Melissa May has extensive experience advancing climate resilience across policy landscapes and built environments. She has partnered with state and local agencies on projects including resilient design guidelines and policy analysis for climate adaptation and managed retreat, topics on which she has published and presented widely. As resilience lead, Melissa develops business and strategy for Haley & Aldrich’s Resilience team and integrates resilience into practice areas across the firm.
Melissa’s comprehensive knowledge of the policy and regulatory landscape makes her an invaluable problem-solving partner on complex planning and policy issues. Her inclusive, systems-based approach ensures that every project reflects a shared vision, builds community capacity, and provides a pathway to implementation.
Melissa maintains an active portfolio of volunteer activities, including serving, since 2022, as planning commissioner for the city and county of Honolulu. An avid supporter of Hawaii’s creative industries, she has also held leadership positions in organizations that nurture Hawaii’s creative talent.
“My passion is in helping communities become more resilient, vibrant, sustainable, and connected. Integral to this process is bringing together community, government, and technical knowledge to create a shared vision and collective road map for implementation.”