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P E E R T O P E E R M A G A Z I N E · S P R I N G 2 0 2 5 23 MORE ONLINE Read more about Melanie from her 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award nomination. epubs.iltanet. org/i/1529256-2024/69 ó in the U.S., UK, and Asia, I was promoted to Senior Director of Infrastructure and Technical Support Services. I oversee the technology and A/V infrastructure, data centers, and local office support for our U.S. and international offices. We prioritize data management and technological innovation, aligning with modern trends and organizational needs. WHAT QUALITIES CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR SUCCESS? I have an innate curiosity and a life-long love of learning new things. I enjoy hearing other people's perspectives and excel in human resource management. I thrive in environments where I can build a team of professionals around a shared vision and purpose. Then, through our exceptional intelligence and tireless work ethic, we push the envelope together by implementing innovative technology. Another quality that shaped my path to success is a deep appreciation for receiving and providing mentorship. I had phenomenal mentors who provided me with valuable knowledge, advice, and encouragement, pushing me beyond what I thought I could achieve. Ultimately, I possess a certain resilience within my being. I was willing to outwork, outlast, and make personal sacrifices to continually learn new technologies. WAS YOUR JOURNEY EASY? Was it easy? Absolutely not! I am a black woman working in a field where my professional peers are predominantly white men. I navigated the complexities of rapidly advancing technology, managing both the work and the people, and worked long hours to stay ahead in my field. WHAT INSPIRES YOU? My inspiration comes primarily from my family members, those who shaped my foundation in the past, and the next generation, who are building on that foundation for their future. Throughout my career, I have followed my grandmother's advice: do what you can to extend hospitality and treat people as you would like to be treated. My grandmother's last conversation with me was over the phone when she went into the hospital for what she called a routine procedure. She knew she would not be returning home, and during my last in-person visit, she made sure I was aware of the location of all her important documents. She even had her burial dress dry-cleaned and ready—it was the dress she wore to my wedding. My grandfather shared stories about growing up in Mississippi and eventually moving to Louisiana. As his life began to wane, he prioritized sharing stories about his experiences as a World War II veteran. He wanted me to understand how enduring the impact of racism while serving his country overseas and back at home in the southern U.S.

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