FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
7/15/26
Amani Family Services Appoints Melissa Grossman as Chief Executive Officer
FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Amani Family Services has announced the appointment of Melissa Grossman as its new Chief Executive Officer following an extensive executive search. Grossman, who has served as Amani's Chief Operating Officer for the past four years and has been with the organization for six years, will lead the nonprofit into its next chapter of growth and impact.
A recognized leader in the nonprofit and human services sectors, Grossman brings a deep understanding of Amani's mission and the communities it serves. During her tenure, she has played a pivotal role in strengthening organizational operations, expanding programs, and advancing services for immigrant and refugee families throughout Northeast Indiana.
Among her many accomplishments, Grossman founded Amani's Naturalization and Legalization Assistance (NALA) Program, building the initiative from the ground up to help eligible immigrants navigate the path to U.S. citizenship. Her leadership has helped position Amani Family Services as a trusted resource for individuals and families seeking stability, safety, and opportunity.
Before joining Amani, Grossman held leadership roles with Catholic Charities Fort Wayne-South Bend. She is a Cultural Intelligence Certified Facilitator and earned a Master of Social Work with a clinical concentration.
Grossman's commitment to community leadership extends well beyond her role at Amani. She serves on the Mayor's Commission on Domestic Violence, is Vice President of the Anti-Trafficking Network of Northeast Indiana and is an adjunct professor at the Indiana University School of Social Work. Her leadership has also been recognized through honors including Fort Wayne Business Weekly's Forty Under 40 and the Indiana Youth Institute Journey Fellowship.
"After conducting a thoughtful and comprehensive search, it became clear that Melissa is the right leader to guide Amani into its future," said Shawn Sullivan, Chair of the Amani Family Services Board of Directors. "She brings an exceptional combination of strategic leadership, operational excellence, and unwavering commitment to our mission. Melissa has already helped shape Amani into the organization it is today, and we are excited for the vision, innovation, and compassion she will bring as our next CEO."
Grossman said she is honored by the opportunity to continue serving an organization that has become deeply personal to her.
"It is an incredible honor to serve as Amani's next CEO. For more than a decade, I have had the privilege of working alongside this community, and for the past six years, I have been proud to call Amani home. During that time, I have witnessed the strength and resilience of the individuals and families we serve, and I have been inspired every day by the dedication of our staff, partners, and supporters", Grossman said. "As I step into this new role, I am excited to build on Amani's strong foundation, continue expanding our impact, and ensure we provide meaningful support and opportunities that help our community thrive. I am grateful for the trust placed in me and look forward to leading Amani into its next chapter together with our community.”
As CEO, Grossman will oversee Amani Family Services' continued efforts to provide culturally responsive services that empower immigrants, refugees, and survivors of human trafficking through advocacy, education, legal services, and community partnerships.
Media Contact:
Erin Arnold – Chief Development Officer
260-484-1414 x:529 | earnold@amanifamilyservices.org