Melissa Harris
Independence
Summary
Experienced professional bringing several years' success in spiritual leadership to growing church. Adept in building integrated long-term plans guiding ministries in educational and spiritual formation. Ready to bring expertise in organizational management, program administration and community outreach to growing church.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Family and Discipleship Minister
Hickory Grove Baptist Church
Independence
06.2021 - Current
- Organized church events, enhancing member participation and fellowship.
- Collaborated with church leadership on strategic planning initiatives.
- Provided pastoral care to members during times of crisis or loss.
- Managed volunteer teams for various church ministries and activities.
- Provided pastoral counseling to individuals in need of guidance or comfort.
- Created Bible study classes to help people grow spiritually.
- Encouraged members of the congregation to serve their communities through volunteer work.
- Devised and implemented congregational membership expansion tactics.
- Instructed and guided individuals converting to new faith.
- Referred families and individuals to community support services, psychologists, or doctors for necessary care.
- Drafted articles and delivered speeches to share information about religious issues.
Children’s Minister
Hickory Grove Baptist Church
Independence
09.2008 - 06.2021
Early Childcare Center Director
Hickory Grove Baptist Church
Independence
09.2008 - 06.2018
- Managed staff recruitment, training, and performance evaluations for educators.
- Developed age-appropriate curriculum fostering child development and learning.
- Oversaw budget management, ensuring allocation of resources for center activities.
- Implemented health and safety protocols maintaining a secure environment for children.
- Coordinated communication between parents and staff addressing concerns promptly.
- Facilitated community partnerships enhancing resources available to families in need.
- Collaborated with other childcare centers in the area to promote best practices among early childhood educators.
- Ensured all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and submitted in a timely manner.
- Attended workshops or seminars related to early childhood education topics.
- Scheduled activities for children in accordance with state licensing requirements.
- Managed daily operations of the childcare center, including overseeing staff and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Handled customer service inquiries from parents regarding their children's needs or experiences at the center.
- Assisted in recruiting qualified personnel to work at the childcare center as needed.
- Developed and implemented policies and procedures for the center to ensure safety and quality standards are met.
- Provided guidance, support, and training to teachers on classroom management strategies, curriculum development, and teaching methods.
Education
Bachelor of Arts -
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY12-2025
Psychology
Asbury University
Wilmore, KYSome College (No Degree) - Early Childhood Care And Education
Gateway Community Technical College
EdgewoodSkills
- Project management
- Volunteer coordination
- Curriculum development
- Child development knowledge
- Effective communication
- Team building
- Strategic leadership
- Church growth strategies
- Organizational skills
- Problem-solving
- Time management abilities
- Event planning
- Inspirational leadership
- Reliability
- Relationship building
- Public speaking
- Attention to detail
- Mission-oriented
Timeline
Family and Discipleship Minister
Hickory Grove Baptist Church
06.2021 - Current
Children’s Minister
Hickory Grove Baptist Church
09.2008 - 06.2021
Early Childcare Center Director
Hickory Grove Baptist Church
09.2008 - 06.2018
Bachelor of Arts -
Eastern Kentucky University
Psychology
Asbury University
Some College (No Degree) - Early Childhood Care And Education
Gateway Community Technical College