Meet the Trailblazer who transforms non-profits

Melissa Hill Dees, Founding Partner, VP, HandsOn Connect Cloud Solutions

Meet Melissa

Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Melissa has worked as a radio disc jockey, event planner, and program coordinator for United Way. She's now working on an MBA with a focus on Digital Entrepreneurship. She loves to travel and read, and currently lives in Decatur, Alabama.

What does being a Trailblazer mean to you?

To blaze trails, to make it easier for nonprofits to accomplish their mission. If I can achieve those goals, then I'm a Trailblazer.

What was your initial vision as a Trailblazer?

The more we can automate for nonprofits, the more it frees up their staff time to do the things that can't be automated. Like building face-to-face relationships. If you're stuck in the office doing the things that Salesforce can do automatically for you, then you don't have time for those relationships.

What advice do you have for Trailblazers?

Don't let anyone tell you “No, it can't be done. We can't do it that way.” Innovation is doing something different. So don't let people discourage you.

what’s the Scariest moment you've had professionally?

The worst review I ever got was when a superior said I took too much initiative. I thought, “Am I headed down the wrong path? In an industry that doesn't appreciate initiative?” That was scary — but life changing.