Melissa DiMercurio to Lead Skill Accelerator Badge Program at Hood College

The Graduate School at Hood College has announced a new leadership update for its non-degree Skill Accelerator badge program, which awards verified digital badges for completing graduate-level coursework. Melissa DiMercurio, a seasoned public relations and communications professional with deep ties to both the local community and the national workforce it supports, will serve as program coordinator.

With more than a decade of experience in corporate communications and as the founder of Avanti Communications, DiMercurio brings a unique blend of agency expertise, entrepreneurial perspective and a deep understanding of employer needs. Born in Long Island, New York, and raised in Washington County, Maryland, she earned her B.A. in public relations and communications from Hofstra University and has since led communications for national nonprofits, academic institutions and purpose-driven brands.

DiMercurio succeeds Hood alumna Marcy Taylor ’81, MBA’00, who successfully launched the program and laid a strong foundation for its continued success. Taylor will remain involved through the end of the year as the program expands under DiMercurio’s direction.

“I’m honored to build on the incredible foundation Marcy established and bring new energy to this innovative program,” said DiMercurio. “I understand firsthand how important it is to grow professionally—whether you’re an employee, employer or business owner—and Skill Accelerator is designed to meet professionals where they are.”

The Skill Accelerator badge program is designed for working professionals who are seeking to advance their credentials or change careers without committing to the demands of a full degree program. Badges are offered at the foundational, intermediate and advanced levels, and most can be applied toward a future master’s degree or certificate. Courses are short and fully online for flexibility, with focus areas including biotechnology, business, computing, counseling and trauma, equity and inclusion, education and more.

Skill Accelerator badges are verified, digital, competency-based credentials issued by Milestone™ and can be embedded on LinkedIn, resumes or digital portfolios. Each badge includes a breakdown of skills and competencies acquired—making them valuable tools for both job seekers and employers.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Marcy Taylor for her leadership in launching the Skill Accelerator badge program,” said April Boulton, Ph.D., associate provost and dean of the Graduate School. “As Melissa steps into this role, we’re excited to embark on its next chapter. Increasingly, we are seeing that businesses and organizations are placing greater value on the specific skills and competencies workers bring, beyond traditional qualifications. With the workforce evolving rapidly, Melissa’s background and expertise will be invaluable in expanding the program’s reach, strengthening connections with professionals and employers, as well as amplifying the impact of this forward-thinking initiative.”

To learn more about the Skill Accelerator badge program or explore badge options, visit hood.edu/skillaccelerator.

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