Dec. 27, 2021, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Start at GRCC and go anywhere. Every former student has a story to tell about how GRCC gave them the education and opportunity to be successful.
Jessica Meldrum believes in sharing her experience.
As an adjunct instructor at Grand Valley State University, she shared what she’s learned as a public relations specialist and former local news associate producer.
Now as marketing director for the Grand Rapids Ballet, she shares the passion and enthusiasm that fueled a 17-year career with dance companies across the United States.
Meldrum also shares her time, volunteering with the Humane Society of West Michigan, and serving on the board of the West Michigan Public Relations Society of America, where last year she oversaw the organization’s PRoof Awards.
She received an associate degree in journalism in 2011 and then earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communications from GVSU.
Her career has included working as an associate producer with FOX 17, a public relations associate with Lambert Edwards & Associates, and National Heritage Academies, where she helped with communications for 45 charter schools across nine states.
Her newest job is a dream combination. She leads all marketing and public relations for the organization, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in the 2021-22 Season.
The ballet this week concludes its annual performances of "The Nutcracker," a Grand Rapids holiday season tradition for many families.
It’s also a bit of a homecoming. Meldrum studied classical ballet for 17 years, beginning at the Grand Rapids Ballet and then learning with Lakeshore Ballet Arts, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, Anaheim Ballet, Orlando Ballet and Ballet Austin.
“I am honored to join a passionate group of talented dancers and dedicated professionals at Grand Rapids Ballet, combining my lifelong love of ballet with my professional career,” she told the Grand Rapids Business Journal last spring.
Let GRCC help you start your story. The first chapter starts at grcc.edu/apply.