About Melissa

Hi There, I'm Melissa

I was widowed when I was nine months pregnant and recognized that life-altering day, that God gifted me a new opportunity to serve, share love, and uplift those in need. I decided to utilize my personal story as a springboard to educate, encourage, and empower others, aiming to set a powerful tone which showcases resiliency and continued momentum. I actively share my message by encouraging authentic leadership, inspiration, and resolution.

As President of the National Coalition for Safer Roads (NCSR), Founder and President of The Mark Wandall Foundation, a driving force behind the passage of Florida’s Mark Wandall Traffic Safety Act, and an ambassador for Target Zero Florida and supporter of all Vision Zero initiatives, I channel my passion, expertise, and skills to inspire and empower others—amplifying collective efforts toward meaningful, lasting impact.

I am not just an Advocate. I am YOUR Advocate.

I Believe that Authenticity Fosters Empowerment

Today, my passion lies in building strong, organized advocates. I have created the “Universal Approach to the 5 Stages of Advocacy” that will incite both organizations and individuals to act! I guide others to take strength from challenges faced, learn from them, and make positive choices that will impact and benefit the lives of others.

“Out of the wreck, I rise.”

Guardian of Life award

My Book Along with Books I've Been Featured In

Remember, Advocacy Matters!

Washington DC March 2023! Melissa & advocates from around the country at the League of American Bicyclists – Summit 2023.
The goal of building a Bicycle Friendly America for everyone! Participated in Lobby Days which allowed us to go to the Capitol to meet with local policymakers.

Professional Bio

Melissa is a pioneering leader whose ability to connect with others drives meaningful change. Her work ignites creativity and empowers individuals and organizations to achieve their goals, all while championing a message of love, resilience, and forward momentum. Working as a catalyst for change in public safety and advocacy, Melissa played a pivotal role in passing Florida’s Mark Wandall Traffic Safety Act, which authorizes the use of red-light safety cameras to reduce traffic violations and prevent crashes. This crucial legislation has saved lives by raising awareness and by curbing negligent driving behaviors.

Now serving as President of the National Coalition for Safer Roads (NCSR), Melissa continues to be a leading voice in transportation safety. NCSR equips survivor advocates of traffic-related tragedies with the essential tools and resources they need to drive impactful action and create lasting change toward ending road violence. In addition to her work with NCSR, Melissa is an active Coalition member for Alert Today Florida, supporting the implementation of Florida’s Pedestrian and Bicycle Strategic Safety Plan. She also serves as an ambassador for Target Zero Florida and passionately advocates for all Vision Zero initiatives, remaining fully committed to the goal of eliminating all roadway tragedies.

Beyond traffic safety, Melissa provides compassionate support and vital resources to grieving youth across Florida who have faced the death of a parent, sibling, or guardian. In memory of her late husband, Mark, and in honor of their daughter, Madisyn Grace, Melissa founded The Mark Wandall Foundation. Her non-profit guides these youth through their journey of loss, helping them find healing, resilience, and hope.

Relentless, engaging, and deeply driven, Melissa leverages her personal story as a catalyst for valuable change. Widely recognized as a dynamic presenter and trusted advocacy consultant to top insurance companies, government agencies, and business leaders, her authenticity resonates with audiences—igniting inspiration, purpose, and action. Melissa’s passion for public safety and community well-being is unwavering. Her authentic leadership and purpose-driven motivation continue to inspire others, while creating lasting impact and transforming countless lives.

 

AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

  • 2024 GHSA – Governors Highway Safety Association – Peter K. ORourke Special Achievements Award
  • 2023 Guardian of Life Award
  • 2022 The Mark Wandall Foundation, Finalist, Manatee Chamber’s, non-profit category, 42nd Annual Small Business of the Year Award
  • 2021 Vision Zero Hero (Gulf Coast Safe Streets Summit)
  • 2021 Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization
  • 2020 Community Partner Award
  • 2018 SRQ2 Local Philanthropic Hero Award
  • 2018 (November) MADD SuperHero
  • 2018 Professional Women in Advocacy Nominee – Excellence in Advocacy by an Up and Coming Advocate
  • 2018 Professional Women in Advocacy Nominee – Excellence in Advocacy for a Controversial Issue Campaign
  • 2017 Professional Women in Advocacy Nominee – Excellence in Advocacy Up and Coming Practitioner
  • 2016 Distinguished Service to Safety Award Winner – The National Safety Council
  • 2016 Professional Women in Advocacy Nominee – Excellence in a State Issue Campaign
  • 2013 President of the National Coalition for Safer Roads
  • 2012 State Farm “WHERE ARE THEY NOW” Award
  • 2011 Bay News 9 EVERYDAY HERO Award
  • 2010 Instrumental in the passage of the Mark Wandall Traffic Safety Act
  • 2010 State Farm Embrace Life Award
  • 2008 MDRT Main Platform Speaker
  • 2008 Sara Griffin Hughes Award
  • 2006 Real Life Story Recipient by the Life Foundation / Newsweek
  • 2004 Founded The Mark Wandall Foundation