Melissa C. Thomas-Hunt is a Professor at the University of Virginia Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, where she also holds the position of Vice Dean. Her academic background includes a Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Behavior.

Prior to her current role, Thomas-Hunt served as Vice Provost at Vanderbilt University from July 2017 to May 2019. She also has experience as a Board Member at UKG, serving from May 2021 to June 2025.