Jowi (Clan Name): Raarno

Melisa Laelan is a native of the Marshall Islands, born and raise in the capital city of Majuro.  At age 17, she decided to leave the Islands to enlist in the United States Armed Forces.   Her career in the Army required her to travel globally, which gave her the first-hand exposure to other cultures.  It was then that she found her interest in working with people from different walks of lives. After ten years of serving in the Armed Forces, she ended her enlistment to attend University of Arkansas.  Shortly after her move to Arkansas, she discovered the need to have an interpreter in the court system. After two years pursuing her interpreter & license, Laelan became the first certified interpreter in the nation in 2013.  Subsequently, she was appointed by former Governor Mike Beebe to serve on the Arkansas Minority Health Commission.  Her official appointment makes her the first Marshall Islander to serve on a state agency capacity.  She was reappointed by Governor Asa Hutchinson.  She is a recipient of 40 under 40 award by Northwest Arkansas Business Journal in 2014. 

Laelan is the founder of Arkansas Coalition of Marshallese (ACOM), a not-for-profit organization that is a Marshallese-operated organization and focuses on health, leadership, education, and culture. ACOM is a Marshallese community-led non-profit organization that promotes the preservation and revitalization of the Marshallese language and culture. She is now the Chief Executive Director of the organization. Her daily work put her in the middle of social services and policy advocacy, especially around Marshallese issues. Her leadership led to recent changes in state laws. In 2018, Governor Asa Hutchinson signed a resolution that allows Marshallese children to have access to the State Medicaid program. Her latest policy work has led to the passing of bill HB 1488 and HB 1789, both bills give Marshallese mothers and children protection against human trafficking and adoption schemes. She continuously serves her community by bringing unique programs to the community that are impactful at a large scale and leading to social changes. Her relentless advocacy work has led to victorious in a 25-year battle to restore COFA Medicaid, extending the Medicaid program to over 56,000 COFA migrants living in the United States.

Laelan is married and a proud mother.  She is currently living in Springdale.  In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family.

Jowi (Clan Name) -Raarno

Jenitha Debrum is the dedicated Administrative Manager at the Arkansas Coalition of Marshallese (ACOM), a non-profit organization committed to supporting and uplifting the Marshallese community in Northwest Arkansas. With a profound sense of responsibility, she skillfully oversees the organization's daily operations, finances, and human resources, ensuring its efficient and effective functioning.

Born and raised in the picturesque Marshall Islands, an enchanting island nation nestled in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, Jenitha embarked on a transformative journey when she relocated to the United States in the late 2000s. Her initial sojourn led her to the vibrant coastal city of San Diego, California, where she began carving her path. In her early years, she contributed her administrative expertise to NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) before embracing her pivotal role at ACOM.

Since joining ACOM in 2018 as an Administrative Manager, Jenitha has been unwavering in her commitment to the Marshallese community. Her tireless efforts extend beyond the confines of her administrative duties; she actively participates in the planning and execution of programs and projects designed to enhance the health, education, and overall well-being of the Marshallese people.

Jenitha's character shines brightly through her humility, kindness, and intellect. Her heart beats for her community, and she readily lends her voice and advocacy to resolve misunderstandings and champion their rights. Deeply passionate about preserving and promoting the rich Marshallese culture and language, she serves as a bridge between her heritage and her adopted home. Fluent in both Marshallese and English, she brings a unique perspective and fluency that fosters understanding and unity.

In her cherished moments of respite, Jenitha enjoys the pleasures of travel, indulging her creative flair through interior design, and cherishing precious time spent with her beloved family and friends. Her multifaceted interests mirror her capacity to balance the demands of her professional role with her personal pursuits, all driven by her unwavering dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves. Jenitha Debrum stands as an inspiring advocate and leader, continually enriching the fabric of her community and beyond.

Jowi (Clan name) -Jowa

Fressana is a dedicated Pacific Islander Diabetes Prevention Program (PI-DPP) Lifestyle Coach, proudly serving the Marshallese Community. With roots firmly planted in the Marshall Islands, Fressana's journey has been one of educational achievement and community empowerment.

