Melissa Orton is an emerging leader in youth education who will complete her Bachelor’s degree in Marriage and Family Studies in April 2026. She has led multiple organizations focused on serving children and youth and brings extensive experience organizing and managing educational conferences.

Melissa is deeply committed to the Mock Trial program after witnessing its powerful impact on students. She has seen participants grow into confident communicators who think critically, articulate ideas clearly, navigate disagreement respectfully, and engage effectively with adults—skills that foster both civic understanding and a lasting appreciation for the law.