Mel Nelson, PharmD, CAE, PMP, CPHQ

Senior Director, Program and Information Management

Mel Nelson is the Senior Director of Program and Information Management at the Pharmacy Quality Alliance (PQA). She leads the development and implementation of operational excellence strategies that support PQA’s mission and drive organizational success. With a focus on leveraging technology to enhance efficiency, improve service, and drive growth, she oversees all aspects of IT governance, infrastructure, operations, and data management, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and industry best practices. She also provides programmatic support for PQA’s Quality Innovation and Research Center and measure use licensing.

Nelson previously contributed to PQA’s performance measurement, research, and academic programs. She executed several medication use quality research projects and managed PQA’s experiential education and fellowship programs, aimed at mentoring and empowering future healthcare quality leaders. Prior to joining PQA, Mel served as a researcher at the University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, where she conducted research to improve healthcare quality, evaluate medication therapy management services, and assess pharmacy school curricula.

Nelson earned her doctor of pharmacy from the University of Arizona, and earned the Frontiers of Knowledge Award, recognizing contributions to the pharmacy body of knowledge through research. She also received a Next-Generation Future Pharmacist Award for demonstrating spirit and passion for the profession.

Located in Northern Virginia, she serves on the board of directors for the Mortar and Pestle Society, supporting the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, and toasts with fellow Gribblers at her local Toastmasters club. During her down time, Mel enjoys gardening, traveling the globe, painting, and spending time with family and friends.