By: Emma Cannon

We want to take a moment to give a massive shoutout to Melissa Reese, our Fort Collins affiliate, who will, unfortunately, be retiring from her role as an Affiliate. Melissa, one of the original crop of ISTG Affiliates, has been volunteering with the organization for over nine years.

I checked in with a few folks from the ISTG family about Melissa’s time with ISTG, which began 20 years before our incorporation as a nonprofit. At the Rochester Institute of Technology, our Founder and Executive Director, Dana Marlowe, met Melissa while they were both students.

“Mel, when we met at college in 1996, neither of us had any way of knowing the extraordinary impact we would one day have on women in need. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for messaging me back in 2016 to join me on this journey. We wouldn’t be where we are today without you. You are a powerhouse and have had so much positive impact in your community.” -Dana Marlowe, Founder & Executive Director

Left to right: Melissa Reese (ISTG – Fort Collins), Erin Persaud (Director of Operations & ISTG – Denver), and Tess Key (ISTG – Colorado Springs) at the 2019 Affiliate Retreat.

She has worked with over 60 organizations in Fort Collins, donating 453,134 essential items to people in need in her community. Melissa even brought our Director of Operations, Erin Persaud, to the organization.

“I can’t believe it’s been 9 years since you brought me into this organization! You are such an inspiration with your activism, connections, calm demeanor, and excellent advice. I have appreciated working with you, meeting occasionally for lunch (I hope that continues!), and getting products out in our beautiful state. Please keep in touch, and thank you again SO SO much for all your hard work! (And for giving so much of your basement and time to ISTG). I’ll miss you!” -Erin Persaud, Director of Operations

Without Melissa’s hard work, it is not an exaggeration to say that we truly would not be where we are today. We are incredibly grateful to her for everything she has done.

Melissa at the 2022 Affiliate Retreat.

Left to right: Justin Key (ISTG – Colorado Springs), Tess Key (ISTG – Colorado Springs), Erin Persaud (Director of Operations & ISTG- Denver), and Melissa Reese (ISTG – Fort Collins) at the 2022 Affiliate Retreat.