Melissa Norton

Melissa has worked in disability supports and services for over twelve years, starting out as a Special Educator and Case Manager at a Chicago Public High School, work which led her to become a certified Transition Specialist for the state of Illinois. Her passion for working in higher education began in Beirut, Lebanon at the American University of Beirut where she founded the Accessible Education Office for students with disabilities. Most recently, she was the Assistant Director at University of California, Irvine’s Disability Services Center. She is passionate about working to destigmatize disability and finding new platforms for student voices to be heard. She knows personally how formative the college years are and cares deeply about participating in the spiritual formation and academic support offered to Wheaton Students through the LAS office.

Melissa and her husband met at their church in Chicago back in 2011 and have been blessed with two young children. She enjoys music, antique stores, and cooking dishes influenced by her time in Lebanon.

University of Illinois at Chicago, Transition Specialist Program
Illinois State Board of Education Transition Specialist License, 2014

National Louis University, Chicago, IL
M.A.T. in Special Education, 2011 

George Washington University, Washington, D.C.
B.A. in Music, 2007