Biography
Melissa Thrasher graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in journalism and an emphasis in broadcasting. She received her master’s degree in communications from Wayne State University.
Thrasher began her career as a public relations practitioner at PGC Campbell, a communications firm, where she conducted public relations for the Detroit Police Athletic League, Ford Motor Company and the UAW. Thrasher moved on to serve as a public relations practitioner for the Southeast Michigan Community Alliance, a quasi-government organization where she organized events and wrote newsworthy stories to help promote workforce development and substance abuse programs.
She later served as the communications director for the Southeast Michigan American Heart Association, where she oversaw media relations for nationally recognized campaigns, including Go Red For Women and Power to End Stroke. Thrasher is credited for launching multicultural awareness campaigns, securing robust media sponsorships, coordinating statewide Twitter Chats, and launching the “Art for Heart” program.
After her stint at the Association, she served as a hospital communications manager for Beaumont Health, where she oversaw communication specialists and supported the system's diversity and foundation initiatives.
Thrasher then served as a senior public relations specialist for Ascension hospitals in southeast Michigan. This was a pivotal time in her career, as the nation was dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Currently, she is the executive director of media relations and social media for Eastern Michigan University.
Thrasher’s accomplishments include countless story placements, executing award-winning events and the first Pulse Awards – Excellence in Cardiovascular Media for the American Heart Association. She's also noted for her work in the multicultural space, including the launch of Gift of Life's "Let’s Talk" campaign.