Trailblazer Spotlight: Michael Melanson, fiscal and business analyst

Every morning, Michael Melanson begins his day by deciding it’s going to be a good day. It’s a strategy he encourages others to live by as well.

“Everyday, you wake up and determine whether it’s going to be a good day or a bad day,” he said. “Decide that everyday is going to be a good day!”

It’s that mentality that carried him through school at Salem State University in Massachusetts, where he received his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. From working as a staff accountant for a small airline to working as the vice president for an international market research company, Melanson worked a variety of jobs over the years.

He found his biggest professional accomplishment was there at the market research company.

“The most rewarding experience was seeing people grow over time and due to that growth, create opportunities for their career expansion and promotion,” Melanson explained. “Being able to contribute to the success of all those people in some small way, was truly gratifying.”

Day of Trailblazers, 2022

Melanson finally found the comradery he was searching for when he accepted a job at USF in 2008. He started working as the interim manager for fiscal and administration in the College of Education. Melanson also worked in the College of Engineering for some time as well, before beginning at the College of Nursing in 2020 as the fiscal and business analyst.

“I truly enjoy the business group and how we function as a helpful and supportive team.”

Among his accomplishments at USF, Melanson created a USF CRA (Certified Research Administrator) beginner designation course and a USF CRA-Advanced designation course. He was also one of the first three people to complete the advanced course.

Looking ahead at the College of Nursing, he says he’s looking forward to what’s to come.

“With the growth challenges ahead, it is so exciting. I feel we will all have a chance to give input and have a positive impact on this growth.

Story by Cassidy Delamarter