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Member Highlight: Melanie Stefanidis

12 Feb 2019 8:54 PM | Anonymous

MEET MEMBER: Melanie Stefanidis

Can you give us a brief introduction of who you are and your current business?

I moved to Raleigh a year and a half ago from Seattle and previously lived in the Florida Keys. I am currently working for DH Griffin Wrecking in their Raleigh Division. My previous work background ranges from a retail manager, flight attendant, financial aid advisor at a university, massage therapist, spa director, legal assistant /office manager. My work life has not been very dull.

Why did you join BPW and what positions have you held during your tenure with BPW?

I had previously attended BPW meetings in the Florida Keys and when I moved here I was looking for a group of like-minded women. I would say the deciding factor for me was when I was on our website and I saw the t-shirt "Inspired by my Tribe" I knew I was making the right decision. I am currently on the social committee.

What hobbies/interests do you have outside of work?

I enjoy hiking, my Orangetheory workouts and finding great places to eat in Raleigh and Durham.

What was the best concert you ever attended?

On the Sunset Pier in Key West, I saw Galactic with Trombone Shorty and the Blues Travelers. Two different concerts, same location.

What are you passionate about?

My passions are traveling and moving to new cities. My sisters affectionately call me Bedouin - I like to call it wanderlust.The "moving to new cities" is currently off the books since I just purchased my first home - ever - in Brier Creek.  I am constantly looking for new countries to visit - my current list of places to go to is New Zealand, Thailand, Vietnam, and Croatia.

What is the craziest thing you have ever done (that you can share)? 

With less than 6 weeks of preparation I hiked across northern Spain on the Camino de Santiago for over a month. Needless to say, living 7 feet above sea level on a very flat island in the sunshine state did not prepare me very well for crossing the Pyrenees.

What are you currently watching on Netflix or TV? 

I just recently finished bingeing the Australian show "Offspring" on Netflix

Which four individuals, living or dead, would you like to eat dinner with the most? 

Dave Chappelle and Tina Fey - to laugh, Gene Kelly - to teach me to dance and Linda Carter because duh - she's Wonder Woman!

What is your favorite family tradition? 

My parents do not do it anymore but for Greek Easter my dad would roast a whole lamb in our backyard. It is quite an ordeal because you have to start early in the morning and, before we had a machine to turn the goat, the men would dig a hole, start the coals and manually rotate the lamb while drinking ouzo. Now while this is happening - all your family starts to arrive and you are eating a drinking all day long. If you close your eyes and imagine My Big Fat Greek Wedding....that's exactly what it is like. Growing up in Queens you always knew where all the Greeks lived during Easter especially if it was raining because you would see blue tarps everywhere.

What can BPW do to support you in your career? 

I do not think BPW needs to do anything but be there. I like knowing that I have women that I can talk to and ask questions. I also hope they feel comfortable to tell me if I walk out of the bathroom with my skirt stuck in my hose and can laugh about it with me. 

Want to be featured in our Member Highlight? Or want to nominate someone else? Fill out our Member Highlight form and we will be in touch if you or your nominee are selected.


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