This summer, Executive Director Ann Wheat announced her plans to retire in December, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of compassion, dedication, and hope for family caregivers, older adults, and grandfamilies.
With that same spirit guiding our next chapter, and following an extensive, thoughtful search, Duet’s Board of Directors is delighted to announce Dr. Melissa L. Boydston as our new Executive Director. Melissa officially steps into her role on November 10, while Ann will stay with us through December 5 to ensure a seamless and well-supported transition.
We are thrilled to welcome Melissa as Duet’s new Executive Director. Her personal connection to caregiving and her proven record of leading with both heart and strategy embody the essence of Duet’s mission. Melissa brings the vision, energy, and collaborative spirit that will guide us into an inspiring new chapter of growth and community impact.
– Cheryl Plewa, Board President
About Our New Executive Director
Dr. Melissa L. Boydston Ed.D., has built her career on the belief that meaningful change happens when communities come together to listen, learn, and act collectively. With a deep commitment to collaboration and systems-level impact, she has dedicated her work to helping individuals and families thrive through education, health, housing, and workforce development.
Melissa brings extensive experience in education, philanthropy, and community development. Most recently, she served as Senior Vice President of Community Impact and Engagement at Valley of the Sun United Way, where she led regional initiatives designed to strengthen outcomes across Maricopa County. In this role, she worked closely with nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and private-sector partners to align efforts, share resources, and drive measurable results in health, housing, education, workforce development. Her work included efforts to improve quality of life and access to resources for seniors, supporting their independence, dignity, and overall well-being.
Her approach to leadership emphasizes listening, trust, and shared accountability. Melissa has guided coalitions focused on breaking down systemic barriers and has helped design funding and partnership strategies that center community voice and long-term sustainability. She is passionate about creating conditions where people and organizations can work together toward common goals and lasting solutions.
Earlier in her career, Melissa worked in higher education, focusing on access, student success, and leadership development. Her professional journey reflects a lifelong dedication to expanding opportunity and fostering collaboration across sectors.
Melissa earned her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Master of Education in Community College and Higher Education from Northern Arizona University, along with a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communication from Arizona State University. She also holds a Certificate in Nonprofit Executive Leadership from ASU’s Lodestar Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Innovation.
Throughout her career, Melissa has remained committed to helping communities imagine and build stronger, more connected systems of support and where every person, including older adults, has the opportunity to live with health, independence, and dignity.
“What first drew me to Duet was how genuine this organization is in the way it lives its mission. There’s something really powerful about the idea of partnering; partnering with older adults, caregivers, and communities, walking alongside them in a way that’s grounded in dignity and connection. I’m excited to work with such a compassionate team and community, and to contribute to the meaningful impact Duet makes every day.”
– Dr. Melissa Boydston
Welcome Dr. Melissa Boydston!
As we transition to a new chapter in Duet’s history, our hearts are full of both gratitude and excitement for Melissa’s vision, wisdom, and heart. Join us in welcoming her!