Staff Reports | Community Updates
Duet: Partners In Health & Aging has hired Dr. Melissa L. Boydston as its new executive director.
“We are thrilled to welcome Melissa as Duet’s new executive director,” said Cheryl Plewa, board president. “Her personal connection to caregiving and her proven record of leading with both heart and strategy embody the essence of Duet’s mission. Melissa brings the vision, energy and collaborative spirit that will guide us into an inspiring new chapter of growth and community impact.”
According to a press release, Boydston brings extensive experience in education, philanthropy and community development. Most recently, she served as senior vice president of community impact and engagement at Valley of the Sun United Way, where she led regional initiatives to strengthen outcomes across Maricopa County. Her work included efforts to improve quality of life and access to resources for seniors, supporting independence, dignity and well-being.
“What first drew me to Duet was how genuine this organization is in the way it lives its mission,” Dr. Boydston said. “There’s something really powerful about the idea of partnering; partnering with older adults, caregivers and communities, walking alongside them in a way that’s grounded in dignity and connection. I’m excited to work with such a compassionate team and community, and to contribute to the meaningful impact Duet makes every day.”
Earlier in her career, Dr. Boydston worked in higher education, focusing on access, student success and leadership development. Her professional journey reflects a lifelong dedication to expanding opportunity and fostering collaboration across sectors.
Dr. Boydston earned her Doctor of Education in educational leadership and Master of Education in community college and higher education from Northern Arizona University, along with a Bachelor of Arts in organizational communication from Arizona State University. She also holds a certificate in nonprofit executive leadership from ASU’s Lodestar Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Innovation.
Ms. Plewa added, “Throughout her career, Melissa has remained committed to helping communities imagine and build stronger, more connected systems of support where every person, including older adults, has the opportunity to live with health, independence and dignity.”
