Marissa Haugh's career reflects a life built on dedication to others. With a background that extends across child development, healthcare, and wellness, she has embraced opportunities to serve in many different ways. Now living in Oceanport, New Jersey, she continues to guide people toward healthier lives through fitness and nutrition, drawing on the knowledge and experience gained from years of education and professional practice.

Her academic path demonstrates her strong commitment to lifelong learning. After completing high school, Marissa attended the University of Rhode Island, earning a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies. This program gave her valuable insight into human growth across the lifespan, preparing her to support children and families in many contexts. In 2001, she added a Certificate in Fine Arts and Foundation from Parsons’ School of Design, highlighting her creative abilities. She later pursued graduate study at Bank Street College, earning a Master of Science in Child Life in 2003. These studies combined scientific knowledge with creativity, shaping her approach to child development and care.

Her work began during her college years. She first served as a daycare leader and became a caseworker for Talbot Perkins Children’s Services in Brooklyn, where she supported adoption and foster care services. Around the same time, she worked as the Lead Camp Counselor at Epiphany Nursery School Camp, designing creative projects and managing daily classroom activities. These early roles gave her direct experience with children and allowed her to practice leadership, organization, and empathy.

In 1998, she accepted the position of Head Teacher at Trevor Day School in New York City. She managed classroom activities, adapted teaching methods to meet student needs, and worked closely with families to promote learning. After completing her graduate degree, she transitioned into healthcare. At Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York, she became a Child Life Specialist, serving children in pediatric units. She worked with young patients facing serious illnesses such as cancer, asthma, cystic fibrosis, HIV/AIDS, and those undergoing transplants. Her role emphasized therapeutic interventions and family support during hospitalizations.

Her work in child development expanded further at Monmouth Medical Center in New Jersey, where she served as an Early Intervention Developmental Specialist. She conducted developmental assessments for infants and toddlers up to age three, designing interventions that encouraged growth and progress. She also worked closely with families to ensure children received the support they needed. Since 2001, she has been a member of the Child Life Council, maintaining her long-term commitment to the field.

2017 Marissa expanded into health and fitness, completing a Certificate in Fitness and Nutrition from the Academy of Sports Medicine. She then founded FIT, FULL, AND FOCUSED in Oceanport, New Jersey, where she offers personalized nutrition and fitness coaching. She works with clients to assess eating habits, health conditions, and fitness levels, developing customized plans to encourage healthier choices. Her approach emphasizes education, helping clients understand nutrition science, food preparation, and sustainable lifestyle habits.

Her personal dedication to fitness further supports her coaching. She has run marathons, participated in CrossFit competitions, and participated in endurance events such as Tough Mudder and Spartan races. These experiences give her practical knowledge of discipline and perseverance, which she shares with her clients.

Through her work, Marissa Haugh has consistently chosen paths that allow her to help others. From children in hospitals and classrooms to adults seeking healthier lifestyles, she has positively impacted them by combining education, compassion, and personal experience. Her journey demonstrates how service and knowledge can shape a meaningful and lasting career.