At a time when weather extremes are increasing, environmental challenges are more complex, and public trust in science is more important than ever, the mission of the American Meteorological Society remains essential. As the weather, water, and climate enterprise evolves, AMS faces four challenges: preparing and supporting our workforce, building stronger partnerships across sectors, cultivating a welcoming community, and ensuring the Society remains financially resilient for the future.

1. I will lead efforts to strengthen training, mentoring, and professional development opportunities that prepare members for success across the many pathways within our enterprise. By expanding mentoring networks, increasing access to emerging technologies and innovative tools, and supporting the development of transferable skills, AMS can help members adapt, grow, and thrive throughout their careers.
2. I will foster stronger collaboration across disciplines, sectors, and communities, including the partnership between private-sector data providers and federal agencies. AMS will continue to convene scientists, industry leaders, practitioners, educators, communicators, policymakers, and community partners around shared goals. By strengthening partnerships, we will co-create and disseminate knowledge, address complex challenges, and maximize our impact on society.
3. Together, we will cultivate a community where people feel heard, valued, and supported. The strength of AMS comes from the diversity of experiences, perspectives, expertise, and backgrounds of our members. By creating opportunities for all members to contribute and succeed, we strengthen both our community and our science.
4. Finally, I will help position AMS for the future by supporting the Society's long-term financial resilience, exploring opportunities to diversify revenue streams, and ensuring we continue to deliver the programs, services, and resources our members value.

The future of AMS lies in advancing science and innovation, supporting our members, and serving society. Most importantly, it lies in the strength of our community and our shared commitment to one another and the communities we serve.

Dr. Melissa A. Burt is an Associate Professor in the Department of Atmospheric Science and Associate Dean for Access and Success in the Walter Scott, Jr. College of Engineering at Colorado State University. She is a nationally recognized leader in STEM education, mentorship, inclusive excellence, and workforce development within the atmospheric and geosciences communities.

Burt earned her B.S. in Meteorology from Millersville University and her M.S. and Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science from Colorado State University. After completing her master's degree, she joined the National Science Foundation Science and Technology Center for Multiscale Modeling of Atmospheric Processes (CMMAP) as Education and Diversity Manager (2008-2016), where she developed innovative educational and workforce development programs, including a highly successful Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program where she served as Director from 2008–2024.

As an Associate Professor, her scholarship focuses on atmospheric science education research, emphasizing science identity and belonging, mentoring networks, student well-being, science communication, and workplace climate in STEM. Her work examines how mentoring and educational environments influence student success and persistence in the geosciences and engineering. Beyond the university, Burt is committed to broadening participation in science and increasing public engagement with climate issues. Burt served as Vice President of the Earth Science Women’s Network (ESWN), a non-profit 501c(3) dedicated to supporting professional success and career advancement within the geosciences. Burt is a co-founder of Science Moms, a non-partisan group of climate scientists and mothers focused on climate communication.

Dr. Burt is a Fellow of the American Meteorological Society and has been deeply engaged with the AMS for close to two decades. Burt has served as an AMS Councilor, member of the AMS Executive Committee, inaugural Chair of the Culture and Inclusion Cabinet, and Chair of the Board on Women and Minorities. Her contributions have been recognized through numerous honors, including the AMS Charles E. Anderson Award, the STAC Board on Societal Impacts Outstanding Service Award and the AMS Award for Early Career Achievement. Through her leadership, research, and service, she advances educational and professional environments where all individuals can thrive and contribute to addressing society’s weather, water, and climate challenges.