Marissa Q. Coleman

Marissa Q. Coleman is the transformational coach, governance strategist, and keynote speaker behind Make Shift Happen International, a boutique consulting firm and heart-centered methodology that equips leaders with the competencies they need to initiate change and navigate hard transitions both personally and in business. 

A master’s-level social worker and former nonprofit CEO, Marissa has spent over a decade coaching and consulting with tens of thousands of leaders across hundreds of mission-driven organizations worldwide. She specializes in governance development, interpersonal conflict resolution, organizational turnaround, and innovative program design. Known for her refreshing transparency and results-driven approach, Marissa uses real-life examples—including her own journey of navigating hard shifts in life, love, and leadership—to help leaders move from uncertainty to clarity with courage and confidence. 

Marissa has supported boards of directors, executive teams, and senior leaders through governance restructuring, leadership transitions, and strategic pivots. She is certified in board education, relationship systems coaching, change management, social-emotional intelligence, and building cohesive teams. As a champion for racial equity and inclusion, Marissa brings a compassionate, inclusive perspective to her work, ensuring all voices are heard in the governance process. 

When she’s not making shift happen, Marissa enjoys traveling, indulging in the arts, and spending time with her family.