Melissa D’Auria

Chief Advancement Officer
United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona

Melissa D’Auria is a dedicated marketing and communications professional with 17 years of experience. The Tucson native, who has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from UArizona, has a passion for community building and engagement. 

She worked at Tucson Lifestyle Magazine, ProVentures, and Tucson Botanical Gardens before joining United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona in 2016. She has since led efforts to advance the marketing and communications department, implementing data collection and tailored engagement strategies that have elevated United Way’s visibility. 

A founding member of El Rio Vecinos, D’Auria also volunteers with the Sam Hughes Neighborhood Association. 

“United Way of Tucson is such a special organization that is woven into the fabric of this community and truly helps it tick,” she said. “I’m grateful for the growth opportunities I’ve been given with United Way and for the steadfast mentorship of our CEO, Tony Penn. One of the most valuable things I’ve learned from my work here is that you get so much more out of your community when you give back to it.”