Melanie holds bachelor's degrees in Mortuary Science and Anthropology, with additional graduate coursework in Thanatology, the study of death, dying, and bereavement. Her professional background, combined with a passion for cemetery preservation and service to families, provides a unique perspective in caring for both the cemetery and the community it serves.

In addition to assisting families with burial planning, Melanie is committed to preserving the cemetery's history, improving records, expanding educational outreach, and maintaining Mound Cemetery as a welcoming place for remembrance and reflection.
 
Outside of the cemetery, Melanie enjoys long-distance hiking and has completed several thru-hikes of Minnesota's Superior Hiking Trail and the Border Route Trail. If Melanie is out of the office, she is probably out on the trail.