Born in Peru and living in the United States since 1989, Alejandro Melendez-Cooper brings rich experience and deep insight to his every undertaking. 

With a background in art and architecture, including a Master’s degree in visual arts and architecture and a B.A. in Education, he founded an academy for the arts in Lima, established an arts program for New London children through Centro de la Comunidad, and coordinated an annual national children’s art and writing contest in Spain.  His artwork has been shown in numerous venues in the United States and abroad.

Alejandro earned a B.A. in Business Administration and Economics and has diverse experience in the development of entrepreneurial businesses, including successful endeavors in the areas of import/export, restaurants, aviation parts, jewelry, machinery, and medical supplies.  In addition, he established an organization to support the work of local artisans in Peru, and to export their handicrafts.

Alejandro developed an intense interest in negotiation and conflict management and after receiving training through the Harvard Law School Project on Negotiation, he founded The America Project Partnership (TAPP) to promote collaboration and partnerships among regional community organizations and businesses.  His experience also includes a broad array of organizational development activities including the establishment of The Hispanic Alliance to enhance the Hispanic contribution to the community.  He has worked with Neighbor 2 Neighbor to build coalitions among people of color and to bring unlikely and infrequent voters to participate in the 2002 elections.  Alejandro’s workshops and trainings in cultural competence and conflict management are always very well-received. 

He has held leadership positions with Connecticut College, Leadership, Education, and Athletics in Partnership (LEAP), and Centro de la Comunidad and other organizations.  Alejandro has received extensive training in family reunification and preservation.
He has served on many non-profit boards.  Presently he is applying his many skills as the Director of Community Health Center of Groton and New London.