Q&A with Melissa Mehaffey, Phoenix Chapter President

Hi! My name is Melissa Mehaffey and I am the President of the Phoenix Chapter of the Oregon Alumni Association. I graduated in 2003 with a BA in Advertising and a minor in Business Administration. In 2004, I earned a certification in Festival and Event Management through the Oregon Continuing Education program and in 2008; I earned my Masters Degree in Education. Today I work as an Event Coordinator at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix. I love being connected to the U of O through my position as President of the Phoenix chapter. I also stay connected with the university through service as a recruiter in the Phoenix area. I am proud to be a “Desert Duck” and love showing support for the U of O here in the Valley of the Sun!

1. UOAA—what is (are) your fondest memory(ies) of UO?

My fondest memories of being a student at the U of O are endless. I loved my time as a Duck so much and am so thankful that I had the chance to experience life as a University of Oregon student. Most of my closest friends now are friends that I made during my time as a student at Oregon. I guess that is what I am most fond of, that fact that I made lifelong friends who share the same passion for the Ducks as I do!

2. UOAA—could you describe what it is like volunteering for your local Chapter?

Being involved with the Phoenix chapter of the UOAA is a fabulous experience! I enjoy being able to coordinate events for AZ Ducks and am excited about the future of the chapter. The chapter is growing and will continue to do so. Volunteering allows me to stay connected to the U of O and offers me the chance to meet new Ducks!

3. UOAA—what do you enjoy most about being a part of the local Chapter?

I truly enjoy being connected to other Ducks! It is so exciting to go to a Watch Party and know that there are other UO alums living in my community who wish to continue to support the university just as I do.

4. UOAA—what qualities, experiences or opportunities do you most appreciate regarding your education at the University of Oregon?

I tell people all the time that one of the best choices I have made in my life thus far is my choice to attend the University of Oregon. I never had trouble registering for classes I needed and the professors were always willing to take time out of their day to meet with me. When I walked across the stage at graduation, several professors wanted to shake my hand and give me a hug. Oregon stands out for many reasons, but the care and dedication that everyone associated with the U of O shows for the students, really makes me appreciate my years at the university that much more.

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5. UOAA—What are some of the improvements or changes at the UO, UOAA or local chapter that you are most excited about?

I am really excited about the new Alumni Center that is opening on campus. It will be a fabulous place for alumni to re-connect with the university while they are visiting Eugene.

6. UOAA—Do you have a single contribution as a UO student or volunteer that you are most proud of?

I am proud of all my contributions to the U of O, but my time as a Student Ambassador ranks at the top of the list. Through this position I was able to give campus tours and am proud of the fact that I had a hand in the recruitment of many new students at the U of O!

7. If you were to sum up why you are “a part of the UOAA” in one sentence or paragraph, what would that be?

When I chose to become a Duck, I chose to be a Duck for life- being a UOAA life member allows me to “spread my wings” no matter where life may take me!