Housing Leadership Council Board of Directors-Melissa Arden

Melissa is the Chief Planning Officer for the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County. She is responsible for the implementation and evaluation of community planning priorities within the mission of the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County. Melissa oversees Federation’s Community Strategy and Planning department, and her portfolio includes serving as the central liaison for community agencies, programs, and initiatives locally and overseas.

In addition, among the initiatives under Melissa’s leadership are Federation’s financial incentive and scholarship programs, Career and Community Resources, Jewish Disabilities Network, and Federation’s Partnership Program in Israel.

Prior to joining Federation 8 years ago, Melissa practiced labor and employment law in the public and private sectors. First, as an Assistant Corporation Counsel in the City of Chicago’s Law Department, then as in-house Employment Counsel for a public company with subsidiaries across the United States. Melissa is a proud gator, having graduated with honors from the University of Florida.