BREAKING THE WAVES

As the first female CEO of the South Carolina Port Authority, Barbara Melvin (’92) has navigated a compelling journey from the peach orchards of Fort Valley, Georgia, to the bustling docks of Charleston. Her story of success is a tale of ambition, education and the courage to navigate uncharted waters.

As early as her formative years at Peach County High School, Melvin was interested in leadership and service. With a passion for politics ignited early on, she set her sights on Georgia Southern University, which boasted an excellent reputation for its political science program.

“I applied to some other schools, but Georgia Southern was the choice I wanted,” said Melvin. “As soon as I got accepted, that was the end of it. I don’t even think I opened up any other letters.”

Georgia Southern was more than a university for Melvin; it was a launchpad. As the institution transitioned from college to university status, Melvin, too, was transforming, and her political science studies fueled her aspirations. The University’s blend of academic rigor and a vibrant social scene taught her the art of balancing life’s priorities, a skill that would prove invaluable in the high-stakes world of port management. “Georgia Southern struck an ideal balance between academic rigor and vibrant campus life,” said Melvin. “It’s probably one of the early examples of rapid growth at a university due to success in athletics, primarily football. Yet, it kept its smaller family feel. It was an environment that encouraged students to excel academically while cherishing the broader college experience. So, I would have to say that Georgia Southern was very successful in teaching students how to be well-rounded and prioritize education but still have a lot of opportunities for camaraderie and fun.”

While at Georgia Southern, Melvin immersed herself in campus life.

“I was in a sorority, a little sister for a fraternity, and participated in intramural sports,” said Melvin. “I just had a really great time. But I did it in four years because that’s what my parents would pay for. I worked every summer to help supplement my spending money, and I went the summer between my junior and senior year to pick up some extra credits so that I made sure that I was out of there on time. “Georgia Southern taught me how to engage in all of life while setting priorities,” she added.

A significant influence during her time at Georgia Southern was Professor Darin Van Tassel from the political science department. Melvin speaks of him with gratitude, “He was a strong adviser for me.” Van Tassel’s guidance was instrumental in Melvin’s development, providing her with the confidence to navigate the complexities of her subsequent career choices.

After graduating in 1992, Melvin’s career took an exciting trajectory. She served as a policy analyst in the Georgia Secretary of State’s office and later the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget — positions that

expanded her political acumen. But it was her role in government relations at the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce that caught the eye of the South Carolina Ports Authority, who in 1998 recognized her potential and brought her aboard as their first in-house lobbyist.

Melvin’s ascent through the ranks was a testament to her adaptability and vision. From government relations to operations, she embraced each new challenge. Her unconventional journey from political science to logistics underscores a central tenet of her philosophy: embrace every opportunity, even those that seem beyond your horizon.

“I have lived my life never on the side of being safe, but truly on the side of taking those intelligent risks, really trying to better myself, accepting all opportunities that might even sound scary or think that I don’t have the time to do,” she said.

As CEO, Melvin’s responsibilities are vast and varied. “It changes on a daily basis,” she said, detailing activities from board meetings to international travel. Under her leadership, the port has focused on operational excellence, infrastructure development and expanding its cargo base. Melvin emphasizes the importance of her team, saying, “I’m privileged to lead a team of a thousand people… and have truly the best team of port operators and professionals that work here.

“It’s the honor of a lifetime to get to do the job that I’m doing today.”

One of the most significant projects under Melvin’s leadership was the Charleston Harbor deepening project, a nearly $600 million initiative. “It involved every aspect of customers, federal agencies, resource agencies, every level of government,” she recounts, highlighting the complexity and scale of the project.

Barbara Melvin’s story is more than a personal triumph; it’s a narrative that inspires. It speaks to the power of education, the importance of seizing every opportunity, and the impact one individual can have on the global stage. As she continues to steer South Carolina Ports toward new horizons, Melvin carries with her the spirit of Georgia Southern — a spirit of resilience, joy and boundless potential.

In her own words, Melvin’s advice rings clear: “Always have a plan and goals. Take intelligent risks. Accept every opportunity to better yourself.” It’s a mantra for success that has not only elevated her to the pinnacle of her profession but also serves as a guiding star for the next generation of leaders.

“As I look back, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunities and support I received at Georgia Southern,” she said. “The University’s unique blend of academic excellence, supportive community, and the wisdom of mentors, shaped not only my career but also my perspective on life. Georgia Southern will always hold a special place in my heart.”

— Liz Walker