Meet Our Team
At Wharton Curtis Press, our team brings decades of experience in publishing, design, and distribution.
Melissa Wharton, Publisher
Melissa Wharton is the Founder, President, and CEO of The Church Online, LLC, and the driving force behind Wharton Curtis Press. A classically trained musician turned media strategist, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Bucknell University and a Master’s in Strategic Communication from Liberty University, and she is completing a PhD in Strategic Media. For over two decades, Melissa has guided dozens of prominent and bestselling authors from concept to bookstore shelves by overseeing high-stakes production, marketing, and distribution campaigns that have moved hundreds of thousands of copies. Her blend of creative insight, data-driven strategy, and steadfast leadership has earned her a reputation as a trusted voice in communications, marketing, and faith-based publishing, making her the ideal steward for authors seeking both excellence and impact.Bob Hohn, Vice President of Creative
Bob brings nearly two decades of experience in creative leadership, branding, design, and digital media. He has led award-winning projects across video, marketing, and interactive platforms, working with both ministries and major brands. Bob is passionate about helping organizations communicate with clarity, creativity, and impact.
Teri Watanabe, Managing Editor and Editorial Standards Director
Teri leverages a Master’s degree in Writing and more than 20 years of editorial and publishing experience to develop and manage publication teams that achieve the highest quality impact. She has guided authors in developing their works for a wide range of publishing markets. She is passionate about cultivating collaboration, compliance, and integrity across the entire editorial workflow. As the lead architect of publishing standards and compliance policies, Teri ensures that Wharton Curtis Press titles meet both industry standards and author expectations.
Brian Jackson, Senior Editor and Research/Quality Assurance Chief
Brian has more than 15 years of experience in writing/ghostwriting, proofreading, and managing editorial teams. He has created and refined written copy for a wide range of nonprofit organizations, churches, and individuals. With meticulous attention to detail, Brian ensures that every manuscript is free from errors, thoroughly fact-checked, and expressed well in the author’s authentic voice.
Carmen Washington, Author Relations and Community Partnerships Lead
Carmen brings a background in editing as well as over 20 years of administrative and community relation experience to Wharton Curtis Press. A former English teacher, she planned, coordinated, and managed an annual school district-wide book fair in partnership with Barnes and Noble that included local authors and performers to raise money for local charities.
Kristin Chiao, Publishing Operations Manager
Kristin combines 15 years of expertise with a deep sense of ownership, personal commitment, and care. She excels at managing project schedules, coordinating teams, and seeing initiatives through to successful completion.
Jennilyn Castillo, Publishing Operations Assistant
Jennilyn has over a decade of experience in editorial production and project coordination, supporting publishing operations with dedication and expertise. She keeps projects organized and on schedule by infusing precision, efficiency, and a collaborative spirit into every stage of publication.
Maggie McKinney, Production Manager
Maggie offers more than a decade of design experience and a unique combination of creative expertise paired with project oversight to deliver publications of the highest quality. She has guided book projects from concept to completion by managing everything from cover design and marketing materials to interior and ebook layouts. Maggie is deeply passionate about helping authors’ works come to life and ensuring that every finished book is both precise and beautifully crafted.
James Brady, Publishing Technology and Distribution Lead
James Brady, Integrated Services Manager at The Church Online, LLC, brings over 20 years of enterprise technology experience to Wharton Curtis Press. He specializes in IT infrastructure, digital publishing, and content delivery networks. James leverages his expertise in large-scale systems integration to advance publishing technology and distribution with precision and innovation.
Natasha Terensky, Marketing and Insights Manager
Natasha has over a decade of analytical and creative expertise, along with a background in consulting and agency work. She develops data-informed campaign strategies and oversees performance optimization at Wharton Curtis Press. Her ability to pair insight with storytelling helps authors connect with readers in ways that are both meaningful and measurable.
Nora Wells, Digital Acquisition and Media Lead
Nora applies a thoughtful balance of strategy and care to every project. With more than a decade of marketing experience across digital and print media, she has guided campaigns from big-picture vision to measurable success. At Wharton Curtis Press, she leads digital acquisition with a steady, collaborative approach that helps authors and teams succeed together.