Melanie Nord serves as the Spiritual Life Leader at Meadowlark, bringing deep compassion, extensive pastoral experience, and a commitment to holistic spiritual care.

In her role, Melanie provides individualized spiritual care that honors and respects the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs within the Meadowlark community. She plays a vital part in offering palliative and end-of-life spiritual support, assisting families with memorial planning and after-death care, and supporting staff members in navigating community losses and significant events.

Melanie collaborates closely with Healthcare and Assisted Living Leadership to address residents’ spiritual needs and routinely visits these households to provide care and companionship. Additionally, she serves as an essential liaison between Meadowlark and the faith-based communities of Manhattan and surrounding areas.

Before joining the Meadowlark team in 2025, Melanie held leadership positions at First United Methodist Church (FUMC) in Manhattan, Kansas, where she served as both Congregational Care Pastor and Executive Pastor. Her experience also includes two formative chaplain internships, where she gained valuable insights into pastoral care and spiritual counseling.

Melanie holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Kansas State University and a Master of Divinity from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. She was ordained in the United Methodist denomination in 2016.

Beyond her professional roles, Melanie is deeply engaged in the Manhattan community. She founded and led the Downtown Faith Collective (2022–2023), fostering interfaith collaboration and dialogue. She was an active member of the Manhattan Rotary Club (2019–2023) and served as Chair of the City of Manhattan Cemetery Advisory Board (2018–2023), helping preserve local heritage. Additionally, she represented religious communities on the Riley County Census Committee (2019) and chaired the Manhattan Ministerial Association (2016–2019), strengthening relationships among local faith leaders. Since 2012, Melanie has also served as an independent contractor for various local and regional funeral homes, offering compassionate care and guidance during times of loss.

Originally from Shawnee, Kansas, Melanie now resides in Manhattan, Kansas, with her two daughters. She and her children especially enjoy all that downtown Manhattan has to offer. Living in the area allows them to walk to local restaurants, the Manhattan Public Library, and City Park, making the most of the vibrant community atmosphere.