Melissa Bouchard is an outspoken mother and advocate on the forefront of cannabis leadership and activism since 2002 in Rhode Island. Successfully working on campaigns including The Right to Vote, Decriminalization, Mandatory Minimum Sentencing and medical cannabis and legalization efforts in RI, CT & MA, Melissa is a firm believer in creating safe access and equality.

Her life experience includes over 20 community service & leadership awards, a place in the Smithsonian Museum, a degree in Criminal Justice, and certification in HIV Counseling & Overdose Prevention. She’s also a published columnist and former National Membership Director for Parents 4 Pot.

With a well-respected name in the cannabis industry, Melissa was recognized by Skunk Magazine in 2015 for her activism, and named one of the nation’s top ‘Women of Weed’. After managing and becoming Director of Education & Outreach for one of the largest dispensaries in the country, Melissa branched off on her own to provide consultation and project management to emerging businesses.

Both personally and professionally, Melissa has seen the miracle of cannabis medicine and believes no one should go to jail for this plant.