Name: Melody Marrs
LT Class Year: LT 2005
Company Name: Goodwill-Suncoast – Director of Fund Development & Community Relations
Melody and Laura caught up over coffee at First Watch downtown.
“I’m always impressed by her ongoing volunteer commitment to the Chamber, LTA and other favorite organizations—especially while working remotely from South Carolina! Our conversation wandered delightfully through a wide range of topics: the historic 1922 Cody Fowler House, the unique history of the Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club—once a winter hunting retreat—grandkids, caring for elder loved ones, the Temple Terrace Arts Festival, wallpaper, and the Education Foundation. And, of course, we talked about her professional passion: Goodwill Industries–Suncoast. With more than 1,000 employees across 10 counties, their mission is to transform lives through lifelong learning and the power of work.”
- Tell us, why LTA? (for you, what separates LTA from other business leadership programs?)
As an LT'05 alum, I have to say that LTA has been one of the greatest experiences and resources I and any business professional could have. LTA continues the leadership journey, as you meet and engage with other dedicated business and community leaders. Over the years, my LTA connection has provided the opportunity to build long-lasting relationships on multiple levels with people I may have otherwise never met. So many other programs ‘end’ and don’t offer continued engagement like our LTA does. LTA keeps on giving if you do the same, and contributes to our strength as a growing, thriving metropolis.
- Describe a time when the LTA experience impacted your life or career?
When I made a career change 15 years ago, my fellow LT classmates and LTA friends went to great lengths to encourage and support me during this transitional time. It made it a world of difference in how I looked at this big change occurring in my life. Their friendship, guidance, mentorship and even job referral and references throughout the job change process, which we all know is always a difficult time, contributed to my success. And once employment was secured, LTA continued to support my new role, and has contributed greatly to my workforce success. It was truly the best change I ever made; and it was made easier due to the relationships I had built within LTA. I now focus on how I can help others as they begin and work on their own leadership journey.
- What is a LTA benefit you wish everyone knew about?
That the people you meet and friendships made can last a lifetime. LTA friends are there for you through life's many changes...from advising and helping to advance your career, in reaching personal and professional goals and become a stronger leader, supporting life changes such as children growing up and leaving home, welcoming grandchildren, and taking care of aging parents and grandparents. Continuing to stay engaged with LTA and the Chamber has helped me to build and strengthen relationships throughout the years, and the activities are some of my greatest pleasures in life.
My best words of advice: Join a committee. It will keep you involved with people, the Chamber and LTA when it can be easy to drift away.
Fun Facts About You/Local Knowledge:
- What are your holiday plans? Special traditions?
Family time is the best! Although our children and grandchildren are in different parts of the country, we work to spend time together near or on special holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. We typically rotate between their homes and locations to celebrate together! And of course, picking out the perfect tree is a favorite! Favorite holiday tradition is decorating the house and tree, and turning on the lights!
- Latest movie, book, streaming series or a combination?
I love reading…especially historical and mystery novels. I can get lost and lose track of time so easily! Although not a big fan of TV or movies in recent years, my favorite streaming shows are older, produced in the mid-2000 years when I rarely had TV time. Favorite shows: White Collar and Franklin & Bash. It’s always fun to see comedy and law combined as the interplay between characters is so much fun!
- Favorite spot to meet friends/colleagues for coffee, lunch or happy hour-----
Breakfast is a favorite…so First Watch, yes…Cracker Barrel and small business coffee shops like Cozy Coffee Cafe (Temple Terrace) are always a hit!
- For staycation in Tampa Bay, you like to…
Nothing better than the gulf beaches…always a beautiful time walking, shell collecting, viewing awesome sunsets.
- When out-of-town guests are visiting, you plan….
Visits to the Riverwalk are always fun…great places to see and eat, and you get to ‘walk off dinner’! I visited the Water Street area recently with my granddaughter and I have to say…it is looking just like Vinik’s early watercolor sketches in sharing the vision!
- Any hidden treasures/recent discoveries you’d like to share?!
I wouldn’t say it’s hidden, but kayaking in upper Tampa Bay is just beautiful. You can paddle among the mangroves and make your way out to the Bay….it’s always a fun time. And don't hesitate to cross the bay, there are also museums in St. Pete to visit!
- Any upcoming initiatives/passion projects we need to know about?
I moved a couple of years ago to South Carolina, and primarily work remotely. But I make visits back to Tampa Bay at least once monthly to work for a few days, visit friends and business partners. My husband and I have always had a passion for remodeling homes, having done several over the years in Tampa. Now, we have our ‘forever’ home (or so we think). We are working on projects one at a time up in SC. Although it can be challenging, it’s so much fun to see and enjoy the changes made….it’s worth the work!
And, I would be remiss if I did not plug the grooviest race in Tampa Bay: The Goodwill Hippie Dash is a run/walk event on May 9, 2026 in downtown Safety Harbor’s City Marina. Registration is open! https://goodwill-suncoast.org/hippie-dash/