Melanie Moore Leads The Academy at Jubilee

As a longtime teacher in the states and abroad, I believe education is a powerful vehicle for justice. At Jubilee, we live this value through our professional development programs for people of different cultures, religions, and economic backgrounds.

I’ve led Jubilee’s learning and development programs for the past six years. In addition to state-required training, we’ve created extra courses on interpersonal and cross-cultural communication. The result? Learners are more satisfied with their jobs, stay longer, and see career growth opportunities. People with disabilities get more committed and attentive support. That’s justice at work.

Our success at Jubilee made me think about how we could have a greater impact in the disability field. I helped create Maryland’s DSP II advanced training program, and seeing its success made me dream about what else providers could do when working together.

Now, those dreams are coming true with The Academy at Jubilee. Partner agencies Ardmore Enterprises, Compass, and SEEC helped us launch in Fall 2024. Ten agencies have already sent students to The Academy, and we’re planning more learning opportunities for the coming year.

Our work at The Academy is near and dear to my heart. My younger brother Jason has a developmental disability. Gabriel is his direct support professional staff. After 16 years together, he’s very much a part of my family back home in California. The type of training we’re offering at The Academy will help people like Gabriel and Jason reach greater heights together.

Melanie’s profile — and more on the The Academy at Jubilee — first published in Jubilee’s Winter 2025 Connections newsletter.