Staff Spotlight: Melissa Detro

When did you start at UC Blue Ash and what are your current responsibilities?

I started at UC Blue Ash in February of 2011 as a contract employee and was hired full time in August 2011. I work in the Advising and Academic Services Center. I currently support students in science majors as an academic advisor. I have been an Assistant Director in our office for about a year. As part of that role, I supervise other advisors in the Science advising and Business advising clusters. I also manage the Academic Early Alert system processes and serve as a contact person for faculty utilizing this tool, and I coordinate training for new advisors in our office. This year, I am also serving as Chair of the Staff Representative Council.

What is your favorite thing about working at UC Blue Ash?

I love working at UC Blue Ash because I feel that our work here is truly transformative. I love that we are so student-centered. I feel that everyone at UC Blue Ash works to create a space where students can thrive. I was a first-generation college student, and I understand the impact a college education can have on a person’s life. I value being part of our college because we make higher education achievable for so many. I also love the collaborative nature of our college with different offices, faculty, staff, and administration interacting frequently and working toward common goals. My colleagues truly are also my friends!

Is there a fun or interesting fact you would like to share about yourself?

I really love learning new things, so I feel that people think I am adventurous. I have had a season ticket package for the Cincinnati Reds for a few years now. I enjoy spending time with my family at the games. I am an avid bargain shopper! I have two children and four dogs. It probably would not surprise many to learn that I was a Girl Scout and a Girl Scout leader for many years. I always share that my “fun fact” is that I am the same age as UC Blue Ash College. Another work-related interesting tidbit is that I have advised over 20 of our majors in some capacity over the years. My astrological element is water, so I have a strong affinity for being near water. It is very grounding and calming for me. A perfect day for me would be sitting on a shore reading a book!