This week, we proudly spotlight Melissa Graves, a nationally recognized leader with more than 20 years of experience in guiding nonprofit organizations dedicated to vulnerable children and families. On March 4, 2024, Melissa will begin her role as President of The Center for Family Safety and Healing (TCFSH) at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, a position that reflects her lifelong commitment to breaking the cycle of family violence and restoring hope to families affected by abuse.

Melissa Graves’ impressive background speaks volumes about her passion and determination in leading initiatives aimed at safeguarding children and families. Prior to her appointment at TCFSH, she served as CEO of Journey Center for Safety and Healing in Cleveland, Ohio. During her tenure, she launched the first successful child advocacy center in Cuyahoga County, an effort that profoundly impacted the lives of 15,000 women, children, and families who faced child abuse and domestic violence annually. Her dedication to transforming the child protection landscape in Cleveland made her the perfect candidate to lead TCFSH.

Abigail Wexner, Chair of TCFSH’s Board, lauded Graves’ appointment: “Melissa was the perfect choice among a very impressive national field of candidates. She has dedicated herself to this space and has proven herself an effective and passionate agent for change.” Graves’ visionary leadership aligns seamlessly with TCFSH’s mission of addressing violence across the lifespan, offering an exciting new chapter for the organization.

With her experience spanning two decades, Graves has honed her expertise in child advocacy, family services, and community safety. From 2002 to 2016, she held various leadership roles at Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area, serving as its Chief Executive Officer for nine years. There, she oversaw programs ranging from adoption and foster care to refugee resettlement and HIV/AIDS support, directly impacting some of the most vulnerable families in the Washington, D.C. area.

In her new role, Graves will be working closely with local advocates and key community partners, including Franklin County Children’s Services, Columbus Division of Police, Ohio Domestic Violence Network, and Community Shelter Board, to address critical issues like child abuse, domestic violence, elder abuse, and teen dating abuse. Her leadership will help amplify TCFSH’s mission to break the cycle of family violence by fostering partnerships that enhance intervention, prevention, and advocacy across the community.