A Trailblazer with a heart

Melissa Akie Wiley is the only facially disfigured woman to lead local government at an executive level in the United States. After surviving a severe pit bull attack at age 5, Melissa spent her childhood navigating over 30 reconstructive surgeries and relentless experiences of bullying and social rejection.

She went on to attend an Ivy League school, work for the U.S. Economic Advisor to Northern Ireland, develop and lead Denver Peak Academy (the City and County of Denver’s nationally-recognized innovation program), and publish her story in The New York Times.

She’s recognized as a “Top 10 Local Government Influencer” by ELGL and won the Colorado City and County Managers Association’s Trailblazer Award for her efforts to lift women in government. She currently serves as the Deputy Town Manager for Erie, Colorado where she oversees multiple operations from policing to finance. With her leadership, Erie earned a “Denver Post: Top Workplaces” award in 2024. Her commitment to good government has been recognized by Bloomberg Philanthropies and Harvard University.

She lives with her husband, daughter, and dog in Boulder County. Her journey to forgive pit bulls

through working with the Denver Animal Shelter is featured in her upcoming memoir.

Her curriculum for kids utilizes best practices in child brain development and imaginative storytelling to transform the fairytale villain narrative into a hero’s voyage. Her work with organizations provides the tools and structure to foster healthy environments capable of delivering transformative outcomes.

Her mission is to redefine beauty and restore trust in government.