Melissa Stansbury

Melissa brings a wealth of experience to Canyon Ranch Tucson from her interdisciplinary background in exercise science, coaching, facilitation, program design, and research. In her previous role as a Research Associate at the University of South Carolina, she supported the development of nationwide evidence-based lifestyle programs and human performance solutions by integrating educational content, behavior change techniques, and technology. She has extensive experience facilitating individual and group sessions on behavioral weight management, physical activity promotion, dietary modification, and stress management, as well as teaching public health courses.

Additionally, Melissa comes to our Arizona wellness resort with over a decade of expertise in guiding lifestyle transformation as a health and wellness specialist, personal trainer, cycling instructor, behavioral interventionist, and fitness club general manager. Her coaching prowess extends to collegiate volleyball teams, where she earned national recognition as the 2012 NCAA DIII National Assistant Coach of the Year.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Melissa thrives in the great outdoors, often embarking on cycling and hiking adventures. Nature serves as her canvas for exploration and rejuvenation. She also indulges her intellectual curiosity through reading and has a secret talent for cake decorating. Her motto is, “Give your best. Step into your purpose. Enjoy your journey!