Saga Education is proud to welcome Melanie Dukes, Associate Program Director, K-9 Education at Overdeck Family Foundation, to its Board of Directors. Melanie manages the Foundation’s in-school investment portfolios, Exceptional Educators and Innovative Schools, which are focused on programs for kindergarten through 9th grade that increase the retention of expert educators and support student-centered learning environments.

She brings over 15 years of experience leading education initiatives, building innovative programs, and using technology, data, and analytics to generate new solutions to complex problems. Previously, Melanie worked at 2U, Inc. as a Director in the technology department to support online learning for universities. Earlier, Melanie worked at Relay GSE, KIPP NYC, MLT (Management Leadership for Tomorrow), Morgan Stanley, and General Mills. She is also a board member for two Brooklyn Charter Schools. Melanie earned an M.B.A. from Columbia Business School, graduated from Georgia Institute of Technology with a B.S. in Industrial Engineering, and is pursuing an M.A. in Education Technology at NYU Steinhardt.

When asked why she wanted to join the board, Melanie said, “The journey of Saga Education continues to impress and inspire me, illuminating what is possible for the impact, scale, and innovation of high-dosage tutoring in K-12. I am excited to join the Saga board to become a part of this organization’s ongoing story, working alongside esteemed board members and passionate staff to share my unique perspective and help advance the Saga mission.”

“I’m happy to welcome Melanie Dukes to our Board of Directors,” said AJ Guiterrez, Co-Founder and Chief of Marketing and Communications for Saga Education. “Melanie is a fierce champion of educational equity and her creativity and strategic mindset are strengthening our plans for the future. The energy and enthusiasm she brings to every conversation is contagious and a source of inspiration,” he added.

“Diversity is what makes our organization stronger. That’s why it is paramount that Saga’s board, staff and Fellows represent the communities we serve. We are deeply proud that we now have a diverse board that includes six women and seven men, 50% of which are Black and Latinx,” said Guiterrez.