A career built on learning and service has defined the life of Marissa Haugh. She has combined her passion for child development with her interest in health and wellness, creating a professional path that spans classrooms, hospitals, and fitness coaching. Today, based in Oceanport, New Jersey, she dedicates her skills and energy to guiding people of all ages toward healthier, more fulfilling lives. Her foundation was built through years of education. After high school, she enrolled at the University of Rhode Island and earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies. This degree gave her insight into the needs of individuals and families at different stages of life. She expanded her studies with a Certificate in Fine Arts and Foundation from Parsons’ School of Design in 2001, which provided a creative outlet alongside her academic focus. In 2003, she earned a Master of Science in Child Life from Bank Street College, preparing her to support children and families coping with medical challenges. Marissa’s professional experience began while she was still a student. She worked as a daycare leader and then took on the Talbot Perkins Children’s Services caseworker role in Brooklyn, assisting with adoption and foster care cases. Soon after, she became the Lead Camp Counselor at Epiphany Nursery School Camp, where she developed art and cooking projects while managing daily activities. These early opportunities gave her practical skills in both education and care. 1998 she joined Trevor Day School in New York City as Head Teacher. She managed classroom activities, identified student needs, and adapted teaching methods to encourage learning. After completing her graduate studies, she transitioned to hospital settings, where she could combine her academic training with direct family support. At Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York, she worked as a Child Life Specialist, serving in pediatric units. She offered therapeutic interventions for children facing conditions such as asthma, cancer, cystic fibrosis, HIV/AIDS, and organ transplants, while also helping families manage the stress of hospitalization. Marissa later moved into a role at Monmouth Medical Center in New Jersey as an Early Intervention Developmental Specialist. She conducted assessments and provided interventions for infants and toddlers up to age three who experienced developmental delays. Her work also included close collaboration with families, ensuring children and parents had the needed resources. Since 2001, she has remained an active member of the Child Life Council, showing her long-term dedication to child development. 2017 she expanded her professional reach by completing a Certificate in Fitness and Nutrition from the Academy of Sports Medicine. She then established FIT, FULL, AND FOCUSED in Oceanport, where she now works with clients to design personalized nutrition and fitness plans. Her coaching includes evaluating eating habits, guiding food preparation, and building strategies for long-term health. She strongly emphasizes education, teaching clients to make informed choices about nutrition and lifestyle. Her dedication to fitness is another key part of her story. She has completed marathons, participated in CrossFit competitions, and participated in endurance events such as Tough Mudder and Spartan races. These personal experiences give her perspective and credibility as she guides others toward their goals. Marissa’s life and career show how education and compassion can intersect in many ways. She has devoted herself to supporting others, from helping young children in classrooms and hospitals to guiding adults toward better health through nutrition and fitness. Her story continues to reflect the values of service, knowledge, and perseverance that have shaped her journey.