Mel started her career as a first grade teacher and journalist. A meeting at the Boston Marathon led to an interview for an entry level job at Nike. She spent 17 years there, where she led businesses including Nike Women and Nike Skateboarding, and worked on the launch of the Nike Running and Training Club apps. In 2019, she left and co-founded venture capital firm, NEXT VENTURES, which focuses on early stage investments across health and wellness companies like Oura ring and Outside Inc. She serves on the boards of Cofertility, Ramble Campgrounds, Sage Hospitality, Outdoor Afro, and USA Cycling. When she’s not traveling, you can find her mountain biking on the trails in Hood River Oregon.