Melody Foster
What is your connection to Georgia Tech?
I am a senior staff member in the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering.
What is your current professional role? Please list a few notable career accomplishments.
Currently, I am the Unit Administrative Officer.
Some of my notable career accomplishments include:
- Graduated from the GT Masters Series Executive Development Program which included research and collaboration on a group project that affected change in the way purchasing cards are used at GT.
- Member of inaugural Staff Happiness and Organizational Effectiveness “SHOE” Cabinet in the Woodruff School. The Cabinet was responsible for interviewing all staff in the school on various aspects of work life in the School and for leading the implementation of some of the ideas/changes that were identified.
- I was honored to receive the GWW Culture Champion Award, the CoE Culture Champion Award, and the CoE Staff Innovation and Process Improvement Award.
Why are you passionate about WoW?
While in school, and as I have advanced in my career, many times I would be the only, or 1 of 2, women/African Americans in the room. It was hard, but fortunately I have had people there to encourage and support me. I want to be able to provide that kind of support for our students.
What are your hobbies and passions?
I enjoy reading, listening to music, spending time with family and friends, volunteering at my church, and volunteering with youth organizations.
What is your favorite quote?
"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched -- they must be felt with the heart." -Helen Keller
What advice would you give a young female engineer?
Find the subject area that fires your passion. Be unapologetically yourself and never, ever give up.