Melissa Bliss is a seasoned professional in local government and corrections, currently serving as the Director of Community Corrections for St. Joseph County, Michigan. With over 16 years of experience in local government operations, she brings a strong background in managing corrections programs, coordinating with advisory boards, and maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations.

Bliss earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Central Michigan University and has held several leadership roles, including Deputy Clerk for St. Joseph County and City Clerk for the City of Three Rivers. In those positions, she was responsible for election administration, vital records processing, and municipal records management.

Since being appointed Director of Community Corrections in January 2022, Bliss has focused on implementing strategies to reduce prison commitment rates and expand alternatives to incarceration. She also serves as Financial Officer for the county’s specialty courts, managing fiscal operations related to those programs.

In addition to her work with the county, Bliss serves as Executive Director of the Three Rivers Area Community Foundation and is a member of the Three Rivers School Board, where she supports local projects related to education and regional improvement.