Melissa Gregg is the kind of leader who shows up when it matters most. During one of the most challenging times I’ve experienced professionally—when both my Nurse Manager and MNSA were out on leave—I was also navigating an unexpected family emergency. I was trying to hold everything together, and Melissa made sure I didn’t have to do it alone. She checked in on me often, not just to talk about work, but to genuinely ask how I was doing. She made me feel supported, heard, and seen as a person first and a leader second. Even in the middle of significant operational demands, she never lost sight of the human side of leadership. That balance is rare, and it speaks volumes about her integrity, commitment, and heart.

She also leads with empathy in a way that is real and deeply felt. She intentionally carved out time to meet with me every single day and made herself available whenever I needed support, guidance, or reassurance. Her calm presence and steady encouragement brought a sense of stability during a time that could have easily felt overwhelming and isolating. She reminded me—often without even saying it—that I wasn’t alone and that it was okay to ask for help. The hope she instills doesn’t come from big speeches; it comes from her consistency, her kindness, and the way she truly shows up for people.

One of the things I value most about Melissa’s leadership is the way she takes time to explain the why behind decisions. That means more than she probably realizes—especially to someone like me whose brain needs context and connection (and sometimes a little extra help linking all the dots). Her transparency builds trust and confidence, even in difficult situations. She approaches challenges with curiosity rather than blame, asking thoughtful questions and creating space to learn instead of fear of getting it wrong. Because of this, I feel supported to grow, lead, and keep moving forward—even when things feel heavy.

Melissa is incredibly intentional about building relationships and supporting growth across all levels of leadership. She reaches out with purpose, making connections and ensuring people feel guided, supported, and valued. She follows up consistently and approaches conversations with a mindset of understanding rather than judgment. Because of her, people feel safe to speak up, learn, and grow. Melissa has a way of making people feel seen in moments when they might otherwise feel invisible, and that kind of inclusive leadership has a lasting impact on individuals, teams, and ultimately the care we provide.