Melissa Frugé is an accomplished executive and operations leader with over 20 years of experience spanning government, nonprofit, community, and hospitality sectors. She is recognized for her empowering leadership style, transparent communication, and ability to build trusted relationships with diverse stakeholders—including governments, schools, tribal partners, and community organizations
Principal & Co-Founder
Skyfire Solutions Group
August 2026—Present
Co-leads consulting projects for municipalities, nonprofits, and tribal communities, focusing on federal funding strategy and stakeholder engagement. Develops proposals, partner toolkits, and presents on funding pathways to help rural communities access resources.
Community Program Specialist
U.S.D.A. Rural Development-Michigan
October 2024—Present
Improve the economy and quality of life in rural America through public/private partnerships to streamline policy delivery and promote rural resilience. Led implementation of the nation’s first Rural Development Cooperative Agreement with an AI-based search platform, improving access to funding opportunities. Developed standardized procedures and performance tracking systems to ensure consistency, accountability, and data-informed decisions.
Regional Manager
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow
February 2019—October 2024
Principal point of contact and key liaison for Senator Stabenow in Northern Michigan. Represent the Senator at meetings and events, develop and execute outreach plans, and monitor regional issues. Oversaw operations, staff, and constituent services across 27 counties, managing budgets and agency coordination. Built relationships with diverse stakeholders and helped secure over $27M in federal funding for the region.
Marketing Manager
Inn at Bay Harbor-Autograph Collection, Marriott Resorts
2014—2018
Managed marketing operations and campaigns for a major resort, increasing digital engagement by 130% and generating 20,000+ qualified leads. Coordinated events, communications, and guest experience initiatives in a fast-paced, seasonal environment.
Candidate
Michigan House of Representatives, 105th District
2018
Established positive relationships with organizations, community leaders, and volunteers across a rural, five-county district. Outraised opponent, engaged with more than 30,000 voters, and positively moved the needle five points.
Board President
Black Bear Farms Co-Owners Association
2021-Present
Leads an 85-unit community association, overseeing board meetings, strategic planning, and a $1.9M capital plan. Manages budgets, contracts, and communications to ensure transparency and effective operations.
Education.
-
Master's Degree
Strategic Communications
Michigan State University, 2021 -
Professional Certificate
Organizational Communication for Leadership
-
Bachelor's Degree
Journalism
Central Michigan University, 2004 -
General Studies
Language & Culture
Universidad de Alicante, 2003