Learn About MELD

MELD is a dynamic membership ecosystem driven by a highly-engaged community.

We've designed a model that offers a rich blend of exclusive experiences, relevant content and curated environments that foster memorable interactions so that every member gains lasting value from their participation.

What the MELD Ecosystem Delivers

We train and pre-qualify our talent roster.

1:1 interactions with high potential women.
Practical professionalism - mentoring with results.
MELD Badge signals talent readiness and ecosystem support.

We provide a gateway to top tier recruiting.

Access to pre-qualified talent, with meaningful connections early and often.
Drumbeat of interactions before, during and after the recruiting process.
Insights report to keep pulse on needs of top tier female talent.

We foster relationships between emerging talent and established executives.

MELD is built by women, for women, where authenticity, resilience and confidence fuel career advancement and economic impact.
Core offerings include salon dinners, virtual masterclasses and 1:1 office hours, with curated content, bootcamps and advisor studio services designed around sponsor goals.

the vision

"I started MELD to create environments for women to ask questions and hear trusted advice."

For the woman who has too much on the line. Who is not sure where she can be candid. Who is looking for an outlet to navigate the natural steps at her job and in her growth. Where she can access an objective third party with credibility to give actionable support. Where her next 360 review or promotion or investment opportunity won’t be impacted by her honesty and vulnerability. Where she doesn’t have to have it all together, but where she can find and feel her strength.

Helping you find your seat at the table.

Meet our founder

Founded & led by Katie McCormick Lelyveld

Under the leadership of Katie McCormick Lelyveld, MELD's strategic direction is anchored in her roles as an advisor to transformative senior leaders and as a Harvard University Fellow.

Her expertise guides MELD's expansion into academic, business, and athletic sectors nationwide. Katie's vision is fueled by her dedication to making a meaningful difference, setting the course for MELD to become a pivotal platform for women's advancement.

THE STORY

From a Chicago Kitchen to a College Lecture Hall

MELD is founded by Katie McCormick Lelyveld, a strategic positioning and communications expert who served as the first press secretary to Former First Lady Michelle Obama.

Katie was raised in a house that recorded the news every night (on VHS) to watch together, where her mom would pause the broadcast to discuss not just the story but how the story was told, who was the messenger and who was left out, and how did traditional, gender-based limitations shape stories of ambition and achievement.

It was in these moments that Katie’s formal professional training took place. To pay attention to the details and our shared experiences. To look for ways to build trust and confidence and to draw attention to injustice and unfairness. To be mindful of moments to teach, to empower, to engage – to not alienate – and when opportunities to make change present themselves, to act.

The First MELD Moment

In fall 2021, I was invited to speak at Harvard. After the lecture, I was struck by how many young women stayed behind to meet with me.

It was clear that these high-potential individuals craved a real network - and a more intimate setting where they could discuss their diverse backgrounds, resources, and experiences, as well as the common interests, ambitions, and pressures they shared.

I couldn’t stop thinking that if this top-tier environment presented such similar and significant needs, imagine what exists for women across the country looking for support in their way - paying attention as much to EQ as IQ?

And imagine the catalytic innovation and workplace transformation we could enable if we strategically and systematically engaged and connected women across the country and across generations - from those who were the first in the room to those who are new on the scene?

As I dug into the landscape and reflected on my experience - from the kitchen TV to the board room to the White House - I recognized the void, and the opportunity MELD can mean for this generational wealth of knowledge.

“Katie has been with me since the very beginning and I’ve relied on her intelligence, grace, quick wit, humor and friendship through the campaign and at the White House. I will always be grateful for her hard work and dedication."

— Former First Lady Michelle Obama

MELD is Run With and For the Next Generation

Our team is made up of undergraduate students and recent graduates from state, community and elite universities, as well as industry experts from some of the country’s most influential for-profit companies and non-profit organizations.

Partner With MELD

MELD women are your competitive advantage.

We partner with brands and organizations to attract and retain top-tier talent while strengthening their reputation as leaders in women’s development. Through exclusive access to strategic coaching, curated insights, and high-impact networking, we help our partners set a higher standard for leadership development for women. By aligning with MELD, companies not only amplify their brand’s message but foster an environment where talented women can thrive.

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