Tech Founder + YouTube Enthusiast + Personal Finance Fanatic
Melissa DARGAN
My Mantra
"Aim to live each day living your dream"
THIS IS MY STORY
Hi! I'm Melissa. In a nutshell, I'd describe myself as is a resourceful self-starter passionate about creation, innovation, STEM & CS education, technology, business and government.
I am the Co-founder of Appmy, LLC, a company that builds digital platforms for government (ex: TourTrackr.com which signed a deal with Leidos DSI in Oct. 2018 and Fireside 21 in Oct. 2019). Additionally, in 2015, I was part of a two-person team that launched the Congressional App Challenge (CAC), a nationwide initiative that engages Members of Congress in technology and inspires students to learn Computer Science.
Previously, I worked in Congress for Rep. Ed Royce and the House Foreign Affairs Committee. I earned a MBA from Yale School of Management and completed my B.A. in Political Science and B.S. in Business Administration at UC Berkeley.
I LOVE LEARNING
A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions. - Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.
Each day I strive to learn something new.
Below are the schools and educational programs that have shaped and challenged my thoughts and beliefs
What I do
In the
News & speaking engagements
In the News >>>
Feature Articles
<<<Speaking Engagements
Topics Include
Entrepreneurship
Civic Tech
STEM & CS Education
Innovating Government
Congress & Policy
If you would like to invite Melissa to speak at an event, please contact her here
Honors
Grateful for these opportunities, humbled by the recognition & proud to be affiliated with these organizations
2012 California Cherry Blossom Princess
Since 1948 more than 3,000 young women leaders from across the United States have represented their respective states, territories, and countries to celebrate the unique and enduring friendship between the United States and Japan. As Cherry Blossom Princesses, these young women engage with leaders in government, business, arts, and media.
UC Berkeley
Haas Departmental Undergrad Woman in Business Award
All graduating Haas Seniors are evaluated for the criteria of each award. One woman in the business undergrad program is selected by faculty and program staff based on her contribution to Haas business school and her potential as a future business leader.
SEEK ADVENTURE
I'd rather have stories to tell rather than stuff to show.
From trying new things to traveling, I'm naturally curious and love to learn. I enjoy new experiences and breath taking views.
SPEND
QUALITY TIME W/ FAMILY & FRIENDS
When we have each other, we have everything.
My family and friends are the best team I could ever have. I do not say this enough, but thank you for all the love and support.
PLAY COMPETITIVELY
"If you ain't first, you're last" - Ricky Bobby, Talladega Nights
I am up for any sport - especially tennis. If you want to play, challenge accepted.
Yale Entrepreneurial Fellow '18 -'20
Yale School Of Management
Up to five fellowships are available each year. A committee of Yale SOM alumni, entrepreneurs, and investors select the recipients.
50 Young Asian American Stars in Politics
Asian Fortune Magazine
#Hack4Congress DC Winner
Harvard Kennedy School Ash Center & OpenGov Foundation
#Hack4Congress was a series of intensive, multi-day events hosted in three cities nationwide with the goal of innovating inefficient government practices. There were 620 participants and the winner from each host city presented in front of elected officials and senior technology staff. Our team, Coalition Builder won the DC contest.
40 Under 40
National Association of Asian Pacifics in Politics and Public Affairs (NAAPPPA)
NAAPPPA established this list to highlight the growing number of AAPIs who are beginning to dominate the professional unelected side of politics.
50 on Fire Finalist
DC Inno Media
Recognizing civic-minded innovators who are devising solutions for today’s problems and adding to D.C.’s allure as a hub for social entrepreneurship.
Filipino-American Youth Leadership Program
Philippine Embassy
One of 10 U.S. Filipino-American Leaders chosen by the Philippine (PH) Embassy to partake in an immersive program in the Philippines to meet and dialogue with top PH government officials (PH President, VP, Speaker of the House, etc), business leaders, media, artists and cultural experts.
Work Hard, Play Harder
Here are a couple of things I love to do for fun