Alumni Spotlight: Melissa Reeves (’08)

We’re highlighting our alumni near and far to see where are they now and what they’ve been up to since their time at UTM. See what your fellow classmates have been up to with our Skyhawk Notes—and share your update and for a chance to be featured in our alumni spotlight series.

A Foundation for care

For Melissa Reeves, a passion for helping others has always been at the heart of her career. Today, that passion is evident in her work as a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and founder of Renew Medical Spa in downtown Union City, Tennessee, where she combines her healthcare expertise with a commitment to helping patients feel confident and healthy.

A 2008 graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, Melissa credits UT Martin with providing the foundation that launched her successful career in healthcare.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without my education from UT Martin,” Melissa said. “The nursing program prepared me well for my career and state boards. The clinical experiences, hands-on labs and knowledgeable instructors were unmatched. I am so thankful for the experience and knowledge gained through UTM.”

During her time at UT Martin, Melissa immersed herself in campus life as a member of Chi Omega, Sigma Theta Tau and the American Nurses Association. She fondly remembers the traditions and friendships that made her college experience special.

“So many memories come to mind,” she said. “I especially loved Homecoming Week and Greek Week. Cheering on friends and participating in all the activities those weeks held were some of my favorite memories.”

After graduating, Melissa began her career as a registered nurse in surgery before earning her master’s degree from Union University and becoming a certified family nurse practitioner. Over the years, she has gained experience in primary care, women’s health and aesthetics, building a diverse healthcare background that continues to shape her work today.

In 2023, Melissa turned a longtime dream into reality when she opened Renew Medical Spa in downtown Union City. As founder and nurse practitioner, she leads a team dedicated to helping clients look and feel their best through aesthetic and skincare services. Her years of experience in women’s health inspired her interest in skincare and wellness, ultimately leading her to create a space focused on confidence, self-care and education.

Melissa and her husband, Adam, who is also a 2008 UT Martin graduate, live in Union City with their two sons. While much has changed since her days on the UT Martin campus, her commitment to serving others remains constant.

Whether caring for patients, mentoring others in healthcare or growing her business, Melissa continues to embody the values of service, leadership and lifelong learning that she developed as a student at UT Martin.