TCC Distinguished Alumni

Melissa Littleton’s journey at Tacoma Community College (TCC) began as a Workforce Training student and mother of four young children. When she received financial aid to go back to school, she enrolled in TCC’s Business program, where her entrepreneurial spirit shone—earning her first place in the 2020 Williams Factory Small Business Incubator Business Idea & Pitch Competition.

Her leadership qualities quickly stood out. Littleton served as Student Body President in 2020 and 2021, advocating for student needs and leading through a time of great change. Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Management in Business in 2022, she was awarded the prestigious President’s Medal for academic excellence.

While at TCC, Littleton expanded her horizons beyond business. An internship with the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges sparked an interest in public service. That passion led her to Washington, D.C., where, as both Student Body President and State Board Legislative Intern, she advocated for students on Capitol Hill. The experience shifted her trajectory.

After graduation, Littleton joined Governor Jay Inslee’s office as a Regional Representative, serving communities across the South Sound and Olympic Peninsula. She was later appointed to the Interagency Committee of State Employed Women (ICSEW) for her commitment to public service. Today, she continues this work under Governor Bob Ferguson.

Reflecting on her journey, Littleton said, “TCC allowed me to explore. It gave me the opportunity to immerse. It allowed me to cultivate my leadership. It was one of the most magical times in my life, because I completely evolved through that opportunity.”