Melissa McGuire is a Partner at Cathexis Consulting Inc., where she has played a central role in shaping the firm’s development, reputation, and values-driven approach since 2003. A Credentialed Evaluator with more than 20 years of experience, Melissa has led over 200 evaluations across diverse sectors, including health, education, workforce development, community investment, and knowledge mobilization.
Known for her strategic, solutions-oriented, and collaborative approach, Melissa designs evaluations that are rigorous, practical, and focused on real-world use. She brings a strong interest in innovation to her practice, with a deep curiosity about what’s possible in the evolving field of evaluation. She actively explores new methods, tools, and technologies — from data visualization to AI — to enhance the value of evaluation and improve how insights are delivered and used. Her work reflects a commitment to continuous learning, adaptive thinking, and helping clients get the most meaningful and actionable results.
Melissa’s background in law adds a unique lens to her evaluation work, offering deep expertise in policy analysis, legislative interpretation, and privacy and confidentiality issues. She is a trusted advisor to clients navigating complex systems, multi-stakeholder environments, and sensitive data.
A frequent presenter at national conferences and active member of the Canadian Evaluation Society, Melissa brings curiosity, integrity, and a deep commitment to equity and social value to her work.
Outside of work, Melissa is an avid adventurer who enjoys backcountry camping, international travel, and exploring new landscapes and local flavours — always curious, always climbing, and always learning.
Evaluation expertise
- Mixed-method, utilization-focused evaluation design
- Advanced qualitative analysis and synthesis techniques
- Data visualization and innovative reporting strategies
- Social impact measurement and performance frameworks
- Stakeholder engagement and developmental evaluation approaches)
Areas of focus
- Workforce development
- Community investment, and funding initiatives
- Health policy, public health, and healthcare programs
- Education, literacy, and learning outcomes
- Knowledge translation (KT) and mobilization (KMb)
- Social justice, equity, and legal system–related programs
Professional Memberships