Melissa S. Gresham, Ph.D.

Race Director

Melissa S. Gresham, Ph.D. served 9 years in the United States Army; starting as a Military Intelligence Analyst and transitioning to a Kiowa Warrior Helicopter Pilot-in-Command. Melissa deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. She gained a deep understanding of terrorist operations and tactics throughout hundreds of missions on counterterrorism, security, and close combat support.

Currently, Melissa is a Senior Consultant with Centurion Solutions where she works with clients on security and safety. Additionally, she is an Adjunct Instructor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University where she teaches aviation safety, safety program management, and human factors.

After graduate school, Melissa completed her Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy and Administration with an emphasis in Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace. She is researching domestic terrorism and working with local law enforcement agencies on policing strategies to help the federal government prevent terrorist attacks at the local level.

In addition to numerous military awards and honors, to include Combat Action Badge, Air Medals, Army Commendation Medals, and Army Achievement Awards; Melissa has been featured in GI Jobs, Dallas CEO, and various conferences as Key-Note Speaker.

In Melissa's free time she enjoys long-distance running and Tough Mudder competitions. She is a proud wife to Detective Sergeant Ryan Gresham at the DFW Airport Police Department and they have two beautiful daughters, Ashley (17) and Carlee (8).