As we continue our series of articles highlighting the many faces of leadership throughout the CHSAA membership, our hope is that by taking a small glimpse into the window of their leadership background you will gain a greater understand of why they are such strong advocates for the vision and core values of the Colorado High School Activities Association.
This week we are joined by Melissa Sivernell, Northglenn High School Athletic Director. With 27 years in education, Melissa has been a district and building-level administrator for the past 15 years, serving as the Northglenn AD for one year. With an undergraduate degree from the State University of West Georgia and a master’s degree from University of Georgia, Melissa brings a perspective to her job that is unlike many others. Her insight will leave you looking forward to hearing more.
What has your journey in education consisted of?
I taught middle school for 12 years, worked as a district assessment coordinator for 5 years, and been a high school assistant principal for 10 years.
What activities did you participate in as a college student?
I was in the honors program and Christian Campus Fellowship in college. The Honors Program took a trip to D.C. I was also the RA and student leader for Christian Campus Fellowship for 4 years.
What do you love most about your current position?
Working with staff and creating relationships with them as well as seeing students in the classroom and outside the classroom doing what they are passionate about
What are some of the challenges you face in your current position?
Balancing my time in the building between Activity and Athletic issues while supporting curriculum & instruction my departments. This year I also oversee Math and PE.
What do you love most about your school. district, organization, and/or community?
Our students and staff and very welcoming and inclusive.
Who are some of your mentors? Tell us why.
My principal, Sharee Blunt, is an amazing mentor. We were assistant principals together at Northglenn back in 2010-2013 and became friends at that time. Sharee was an athletic director and offers so much knowledge and advice in my new role. She truly loves this school, the students, and the staff. This is apparent in the connections she makes with others and the decisions she makes daily.
What impact has Title IX had on you personally, and on your profession?
I was in charge of Title IX investigations at my previous school. I was surprised at how many Title IX complaints/concerns come in at one high school. It’s important to listen and really hear where students and families are coming from when they bring a concern. Coming into this new role as a female athletic director, I feel that I am more aware of women’s impact on sports and other areas of life I may have not realized before.
What is one tidbit of advice you would share with young women entering a male-dominated profession like yours?
Be open and speak up. Don’t be afraid to share. You have good ideas too. Also look at your own biases toward men. You may have some that you don’t even realize.
How do you see yourself impacting the next generation of female leaders?
My aspiration is to be a high school principal. I have been blessed to hold roles at the high school, which include curriculum, instruction, assessment, discipline, safety, activities, and now athletics. I love to mentor female leaders within education, both adults and students alike. It excites me to see them change, grow, and excel toward their own goals and aspirations.
On behalf of the Northglenn High School community, the CHSAA membership, and our office staff, I want to thank you for sharing your story with us.