Psychology Department Honors Alumna

By Melyssa Allen

Meredith’s Department of Psychology recently presented its 2009 Distinguished Alumna Award to Brice Jones Melton, ’93, an educator in Hickory, N.C.

The award was announced following Melton’s speech as the Psychology Alumnae Speaker for 2009. This annual speech is sponsored by Meredith’s chapter of Psi Chi, the national honors society in psychology.

Melton talked about her experiences at Meredith, and how they led her to her current position. Her career path has included serving as a kindergarten and preschool teacher, a Smart Start consultant and in her current position as early childhood instructor at Catawba Valley Community College.

Positivity is one of the traits Melton recommended current students embrace for success.

“Meredith is a positive place, and you have lots of positive opportunities here,” Melton said. “One of the best things you can do for your career is to show up—if you are present and positive, you will do well.”

In keeping with Meredith’s campus theme, “Catalysts for Change,” Melton encouraged students to “become catalysts for change by serving, leading and learning.”

As the 2009 Psychology Distinguished Alumna, Melton’s name will be included on a plaque located in the lobby of Ledford Hall.