Rev. Melissa A. Maher is an accomplished leader with over 20 years of experience in pastoral leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement. She entered full-time ministry after a brief career in corporate banking. Her passion is to bridge the life of the church with the opportunities and assets of neighborhoods. Currently serving as the Director of Leadership Vitality at the Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, Rev. Maher guides staff and teams in implementing impactful programs for both clergy and laity across the conference. Her previous role as Lead Pastor at Mercy Street Church showcased her ability to foster a safe harbor of hope and restoration, designing and leading weekly worship services, and managing partnerships with numerous organizations to promote health, justice, and mercy. Rev. Maher holds a Master of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Louisiana Tech University. She has conducted independent studies on micro-finance in Zimbabwe, served on the board of HAPI in Haiti, and led over 20 short-term mission teams across various countries. Rev. Maher is a dynamic speaker, known for her strategic insights and dedication to community empowerment. She brings a wealth of experience and a passion for fostering sustainable development and transformational leadership.