Melen is a native of Sacramento where she graduated from California State University, Sacramento with her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. She has been working in non-profit for over 10 years and have developed experiences in managing and overseeing multiple projects, organizing culturally appropriate educational workshops and developing cooperative relationships with community organizations and service providers. Melen joined NAMI California in July 2014 and now serves as the VP of Programs and Services where she represents NAMI California to reduce health and mental health care disparities and integrate cultural and linguistic competency throughout the mental health/behavioral health systems.