Melany Justice is the Director of People and Operations at Deans for Impact, where she leads initiatives to strengthen organizational development, ensure operational excellence, and cultivate a diverse, inclusive workplace culture. Melany collaborates with leadership to design systems that align talent strategy with the organization's mission to transform educator preparation.
Before joining Deans for Impact, Melany served as Director of Talent Management at EdFuel, where she partnered with education leaders to enhance talent pipelines and improve recruitment, retention, and performance systems. Her career in education began as an elementary school teacher in Delaware, where she implemented data-driven strategies to improve student outcomes. Melany also held key roles at DC Public Schools, including Coordinator of Teacher Selection and Analytics and Strategic Enrollment Initiatives Specialist.
Melany is based in Wilmington, Delaware, and holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Johns Hopkins University and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Public Policy and Black American Studies from the University of Delaware.
Why did you start working in education?
I started working in education because I saw firsthand how opportunities in schooling can shape a person’s future. Growing up, I attended inner-city schools with limited resources, but several teachers took me under their wing, guiding me into more academically rigorous environments. These experiences opened my eyes to the vast inequities in education. While majoring in Black American Studies and Public Policy, I deepened my understanding of these disparities and felt compelled to address them. I wanted to help bridge the gaps and ensure that all students, no matter their background, have the opportunity to succeed and thrive academically.
Describe a teacher or student who made a lasting impact in your life.
I deeply appreciate the many teachers who invested in my academic and personal development. Mr. Masiello, my 6th-grade English teacher, taught us 100 SAT words through a fun song. In 9th grade, Mr. Sobocinski brought history to life. Mr. Morrow, my 10th-grade Economics teacher, encouraged my leadership by sponsoring the first club I led. Mrs. Washington, my 11th-grade Accounting teacher, pushed me to excel, and Mrs. Zimmer, my 12th-grade Business teacher, created a classroom that felt like family. Their collective support shaped who I am today.
What's a principle, philosophy, or quote you live by, and why?
I live by the principle from Luke 12:48, “to whom much is given, much is required,” along with Philippians 3:13, which reminds me to forget what lies behind and to strain toward what is ahead. My educational journey, shaped by fortunate opportunities, compels me to uplift marginalized communities and advocate for equitable access to quality education. These scriptures inspire me to honor my past while striving for a future where all students can succeed, ensuring that the lottery of education works in their favor.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work, I’m all about family—I’m the seventh of eight siblings, so there’s always someone to hang out with or some family event going on. I’m also really involved in my church, which keeps me busy in the best way. When I’m not with family or at church, I’m spending time with friends, traveling to any beach I can find (seriously, sand and sun are my happy place), or unwinding with my guilty pleasure—binging reality shows. It might be a problem… but I’m okay with that!