years. Mel currently serves the plan as Chief Operating Officer, her ninth position held within the company. She is a Resident Life and Health Producer in the State of Michigan, is Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC), is a Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS), and a member of the Health Care Compliance Association (HCCA). Melanie also serves on the Upper Peninsula Michigan Works Workforce Development Board and is a member of the Zonta Club of Marquette. Melanie resides in Marquette with her husband Adam, where they enjoy running, biking and the outdoors in general.