The Second Half Lifelong learning Institute has a new executive director, Roberta Melton, who will start her 
duties immediately and work for the first few days with Beverly Stevens, who is retiring after seven years in the position.
“I am looking forward to working with Roberta,” said Jennifer Brindisi, President.” After a thoughtful discussion, The Board of Directors voted unanimously that Ms. Melton would fit our present and future needs.”
Ms. Melton has 15 years of progressive management experience with nonprofit agencies. She has supervised, trained, and mentored employees at each agency through positive example. These agencies have achieved outstanding performance awards in their volunteer-based and staff-partnered groups and committees.
She has provided leadership and guidance to several agencies in the process of reorganization. These activities included developing volunteer governance guidelines, restructuring and staffing, and expanding community presence.
“I am honored to begin my journey with The Second Half Lifelong Learning Institute,” Ms. Melton said. “The commitment of the staff, Board of Directors, and group leaders is impressive. So is the fundamental nature of the organization.
“Curiosity is one of the most permanent and certain characteristics of a vigorous intellect. It’s delightful to be woking with – and for – people whose major goal is simply to continue learning and exploring.”
Board members were impressed by her infectious enthusiasm, her frank and direct answers to questions, and the fit between TSH current needs and Ms. Melton’s experience, which includes fundraising, promoting nonprofit organizations in the community, and working with volunteers. She also is experienced with financial oversight of nonprofit 501 © (3) corporations in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and California.
Ms. Melton lives with her husband, Vincent, in Rhode Island.
Besides Jennifer Brindisi, the Search Committee included Eileen Sorrentino, Vice President, Frederick Gifun, emeritus Board member and lifetime member, and John Fournier, member-at-large. They interviewed four candidates and selected two finalists for the Board to interview in a process that began in April.