Name
Melissa Pratt
Age
37
Company/Organization
Honor Credit Union
What Does Your Company/Organization Do?
Honor Credit Union is a not-for-profit, member-owned financial institution, meaning we’re truly built around the credit union philosophy of People Helping People. Our mission is to Provide Solutions for Your Financial Success, and we do that by offering better rates, fewer fees, and personalized service. But it truly goes beyond banking. We’re deeply committed to the communities we serve by actively investing through volunteerism, sponsorships, and giveback initiatives that make a lasting impact.
Education
Bachelors of Education from Michigan State University
Accomplishments
As the VP of Learning, Development, and Culture at Honor Credit Union, I’m proud to play a key role in shaping an environment where people genuinely want to work and grow. My focus has been on creating meaningful learning pathways, strengthening leadership development, and cultivating a culture of recognition and purpose. I’ve also championed our employee voice through regular feedback loops and innovative programs that celebrate our team’s contributions. In addition to my role, I’m proud to serve as the Vice Chair for the Greater Southwest Chapter of Credit Unions Board of Directors. I also hold key certifications that support my work- SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and a Prosci Change Practitioner.
What else do you hope to accomplish by the age of 40?
I don’t have a checklist of specific goals I’d like to accomplish by the age of 40, but I do hope that with each passing year, I continue to grow both personally and professionally. I want to keep expanding my knowledge and skillsets, be more present in the moment, and continue to find meaningful ways to support the people around me. For me, it’s less about milestones and more about how I show up each day.
Current City
St. Joseph
Place You Were Born
Niles, MI
What was your first job?
My first job was as a Recreational Director at Pennellwood Resort in Berrien Springs. It was an incredible introduction to leadership and community building. I had the opportunity to create lasting connections with both the staff and the families who returned to the resort year after year, making it a true summer tradition. And honestly, what teenager wouldn’t enjoy getting paid to lead cannonball contests, organize ultimate frisbee games, and host late-night karaoke?
What’s the best advice you ever got?
Be your authentic self.
Who inspires you most?
I’m inspired every day by my husband, RJ. He’s one of the hardest working and most humble people I know. Last year, he took a leap of faith and made his dream a reality by starting his own business, MI Lake Design + Build. I’m constantly in awe of his dedication and character, especially because he’s always genuinely surprised when others speak so highly of him and his work, which is no surprise to me! He supports me wholeheartedly in everything I do, is an incredible girl dad to our daughter, Mackenzie, and always puts our family first. He challenges me to grow and become a better version of myself every single day.
That one thing about you we’d be most surprised to learn.
Karaoke and dancing, sometimes simultaneously, are my kryptonite.
What do you love to do in your downtime?
During my downtime, I enjoy making the most of everything Southwest Michigan has to offer with my family. We love camping, strolling through the St. Joe farmers market, spending time on Lake Michigan, golfing, and unwinding with a cold drink at our favorite local spot, Watermark Brewery.
What book are you reading now?
I like to rotate between leadership and inspirational reads and a good, page turning thriller. Right now, I’m diving into The Good Girl by Mary Kubica. This was one of those spontaneous ‘toss-it-in-the-cart’ finds from a Meijer shopping trip.
Volunteer activity you love the most.
I’m passionate about volunteering for community initiatives where I can see the direct impact of my efforts on others’ lives. One of my favorite events each year is United Way’s Rake a Difference. Since joining Honor, I’ve volunteered for this program annually alongside an incredible team dedicated to helping local seniors with yard work, a simple act that provides them with peace of mind and a sense of support. It’s a rewarding experience that reflects the values we share as a team and as a community.
What motivates you to give back to your community?
What motivates me to give back is my belief that strong communities are built when we show up for each other. I want to help create the kind of community I’m proud to be part of. A community that lifts others up and looks out for one another. Giving back not only supports others, but it fills my own cup, too. There’s something special about knowing that even a small act of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s day.
What Superpower would you most love to have?
I would like the ability to multiply myself, so I can take in as many experiences as possible.
What would you like to leave behind as your legacy once you are gone?
I hope my legacy is one of kindness and genuine connection. I want to be remembered as someone who lifted others up, whether that was through a small act of encouragement, showing up when it mattered, or simply helping make someone’s day a little brighter. If the people I’ve worked with, volunteered with, or even just crossed paths with felt seen, supported, and cared for because of me, then I’ll know I made a meaningful impact.
What does the honor of being named to the 40 Under 40 most mean to you?
I am extremely proud to be named among this year’s 40 Under 40 with such an incredible group of individuals who are making a real difference in their organizations and communities. It’s an honor that reflects not just my own efforts, but also the people who have supported me, said my name in rooms I wasn’t in, and created opportunities for me to grow.
