Melissa Mykal Batalin

An artist specializing in printmaking and bookbinding, Melissa combines her creative talents with more than 20 years of experience in education, technology and product marketing. A long-time Sanctuary Sustainer, Melissa has been pivotal in maintaining the organization’s event schedules and website, ensuring the Sanctuary’s mission reaches far beyond North Troy. Melissa’s involvement with the Sanctuary began in 2006, when she was among the first artists to be featured in the Underground Gallery. Since then, she’s been an integral part of the Sanctuary’s behind-the-scenes efforts—designing seasonal schedules, running focus groups, and amplifying the visibility of its programming.

When Melissa and her partner, Kurtis, purchased their home just a few blocks from the Sanctuary around the same time Media Alliance acquired it, they rooted themselves in this vibrant community. While Melissa is often “on the move,” when she’s in Troy, you can find her gardening, creating, and hosting quirky and imaginative events.