Get to know the Foundation Team

Melissa serves as the Executive Director of the Marcella Foundation, where she leads the organization’s work in food security, literacy, and youth mentorship. As the founding director, she has shaped the Foundation’s direction from day one by creating FeedTahoe, launching the Imagination Library countywide, and developing the Fannan Fellowship program. Melissa previously founded Lift Literature and worked in financial management of environmental restoration projects across Lake Tahoe. She holds a BA in Business Administration from St. Mary’s College and an MPA from CSU Chico. A mom of three boys, Melissa is passionate about big ideas and building the connections to make them happen - from helping every child learn to read to reducing hunger and inspiring young entrepreneurs.

Kele Song serves as the Director of Strategy at the Marcella Foundation, where she spearheads the development of the organization's strategic initiatives. With a background as a seasoned Product Manager in Silicon Valley, Kele brings a deep-seated passion for innovation and problem-solving to her role. Equipped with a bachelor's degree in journalism and communications, coupled with a master's degree in public policy, Kele possesses a formidable skill set in strategic planning. Her expertise ensures that the Foundation remains agile and effective in achieving its mission.

Lily joins the Foundation with a passion for sustainability and community engagement, and is using that to guide FeedTahoe initiatives. After working as a California Climate Actions Corps Fellow in South Lake Tahoe focused on food waste diversion, she is transitioning to edible food recovery to help feed those in need. She graduated from the University of California, Davis with a BS in Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning, grounding her work approach in stewardship and advocacy. Lily is excited to couple climate expertise with relationship building and planning to help FeedTahoe grow and thrive.

Serial opener-of-makerspaces, Joseph joined the Marcella Foundation to lead the development of our makerspace. His maker journey began as a student technician, helping to launch American University’s Design and Build Lab. Since then he's founded two makerspaces at Coastal Carolina University and contributed to Case Western Reserve University’s Sears think[box]. Outside of work, Joseph is an avid outdoorsman who seizes every opportunity for an ambitious adventure, whether it’s mountain biking, kayaking, or camping off the beaten path.