Eddie Melton, manager of Corporate Citizenship and Employee Involvement at Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO), the natural gas and electricity provider to 1.2 million customers in the northern third of Indiana, has helped to position the company as a “good corporate citizen.”
He’s facilitated a visible role for local leadership in community, civic and charitable organizations; developed a stakeholder awareness of community involvement, charitable contributions and accomplishments on an ongoing basis and developed appropriate means to evaluate NIPSCO’s effectiveness of charitable contributions all while maintaining active participation in well-regarded professional organizations that focus on corporate citizenship.
His community involvement reads like a résumé – he serves as vice president and chairman of the Public Policy Committee for Gary Chamber of Commerce, is a board member for American Red Cross of Northwest Indiana, was appointed by Governor Mike Pence to serve on the Indiana Commission on the Social Status of Black Males and Region 1 Work Council, presides over the American Association of Blacks in Energy – Indiana Chapter and is an executive committee member of the NAACP: Gary Branch.
When asked what more he’d like to accomplish professionally, he says, “Advance my career within the utility industry, specifically in the corporate citizenship/philanthropic area and expand my mentoring services and youth advocacy programs across the country.”
Read what else the Kentucky State University graduate has to say.
What do you find satisfying about your career?
I find that being able to influence corporate and foundation charitable giving provides a since of personal satisfaction. Knowing that your contribution could essentially impact the lives of hundreds and even thousands of individuals in need.
I also find it rewarding to help organizations establish effective mentoring services.
I also enjoy speaking to professionals and inspiring them to become leaders in their workplace and communities.
Do you have any mentors and mentees?
My mentor is Mr. Willis Bright. Mr. Bright retired from the Lilly Endowment in 2012. He has taught me how to help non-profit organizations build their capacity to improve their impact in the community.
Mr. Bright has taught me the importance of community service and mentoring young professionals.
What does one need to succeed in your career?
A person needs passion, conviction and knowledge.
If you could have a different career, what would it be?
I would be a news reporter or host a television show.
Any political aspirations?
No … I believe that my family and career deserves a lot of attention; right now, running for office is not on my radar.
Married? If so, to whom?
Crystal Melton
Children? If so, name and ages:
Aniya, 12; Melanie, 7; Eddie Jr., 5 and Christian, 3
