Women of Influence | Melissa Brunner
TK: What does this honor mean to you both personally and professionally?
Melissa: Personally, being named Woman of Influence is acknowledgement that my work is seen and appreciated. I strive to be fair, respectful, and accurate. My goal is to tell the stories of our community: to inform about issues of the day; to highlight unique, inspiring, and courageous actions; to shine light on needs; to give voice to those who may not otherwise be heard. Knowledge is power, and an informed community is able to work collectively toward a better community.
From a professional standpoint, I feel this honor recognizes the role journalists play in our community. This past year has been tough for media. Not only has it been challenging to sort through mountains of data, information, and events on continually evolving stories and tough issues (the COVID pandemic, racial justice, elections), we've done so while becoming targets for people on all sides of the issues. I am grateful our community realizes our team never loses sight of our obligation to serve in the public interest, convenience and necessity.
TK: How would you describe your leadership style?
Melissa: I would describe myself as someone who takes a collaborative approach and leads by example. I will not ask anyone to do something I'm not willing to do myself. I expect the best from myself, therefore I expect others to give their best as well. I don't expect everyone to have the same skill level, but I do expect everyone to try, and will respect that effort.
TK: Who has inspired you the most throughout your journey?
Melissa: My first inspiration would have to be my parents. My mom and dad taught me hard work will pay dividends toward reaching your goals. As I've continued in my career, I have taken a lot of inspiration from those whose paths I've crossed. I think of all the children and families I met through our work with the MDA Telethon; I think of a certain teenager who was so positive about life, even as she was dying of cancer; I think of a young girl, standing at the front of a courtroom, confronting the man who killed her father; I think of the women moving past domestic violence, families coping with a loved one's suicide, the people celebrating a second chance at life through organ donation, the mother who wanted her child to attend the neighborhood school and became part of a case that went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court and changed history. All of these people opened their lives to me, and trusted me to share their stories. They are the heroes in our community, and I keep a small piece of each one in my heart.
TK: What is one piece of advice you have for young females at the beginning stages of their careers?
Melissa: I would tell young women beginning their careers to not waste their seat at the table. Work hard, do your homework, and be prepared. Don't expect anything to be handed to you, but also don't settle for less than you deserve. You don't know everything - and that's okay! Ask questions and learn. Don't worry so much about failing. If you don't try, you won't succeed.
TK: What is your theme song?
Melissa: If Today Was Your Last Day
TK: What would your current life #hashtag be?
Melissa: #justbreathe
TK: What makes you laugh?
Melissa: Baby animals. How can you not be happy watching furry creatures play?
TK: Who would you want to play you in a movie, and why?
Melissa: Sandra Bullock. When my husband and I started dating, I was telling him how a few people told me I looked like Sandra Bullock - but I didn't see it. He agreed we didn't look alike, and thought I was making it up. Not long after, we walk into a restaurant, and the hostess says, "Has anyone ever told you that you look like Sandra Bullock?" It was pretty funny! That story aside, Sandra Bullock seems not to take herself too seriously, and I love her laugh!
TK: What is your favorite app and why?
Melissa: The WIBW News app, of course!
