Melissa Wellhausen

Chief Financial Officer

Education

• MBA Human Resource Managment, Northwest Missouri State University, 2019
• B.S. Public Accounting, Northwest Missouri State University, 2003

Strengths

Includer – Woo – Achiever - Learner – Positivity

About

I’m Melissa Wellhausen the CFO at Northwest Foundation. I expertly juggle numbers, strategies, and spreadsheets with the precision of an accountant and the energy of a caffeinated parent on a game day.

Originally from Creston, Iowa, I’m a proud alum of Northwest Missouri State University, where I earned both a degree in Accounting and an MBA with an HR emphasis. My passion lies in blending financial expertise with a people-first leadership approach to help make a lasting impact.

When I’m not keeping the Foundation’s finances in check, I’m managing the wonderful chaos of family life in Clarinda, Iowa. My husband, Brett, and I live on a farm with our two high school-aged kids, Carsen and Cain, who keep my calendar packed with sporting events. Our dog, Skipper, is convinced he’s the third child and honestly, he might not be wrong! There’s nothing I love more than cheering on the kids at their games, though Skipper would probably argue that he’s the true MVP of the household.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is seeing donors create lasting legacies at Northwest Foundation. When someone establishes an endowed scholarship, it’s more than just a financial gift-it’s the beginning of a story that will support students for generations to come. Seeing these gifts transform lives and open doors for students is truly inspiring.

When I’m not crunching numbers or celebrating the Foundation’s successes, you’ll likely find me soaking in some country music. As a huge Eric Church fan, I’ve attended over 30 of his concerts-my love for his music runs just as deep as my passion for finance. Outside of concert halls, I enjoy staying fit, spending time with friends and family, relaxing by the pool in summer, and baking up something sweet (because I believe in balance-both in finances and in life).

With a love for both finance and family, I make sure the Foundation’s finances are as solid as a perfectly baked cake-all while finding joy in life’s little moments and ensuring that every dollar is used to make a meaningful impact.