Melissa J. Woody, LMSW

NYS Licensed Master Social Worker with experience supporting university students through complex academic and institutional processes, facilitating educational programming, and advancing student success, development, and well-being within higher education.

Helping others has always been at the heart of my work. Early in my journey volunteering with youth and young adults, I remember asking a mentor, “I wonder if I can build a career doing this?” That question ultimately led me to earn my Master’s in Social Work and dedicate my career to creating opportunities for students to grow, thrive, and become the best versions of themselves.

My professional experience spans nonprofit and higher education settings, where I have worked with diverse student populations and helped strengthen systems that promote student success. At Stony Brook University, one of my proudest accomplishments has been leading the Hope Committee, bringing together cross-campus stakeholders to promote student well-being through research, collaboration, and meaningful dialogue. By helping faculty and staff better understand and connect students with campus resources, I strive to foster supportive, accessible, and student-centered university environments.

In addition to my work with the History & Sociology Departments, I teach SBU 101 and serve in several university leadership and governance roles, including the University Senate Professional Employees Governance (PEG) Board and the Campus Quality of Life Board. I also serve on the ADA Advisory Board’s Web Content and Mobile Application Accessibility Subcommittee, where I contribute to efforts to improve digital accessibility across the university.

Outside of my professional work, I am a proud mom of three, an avid reader of fantasy, history, and novels, and a musician. These creative interests continue to shape my perspective, empathy, and approach to supporting others.