Melinda Krauss Lister '92

Melinda Lister is a distinguished alumna of Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, Indiana, where she earned her BA degree, double majoring in English Literature and English Writing with a Minor in Sociology. She is an Alumna of Ursuline Academy. At Ursuline, she demonstrated early leadership as President of the Student Council in 1992, setting the stage for a lifetime of impactful roles. Her academic foundation and innate drive propelled her into a dynamic professional journey marked by adaptability and a commitment to excellence across various industries. 

Melinda’s career began in Wilmington, Delaware, in the financial sector, where she held positions at First USA Bank, Juniper Financial, and Barclays, honing her skills in business operations and marketing strategy. She later transitioned into the tech world, contributing her expertise to Ultimatebid.com during the early days of e-commerce. 

Since 2002, Melinda has owned a marketing consulting business, leveraging her experience to empower organizations. Notably, as Chief Marketing Officer of Gestalt10, she championed community-focused initiatives, promoting the Gorton Community Center of Lake Forest, Illinois, and the John and Nancy Hughes Theater. Eventually, she relocated to the west coast to support family endeavors, balancing her entrepreneurial spirit with personal priorities.

A passionate advocate for heritage and community, Melinda is a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Her leadership extends to numerous volunteer roles, including most recently, Ursuline Advancement Committee member and Co-Chair of President Mung Chiang’s Purdue University Parent and Family Leadership Council.

Melinda has championed several initiatives at Ursuline, including the formation of The Lister Family Scholarship in honor of her parents, Norman and Patricia Kraus. She has participated in sponsoring the IDEA Studio, where women can further their interests in STEM and Entrepreneurial fields. 

Across 12 corporate moves, Melinda has curated a life rich in ideas, friendships, fun, and philanthropy, leaving an indelible mark on every community she joins. Melinda resides outside of Chicago with her husband Chris of 27 years and their four children, Jack, Madelyn, Olivia, and Amelia, where they have always lived by the mottos: “Jump and The Net Will Appear” and “Bloom Where You Are Planted.”