Germanna welcomes Ms. Melissa Leecy (pronounced Lee-see) as its first Vice President for Community Engagement. In this role, she will oversee fundraising efforts and further strengthen Germanna's relationships with the community. Ms. Leecy is passionate about her personal mission, saying, “When I read the job description, I thought, ‘whoa, it marries so much of my experience!’ The job really spoke to me. It’s a combination of the best of all the jobs I’ve had.”
Ms. Leecy brings a wealth of experience to Germanna. A graduate of Mary Baldwin College in Staunton, Virginia, she earned bachelor’s degrees in English and history in 1996, followed by a master’s degree in education (counseling psychology) in 1998. She began her career serving students in residence life for over a decade before transitioning to philanthropy in 2007 as a Major Gifts Officer for her alma mater. She later became the Director of Major Gifts.
Since then, Ms. Leecy has held leadership roles with several organizations and institutions, including the University of Virginia, PBS, United Way, and Lutheran Family Services of Virginia.
“I received a scholarship for college—almost the full ride—for Mary Baldwin, and I was so grateful,” she says as she reflects on her own journey. “So, my mission is one that I understand. To be able to provide that opportunity to others is a privilege. No one can take away an education. It changes lives. And look at a community college, at the impact we can have. It’s so very real.”
Over the past 17 years, Ms. Leecy has positively impacted thousands of lives by connecting donors with organizations that support children, adults, and families across Virginia. She is eager to continue this work at Germanna, adding, “I admire the College’s focus on putting the community first. As they say, a rising tide lifts all boats – which we do through connecting community resources to our students for their education. When our neighbors are stronger, we’re all stronger.”
Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. Leecy enjoys spending her free time outdoors—gardening, walking, and swimming—and treasures time with her family. A fan of antiques, she collects vintage Rolling Stones albums and Blenko glass. Ms. Leecy resides in Ashland, Virginia with her husband, Angus McQueen, and their shared neighborhood cat, Tickle, who prefers their porch. She also admits to a passion for NASCAR and vintage Star Wars movies.
As Germanna continues to innovate and grow, Ms. Leecy is excited to engage with the College’s community. “I can’t wait to meet you and hear your Germanna story!” she says.