Melissa Cullen

Melissa Cullen’s background is a rich blend of cultures, with her father’s Sicilian and Italian heritage and her mother’s Portuguese and Cape Verdean roots. Growing up in a lively household as the middle child of eight siblings, she learned the value of family and community. Her early years in Brighton, Massachusetts, were followed by a move to Newton, MA, where her family settled in a neighborhood filled with other large families. This close-knit community provided a sense of belonging and support that shaped Melissa’s outlook on life.

Influenced by her brothers, Demetrius and Richard, her interest in sports and leadership grew. Demetrius, the eldest, became a basketball star in the 1980s, which inspired her to try out for track and gymnastics. She later became co-captain of her cheerleading team for two years. Richard, the youngest of her siblings, pursued a professional athletic career and appeared on several magazine covers. Despite these positive influences, Melissa faced challenges growing up as the only Black family in the neighborhood. Racial tensions emerged, particularly during a conflict at Newton South, which made her feel disconnected and uncomfortable in her environment.

Melissa’s career journey began with a passion for working with children. Having spent many summers attending camp with her siblings, she became a Camp Director. Starting as a Counselor in Training (CIT), she quickly became Assistant Program Director. Alongside her work at camp, she pursued studies in interior design at Newbury College and Suffolk University in Boston, broadening her professional horizons.

Her career soon expanded into other fields, including wedding planning and design. As a wedding designer, Melissa helped create memorable moments for countless couples. She also opened and ran a flower shop, Floral Expressions, and managed two daycare centers, gaining valuable business experience. Her real estate and home interior design work allowed her to transform properties and help clients create their dream spaces. These diverse experiences helped her develop skills that would later support her philanthropic efforts.