Vermont Interfaith Action, a leading faith-based organizing network in Vermont, has announced the promotion of Melissa Battah to executive director. Battah had been serving as the organization's deputy director of organizing for the previous five years before being named interim executive director in July.
“Melissa will lead VIA into an expanded future, exploring the difficulties faced by vulnerable Vermonters, its future campaigns, building on existing and developing new partnerships and increasing its state and local impact,” said Nancy Baker, president of the VIA Board of Directors.
Battah brings decades of experience with a proven track record in grassroots organizing and leadership development. Her strategic thinking and foresight led to the creation of VIA's largest campaign to date — the passage of Proposition 2 in 2022 abolishing slavery in all forms from the state’s constitution.
Battah is a graduate of Palm Beach Atlantic University and holds a master's degree in conflict transformation from the School for International Training in Brattleboro.