Melissa Dill Earns Distinguished Defensive Tactics Instructor Level 5 Certification from CVPSD
- William DeMuth
- 13 hours ago
- 2 min read
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Freehold, NJ - The Center for Violence Prevention and Self Defense (CVPSD) proudly announces that Melissa Dill, Executive Director and Co-Founder of CVPSD, has earned the Distinguished Defensive Tactics Instructor Level 5 certification - one of the most rigorous instructor-level credentials offered by the organization.
The Distinguished Defensive Tactics Instructor certification program is a multi-tiered credentialing pathway that demands mastery across a comprehensive spectrum of personal safety disciplines.
The curriculum encompasses Threat Detection, De-escalation, Behavioral Analysis, and Combatives - including standing defense, ground defense, and weapon defense. Achieving Level 5 status represents an advanced command of these disciplines and a demonstrated ability to effectively teach and implement them in real-world environments.
"This certification reflects Melissa's unwavering commitment to excellence in violence prevention training," said William DeMuth, Director of Training at CVPSD. "Her ability to translate complex defensive tactics into accessible, trauma-informed instruction is what sets her apart."
Melissa Dill brings a uniquely powerful perspective to this work. A U.S. Navy Veteran (2000-2006) and survivor of violent assault, she co-founded CVPSD to transform her personal experience into community-wide impact. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology from Thomas Edison State University and has spent over two decades breaking barriers in male-dominated industries.
Her achievements have earned national recognition, including the 2025 NJ Governor's Volunteerism Award in the Founders/Innovators category and the 2024 Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award.
CVPSD is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Freehold, NJ, dedicated to stopping violence through evidence-based education and self-defense training. The organization holds a GSA federal contract and is listed as an authorized supplier on the United Nations Global Marketplace.
For more information, visit www.cvpsd.org or call 732-598-7811.
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Media Contact:
Center for Violence Prevention and Self Defense
732-598-7811
