When asked to reflect on a meaningful college experience, many University of Florida alumni recall moments in the classroom, nights spent with friends, or the excitement of tailgates and game days in The Swamp. For Melissa Neeley, however, one of her most cherished college experiences came through service.
Melissa, who now serves as CEO of the Ryan Nece Foundation, a Tampa Bay nonprofit dedicated to developing servant leaders among high school students, was President of Students for Big Brothers Big Sisters at the University of Florida from 2011 to 2013. She remains deeply grateful for her experience with Big Brothers Big Sisters and is especially proud of her father-in-law, Ken Neeley, who has served as a Big Brother in the Tampa Bay community for more than 10 years.
The program Students for Big Brothers Big Sisters began in 2010 as a small group of students with a shared passion for mentoring quickly grew into a dedicated organization committed to supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters. Melissa recalls that they were not just a club that met once a month and called it service. Their goal was to show up in a way that made a meaningful difference in the lives of their Littles.
“Throughout our time on campus, we found creative and often memorable ways to support the mission,” Melissa says. “We organized fundraising events, hosted Give Back Nights at local restaurants, planned a Field Day, volunteered at holiday celebrations, and even created our own version of Bowl for Kids’ Sake. Our goal was always the same: to raise awareness, build community, and create meaningful experiences for our Littles.”
While Melissa is proud of what the student organization accomplished, the most impactful part of her experience was being matched with two incredible Littles, Brianna and Charmaine.
“Brianna loved art, and our time together was often spent creating side by side at the Boys & Girls Club,” Melissa shares. “Charmaine brought endless energy and enthusiasm, and we spent our outings playing basketball, four square, and attending University of Florida sporting events. One of my favorite memories was taking her to her first-ever Gators football game and watching her experience the excitement of The Swamp for the first time.”
These relationships taught Melissa that mentorship doesn’t have to be complicated. Often, it simply means showing up, listening, and following a child’s lead.
To anyone considering getting involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters, Melissa offers simple but powerful advice: “Start. Show up. The difference you make in a child’s life, and in your own, is worth every moment.”
