Melissa Looney

Executive Coach and Facilitator

Dr. Looney blends research-backed insights with real-world practicality to turn workplace interactions into authentic connections.

Metrics

10+ Years

Leading strategic learning, planning, and instructional development

100+

Workshops designed and facilitated to strengthen leadership, performance, culture, and workforce capability

Advanced Training

Expert in Strategic Communication Research and Practice

Professional Bio

Dr. Melissa Looney is a dynamic facilitator and thought partner dedicated to building workplaces where people genuinely love to work. As the Director of Learning Development and Engagement Strategies at Bentley University, and with a Ph.D. in Strategic Communication, she blends research-backed insights with real-world practicality.

Melissa specializes in creating learning cultures that empower leaders and support professionals, focusing on interpersonal communication to turn everyday workplace interactions into opportunities for authentic connection, influence, and trust-building. Her strategic thinking and talent for challenging perspectives inspire leaders to embrace new ideas and drive real-world impact, especially in addressing the growing skills gap and evolving workplace demands.

Known for her energetic and approachable style, Melissa helps coaching clients create meaningful change. She creates interactive and enjoyable learning experiences through workshops that emphasize strong interpersonal communication, delivering valuable insights and leaving audiences inspired.

Top Five Strengths

Ideation, Individualization, Communication, Relator, Learner

melissa-looney-headshot.jpg

Melissa Looney

Executive Coach and Facilitator

Dr. Looney blends research-backed insights with real-world practicality to turn workplace interactions into authentic connections.

Metrics

10+ Years

Leading strategic learning, planning, and instructional development

5+ Years

Partnering across academic and administrative divisions to strengthen workforce

Driven by Curiosity

In complex environments, makes sense of ambiguity and moves ideas into action

Professional Bio

Dr. Melissa Looney is a dynamic facilitator and thought partner dedicated to building workplaces where people genuinely love to work. As the Director of Learning Development and Engagement Strategies at Bentley University, and with a Ph.D. in Strategic Communication, she blends research-backed insights with real-world practicality.

Melissa specializes in creating learning cultures that empower leaders and support professionals, focusing on interpersonal communication to turn everyday workplace interactions into opportunities for authentic connection, influence, and trust-building. Her strategic thinking and talent for challenging perspectives inspire leaders to embrace new ideas and drive real-world impact, especially in addressing the growing skills gap and evolving workplace demands.

Known for her energetic and approachable style, Melissa helps coaching clients create meaningful change. She creates interactive and enjoyable learning experiences through workshops that emphasize strong interpersonal communication, delivering valuable insights and leaving audiences inspired.

Top Five Strengths

Ideation, Individualization, Communication, Relator, Learner

Credentials and certifications

  • Ph.D. in Strategic Communication
  • Director level experience in Learning Development

Hobbies

  • Spending time with her cats, Roy Kent and Pop Tartt
  • Riding her bike and exploring local coffee shops and record stores with her partner Mike
  • Attending live music shows and discovering new artists