Born and raised in the Marshall Islands, Fressana pursued higher education and earned her certification as a Nurse's Aide. This educational achievement opened the door to new horizons, leading her and her close-knit family to the United States. Fressana's commitment to her community and her medical background have formed a powerful combination in her role as a Lifestyle Coach.

In her capacity as a Lifestyle Coach, Fressana plays a pivotal role in educating, empowering, and engaging the Marshallese community. Her tireless efforts extend beyond traditional coaching, encompassing a wide range of outreach activities. Fressana excels in connecting families with essential resources, facilitating access to ARkids, assisting with driver's license applications, navigating SNAP benefits, providing guidance on unemployment benefits, and much more.

Fressana's unwavering dedication to her community and her extensive knowledge of vital resources make her an invaluable asset to the Arkansas Coalition of Marshallese. She continues to be a beacon of support and guidance, helping the Marshallese community thrive in their new homeland while preserving their unique cultural heritage.

email: fressana@arkansasmarshallese.org

Jowi (Clan name) -Jowa

Wisa, a proud native of the Marshall Islands, brings her vibrant energy and dedication to our team as our newest intern. In 2019, she embarked on a journey to Springdale, Arkansas, where she began her pursuit of higher education.

Her determination and hard work culminated in her graduation from Springdale High School in 2020, marking a significant milestone in her academic journey. Wisa's passion for criminology has ignited her ambition to continue her education at the college level, where she aspires to delve deeper into the field.

We are thrilled to welcome Wisa to our team and eagerly anticipate the contributions and insights she will bring to our organization. Her enthusiasm and commitment to personal and professional growth make her a valuable addition, and we are excited about the promising future she holds.

email: wisa@arkansasmarshallese.org

Pacific Island- Samoa

Feiloaiga (Fei) Debrum is a dedicated member of our team, serving as a Lifestyle Coach in our Pacific Islander Diabetes Prevention Program (PI-DPP). With Samoan heritage flowing through her veins and a deep commitment to Pasifika culture in her heart, Fei is a passionate advocate for health and wellness within her community.

Originally from the Samoan Islands, Fei's connection to the culture and people runs deep. She brings her Islander spirit to everything she does, striving to make a positive impact on the lives of those she serves.

Fei's journey has taken her from her roots in the Marshall Islands to San Diego, California, where she resided with her loving Marshallese husband for a few years. Currently calling Springdale, Arkansas home, Fei has continued her mission to educate, empower, and uplift her community.

Her dedication extends far beyond her role as a Lifestyle Coach. Fei actively engages with the community, promoting health and wellness, safety, and community involvement and entrepreneurship. Whether she's encouraging healthy living, leading exercise sessions, or simply lending a helping hand to those in need, Fei's positivity and generosity shine through.

Fei Debrum embodies an incredible and optimistic mindset that uplifts those around her. We are fortunate to have her as an integral part of our team and a cherished presence in our lives. Her unwavering commitment to fostering a healthier and more connected community is truly inspiring.

email: fei@arkansasmarshallese.org

Jowi (Clan) -RiMwejoor

Michelle is a dedicated professional with a passion for advocating and serving vulnerable populations. Born and raised in the vibrant Orange County, California, she proudly represents the Pacific Island diaspora as a second-generation Marshallese American.

With a diverse heritage that includes Marshallese and Japanese roots, Michelle brings a unique perspective to her work. Her journey led her to Oregon, where she expanded her horizons and earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Services while raising three children.

In recent years, Michelle and her family made a home in Springdale, Arkansas. Her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others has been unwavering. She has held pivotal roles in her career, starting as a compassionate care coordinator and progressing to an empathetic policy advocate.

Currently, Michelle serves as the Policy Director and Communications Specialist for the Arkansas Coalition of Marshallese, where she leverages her skills to drive impactful change within the community. Her dedication to advocacy, combined with her multicultural background, positions her as a formidable advocate and an essential asset to the organization and community.

Michelle's journey is a testament to her resilience and commitment to improving the lives of those in need. She continues to make a profound impact in her community and beyond, making her an inspiration to all who have the privilege of working with her.

email: mpedro@arkansasmarshallese.org