Melissa Shrader, WGA VP, leads with joy and is guided by her grandmother’s favorite quote, “Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, used up, worn out, and proclaiming, ‘Wow, what a ride!’” She believes in sampling from a wide variety of experiences and pressing into every twist and turn her ride offers.
How did you get involved with WGA?
For 12 years, I have been a remote worker for Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), living in Fleming Island. I wanted to engage beyond my neighbors and build relationships with professional people in Jacksonville. Jana Ertrachter, Ellen Wiss, and Sheila Collier introduced me to WGA and its exceptional women.
What motivates you as a leader?
I am motivated by seeing those around me grow, succeed, and stumble, but also learn and reinvent. I am better because I am surrounded by people who teach and extend grace when the lessons do not stick. I am energized by efforts which help organizations or people reach their potential. I believe my value as VP for Membership and Programming lies in identifying connections, processes, and tools that can optimize the good work already being done. I hope to strengthen alignment between the efforts of our volunteers. The way we collaborate should feel natural, even joyful, and should be additive to the member experience.
What do you do/enjoy outside of WGA?
I married a Renaissance man, am raising two teenagers, and travel the world with a globally diverse team. Learning and lessons are everywhere. I also find peace in the outdoors – walking the dogs, boating, or camping.
Tell us a “fun fact” about you that many do not know.
I have taken an ice bath in Cascais, gone backpacking on the AT, and recently performed in community theater. This year, I have already taken a class learning to blow glass and am hoping to try skeet shooting. My grandmother loved the quote, “Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, used up, worn out, and proclaiming, “Wow, what a ride!” I believe in sampling from a wide variety of experiences and pressing into every twist and turn my ride offers.