Melody Shekari
Chattanooga,TN
Summary
Accomplished attorney and nonprofit executive with over a decade of experience leading strategic initiatives, advocating for communities, and driving impactful legal and policy efforts. Proven track record in organizational development, legal counsel, cross-sector collaboration, & public policy.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Director
Women’s Fund of Greater Chattanooga
Chattanooga, TN
01.2024 - Current
- Directed strategic initiatives for advocacy and philanthropy organization dedicated to enhancing opportunities for women and girls in Tennessee and Hamilton County.
- Streamlined operations by realigning fiscal year, revamping budget processes, and reducing costs significantly.
- Implemented detailed assessment of community requirements to shape upcoming advocacy initiatives.
- Fostered strategic alliances with donors, policymakers, corporations, and community stakeholders to drive state and local initiatives.
Attorney & Consultant
Shekari Law PLLC
Chattanooga, Tennessee
01.2016 - Current
- Represented clients across various legal fields including criminal defense, business, real estate, municipal, probate, and civil litigation.
- Increased public awareness on key policy issues through strategic initiatives.
- Provide guidance on FCC regulations, election law, and municipal code.
- Appointed to serve on the City of Chattanooga Industrial Development Board in 2023.
Fellow
City of Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga, TN
01.2015 - 01.2016
- Secured $40 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation through collaboration with cross-agency partners.
- Delivered policy memos to the Mayor and City Attorney on infrastructure, economic development, and best practices.
Education
J.D. -
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA05-2014
Master of Science - Master of Public Administration
University of Washington
Seattle, WA08-2011
Bachelor of Science - Managerial Economics
Bentley University
Waltham, MA05-2009
Skills
- Strategic Leadership & Public Speaking, Legal Writing & Research, Policy Development & Government Relations, Program & Budget Management, Conflict Resolution & Negotiation
- Technology: Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, CRM Systems, WordPress, Social Media
Accomplishments
- Sole Award in Advocacy, Girls Inc., 2025
- Charles W. "Buz" Dooley Pro Bono Hall of Fame, Legal Aid of East TN, 2024
- Volunteer Lawyer of the Year, Chattanooga Bar Association YLD, 2021
- 40 Under 40, National Iranian American Council, 2021
- Causeway Challenge Grant Recipient, 2017
- Fellow, New Leaders Council Nashville, 2016
- Passed Series 65 Uniform Investment Adviser Exam, 2018
Affiliations
- Board Member, ACLU of Tennessee (2017 – Present)
- President & Board Member, Chattanooga Bar Association YLD (2019 – Present)
- Leadership Chattanooga, Class of 2021–2022
- Board Member, American Red Cross of Southeast Tennessee (2017 – 2020)
- Member & Board Member, Brock-Cooper Inn of Court (2019 – 2023)
Timeline
Executive Director
Women’s Fund of Greater Chattanooga
01.2024 - Current
Attorney & Consultant
Shekari Law PLLC
01.2016 - Current
Fellow
City of Chattanooga, Tennessee
01.2015 - 01.2016
J.D. -
University of Southern California
Master of Science - Master of Public Administration
University of Washington
Bachelor of Science - Managerial Economics
Bentley University
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