Melissa T. Skolfield is vice president for Communications. She received her bachelor’s degree in economics and behavioral science from Rice University and her master’s degree in public affairs from George Washington University.
Skolfield worked as a press secretary on both sides of the Capitol before joining the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as a deputy assistant secretary for public affairs in 1993. She was confirmed by the Senate as HHS assistant secretary for public affairs in 1995, and served in that role until 2001. She was most recently communications counsel to House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, where she set up a new communications outreach office and helped more than 200 Members of Congress communicate policy proposals across diverse constituencies and media markets.

Skolfield also has significant experience in private sector communications, most recently as senior vice president at Golin/Harris International, where she directed the firm’s healthcare policy practice.

Skolfield grew up in New Orleans and lives in Chevy Chase, Maryland, with her husband Frank Curtis, an architect.

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