Melissa LaMarca Ferraro, DEL

Melissa joined the Washington Health System Foundation in December 2025, where she plays a key role in shaping short- and long-term strategies for grantmaking and grant writing, fostering community partnerships, and overseeing the foundation’s grantmaking operations. 

She earned a Doctorate in Executive Leadership from the University of Charleston, a Master’s in Organizational Leadership, and a Bachelor’s in Behavioral Science from Point Park University. With more than 20 years of leadership experience in social justice, trauma-informed care, human services, fundraising, and nonprofit operations, Melissa brings a wealth of expertise to her role. 

Outside of work, Melissa enjoys life with her two adult children and three quirky dogs.