Melissa Johnson

Melissa Johnson
(she/her)
Grants and Scholarships Coordinator
(231) 935-4066 ext. 104
mjohnson@gtrcf.org

Areas of Expertise 

Grants and scholarship management, program development and coordination

Biography

Melissa brings more than 15 years of experience in regional nonprofit and community-based work to the Community Foundation. She has a background in arts education, program development, and building partnerships that connect people and strengthen communities, previously serving as Executive Director of Blackbird Arts and Education Manager at Glen Arbor Arts Center and Arts for All of Northern MI. Melissa holds a Master's degree in Education from DePaul University and a Master of Arts in Archaeology from the University of Illinois-Chicago. She joined the Community Foundation in 2026,

When she’s not working, Melissa is usually outside—hiking, kayaking, or digging in the dirt. She enjoys finding trails that lead to Lake Michigan and exploring the region one back road at a time. Cedar Hedge Lake, where she lives, is a favorite place to wander, and she’s always up for catching some local art or music.

Causes She's Passionate About

Arts and culture, education and youth development, equity

Favorite Places in the Region

"I love exploring with a paper map in hand and seeing where it takes me—preferably somewhere with a trail, a lake, or something slightly unexpected. Cedar Hedge Lake is one of my favorite places, as are the many trails throughout Sleeping Bear Dunes. I enjoy keeping an eye out for the wonderfully weird things nature has to offer."