The Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce announces that Melissa Brown, owner of Brown’s Restaurant on St. Charles Place and the Boardwalk, will receive the 2024 Salute to Working Women Award and will be honored at the Chamber of Commerce Luncheon on April 24 at the Ocean City Yacht Club. The award recognizes women in business for their outstanding professional and personal achievements.
“We are very happy to honor Melissa as our 2024 Salute to Working Women,” says Michele Gillian, Executive Director of the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce. “She has a passion for serving her customers and the Ocean City community. We are lucky to have her involved in our community. She certainly is deserving of this honor.”
Melissa Brown has been at Brown’s Restaurant since 1995, infusing it with her passion for culinary excellence and community engagement. Born and raised in Upper Saddle River, NJ, Melissa’s journey into the hospitality industry began after she graduated from Northern Highlands Regional High School. She furthered her education by earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Restaurant and Hotel Management from Johnson and Wales University in Providence, RI, in 1992.
After completing her studies, Melissa embarked on a career with the Sheraton Corporation in North Carolina, where she met her husband Jim Brown. Together, they made the decision to relocate to Ocean City, NJ in 1995, where Melissa continued to thrive in the hospitality sector. Her dedication to the community extended to her role as Marketing Director for the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce until she embraced the joy of motherhood, welcoming four children: Hailey, Cynthia, James, and Paige.
Despite her family commitments, Melissa’s passion for Brown’s Restaurant never waned, prompting her return to the establishment for the remainder of her career. The Brown family has always been deeply committed to supporting local charities and City special events such as First Night and other community initiatives, underscoring their dedication to giving back and enriching the lives of others.
Detective Jennifer Elias of the Ocean City Police Department will be honored with the Community Service Award, acknowledging her outstanding contributions to Ocean City. Serving as a school resource officer, Detective Elias has demonstrated exceptional leadership, providing invaluable mentorship, dedication, and kindness to children and the wider community. Her unwavering commitment to service has significantly benefited all those she has interacted with, making her a deserving recipient of this recognition.
The luncheon will honor all working women at home or in the workforce on Wednesday, April 24 at noon at the Ocean City Yacht Club. The luncheon is open to the public and is $40 per person. For more information, to make a reservation, or to place a congratulatory ad in the program book, please contact the Chamber office at 609-399-1412 or email us at info@oceancitychamber.com
