Melissa Proulx

Melissa Proulx serves as Operations Manager at Oak Park String Academy, bringing a diverse professional background and a love of music to the behind-the-scenes work that helps the school thrive. Her experience spans university librarianship, freelance copywriting, and preschool education, giving her a unique combination of organizational, communication, and child-centered skills.

Throughout her career, Melissa has developed expertise in building organizational systems, structuring websites, coordinating events, and translating complex information into clear, accessible writing. At OPSA, she draws on these skills to support the day-to-day operations of the academy and help create a welcoming, well-organized experience for students, families, and teachers.

Music has been a constant throughout Melissa’s life. Although she also plays piano, flute, recorder, and melodica, violin is her primary instrument. She has played violin for 30 years and currently performs with the Symphony of Oak Park and River Forest. Her musical experience also includes performances with the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra, American Grands, Blue Lake’s International Youth Symphony Orchestra, IGSMA, and several pit orchestras for college musical productions.

As both a longtime musician and a professional who has worked in early childhood education, Melissa brings an appreciation for the many ways music can enrich our lives. She enjoys being part of a community that helps children and families build meaningful, lasting relationships with music.

Outside of OPSA, Melissa loves listening to Beethoven’s symphonies, reading picture books, and exploring Chicago’s remarkable museums. Her favorite Suzuki violin repertoire is Volume 5.