Melanie Hall

What has been your involvement with UWR?

I began working with Utah Women Run (formerly Real Women Run, RWR) in 2011 when I was assigned to support outreach and event logistics by my boss when I worked as a Senior Marketing Manager at Salt Lake Community College. We planned for and held our first Winter Training that January and it was a hit! The response from women wanting to learn how to become a part of the political process was inspiring. I knew that RWR was an initiative that I wanted to be a part of and support. Over a decade later, I am still inspired by and rooting for the women who have come through our trainings, and by the amazing women that have worked on Utah Women Run.

Why is it important for you to be a board member / UWR chair

When women are at the table, collaboration and innovation happen. Women excel at exploring perspectives and finding practical ways to accomplish shared goals. Unfortunately, many women don’t think they belong at the table, believing they lack expertise or experience. Imposter syndrome can hold them back. I am motivated by the work to bring women to the table—to give them the tools and encouragement to lead. To speak up, to get involved, to advocate, to campaign, and to win.

Do you have favorite memories from UWR/RWR

Two things, that are not so much memories, but are incredibly validating. The first is that when women in public office hear that I am a part of Utah Women Run, they tell me they have done our trainings and it helped them get there. The second is that those same women, and so many others, volunteer their time to lift other women by being speakers, teachers and consultants at UWR trainings. They pay it forward.

What do you think the impact of UWR has been during your years on the board or in your career?

I am always inspired and motivated by the women I serve with, by the women who have helped with our trainings, and by the women who take our training and go onto to run for office. I have been mentored and have learned so much. It takes guts to lead, and I have had honor to learn that from UWR!