Mahj Life Instructor Guild > Teaching FACE-TO-FACE and ONLINE, nationwide!

Melissa is the founder and creative force behind The Midwest Mahjong Society, a colorful, community-driven Mahjong group based in Springfield, Missouri. Known for her eye for design, thoughtful branding, and joyful approach to play—including the society’s beloved Missouri Joker tile—Melissa brings both heart and imagination to everything she builds. While she proudly leads the Society’s events, style, and vision, she works alongside a collaborative circle of enthusiastic, experienced players who share her passion for helping others learn and grow.

Melissa joined an established Mahjong group of women and quickly discovered that their shared excitement—strategy questions, play-night planning, and tile talk at all hours—needed a better home than an endlessly buzzing text thread. That spark led her to create a Facebook group that soon evolved into what is now The Midwest Mahjong Society: a welcoming hub where players could connect, learn, and celebrate the game together.

As an instructor, Melissa is known for her friendly, confidence-building teaching style. She loves breaking the game down in ways that feel relaxed, approachable, and full of “aha” moments. Her creativity and leadership have shaped the Society into a vibrant space where beginners feel supported, experienced players feel inspired, and everyone feels included.

Today, The Midwest Mahjong Society hosts weekly games, themed events, and engaging learning sessions—all rooted in Melissa’s mission to make Mahjong accessible, joyful, and beautifully presented. Her newest endeavor, The Jade Magnolia, is a dedicated event room thoughtfully designed with her Mahjong community in mind. Bright, elegant, and welcoming, the space is perfect for teaching, playing, and celebrating Mahjong, while also serving as a versatile gathering place for clubs, workshops, and meaningful community connections. It’s a space where conversations linger, friendships grow, and traditions take shape—one tile at a time.

Student Skill Level: Beginner

In-Person Lesson Group and Guided Play Size: Up to 4 players 

Microcredentials:

First Principles Promise: I promise to teach you the first principles of mah jongg using the official rules, giving you a strong foundation and the confidence to play with anyone, anywhere.

Variations Awareness Pledge: I pledge to distinguish house rules from the official rules and help you understand their impact so you can confidently adapt and enjoy the game anywhere.

Pride In Excellence Initiative