Melissa Watson Ward

Melissa Watson Ward serves as Affiliate Director for Emerge, where she works to cultivate a more inclusive and representative democracy. She collaborates closely with Emerge’s growing network of state affiliates to help them recruit, train, and support women candidates seeking political office across the nation. Prior to being Affiliate Director, Melissa served as Deputy Affiliate Director and was the founding Executive Director of Emerge South Carolina. 

Melissa’s professional journey has been characterized by her extensive involvement in various fields aimed at making a positive impact on her community’s well-being. Serving in a previous role as the Director of Programs and Operations, Melissa was responsible for overseeing the development and execution of various initiatives within a statewide nonprofit organization working to reduce poverty. With a background in the Alcohol/Drugs, HIV/STI prevention, and diabetes prevention fields, she brings a wealth of experience and knowledge in community programming. Her upbringing in a low-resource community, coupled with her education and experience in Public Health and Social Work, has shaped her passion for working to improve her community. Melissa’s transition into a career in politics furthers her desire to have a direct impact on the people in her community. By aiming to increase diversity among elected officials and decision-makers, she hopes to bring a broader range of perspectives to the table, ultimately fostering a more equitable and just political landscape to serve better the citizens of South Carolina and communities across the nation. 

Melissa’s involvement in the United States Army Reserves demonstrates her commitment to service. She has shown her dedication to social and community activism through her memberships in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and The Links, Incorporated. 

Melissa’s commitment to making a difference has earned her recognition, including being honored as part of the 2021 20 under 40 by the South Carolina Black Pages and The State Newspaper. She has completed several leadership programs, including the Dorothy I. Height Global Leadership Academy, Modjeska Simkins School of Social Justice, Leadership South Carolina, and the Sisters’ of Charity Nonprofit Leadership Program. Melissa holds a Master of Public Health, Master of Social Work, and Bachelor in Experimental Psychology and Criminology and Criminal Justice from The University of South Carolina, as well as a certificate in Political Social Work from the University of Michigan. She is also a Licensed Master Social Worker and a certified Master Trainer through the Association of Talent Development.

Melissa’s personal mantra is “Saving the world, one person at a time”.