A proud Fort Wayne native, Melissa Rinehart hails from a long line of hardworking German and Belgian immigrant families. A family ethos of serving and championing others was instilled in Melissa at a young age. Having lived in both ends of the district boundaries, from the Dupont area up north to the North Anthony corridor in the city's historic core, Melissa is uniquely qualified to speak to the diverse needs of District 2 residents. 

After graduating from Snider High School, Melissa went on to earn her undergraduate degree in political science from Indiana University Fort Wayne. She continued on to earn a master's from the University of Texas San Antonio and a doctorate in cultural anthropology from Michigan State University. 

Melissa currently serves as the Education Director at Neighborhood Health Clinic, a federally qualified health center providing holistic healthcare to disadvantaged populations. She also serves on the Legacy Joint Funding Committee and the Fort Wayne Sister Cities International Board of Directors. She is a proud graduate of Hoosier Women Forward and a member of AVOW (Advancing Voices of Women). 

Her past professional roles include university professor, nonprofit executive director, consultant, writer, and trainer. Melissa has worked closely with a diverse array of communities, including many who are too often underserved or left behind. She's a fierce advocate for doing the right thing. Melissa enjoys volunteering, writing, gardening, and a nice cup of coffee with friends. 

Melissa Rinehart is confident she has the skillset, experience, and passion required to represent District 2 residents on Fort Wayne City Council and help keep our community moving forward.