Executive Summary: Curry a ‘country girl,’ focused on communication, trust

Editor’s note: The Fort Smith Metro Daily News Executive Summary series is focused on looking under the title, so to speak, of a business, government, and non-profit executive in the Fort Smith metro.

Melissa Curry has worked as chief executive officer of Methodist Village Senior Living (MVSL) for the past nine years, providing leadership through a period of growth and transformation.

Under her leadership, MVSL expanded its campus with the development of a new assisted living community, an Alzheimer’s special care unit, administrative offices, an education center, and a campus park, along with a remodel and addition to the care center. During this time, the organization has grown from 175 to 250 employees, strengthening its ability to serve residents and families across the continuum of care.

MVSL is in the process of remodeling and opening The Village Early Learning Center, which will serve children from infancy through five years old, further expanding the organization’s commitment to supporting families and the broader community.

Curry serves on the boards of the Arkansas Healthcare Association, Fort Smith Adult Education Center, Mercy Foundation Advisory Board, Western Arkansas Planning and Development District, and the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce, and is committed to advancing senior care and community development in the Fort Smith region.

• What was your first job and what did it teach you?
My first real job, besides babysitting, was waitressing. I was so excited to turn 16 so I could get a real job, so on my 16th birthday I went out and applied at a local restaurant, interviewed the same day and started working that weekend. Honestly, that job and the mentoring I received from the owner, it shaped a lot of who I am today. It taught me how to work hard, serve others well, stay humble, and treat every person with respect. You learn quickly that everyone matters and that lesson has stayed with me.

• What is a principle or value on which you never compromise?
Integrity, always. I believe in doing the right thing, even when it’s uncomfortable. Trust is everything. Once someone loses trust in you, it is very hard to get back. It’s like trying to put toothpaste back into the tube. Almost impossible to do.

• What’s one belief you held strongly 10+ years ago that you’ve changed your mind about?
Earlier in my career, I thought strong leaders were supposed to have all the answers. I didn’t want others to think I didn’t know what I was doing. I don’t believe that anymore. The best leaders listen, ask questions, and aren’t afraid to say, “I don’t know, let’s figure it out together.” It’s about surrounding yourself with a strong team and uplifting each other.

• If you could change one thing about the Fort Smith metro, what would it be?
I wish more people truly realized how special Fort Smith is. There is so much to do, so many opportunities, and so many ways to get involved. When you engage, it not only changes you, you become more positive and it makes our whole community stronger.

• What seemingly small thing had a big impact on your life?
When I was 13, my pastor’s wife noticed that I was insecure and struggling to find my place. She looked at me and said I was smart and beautiful, and encouraged me to become the woman God created me to be. They were just words, but they made me feel seen, valued, and brave. I’ve never forgotten that very small act of kindness.

• What about you would surprise most people?
At heart, I’m just a country girl. I love being outdoors hiking, picnicking, spending time in the mountains, and enjoying quiet moments in nature. That’s where I can just relax.

• What qualities or approaches do you value most when collaborating with diverse stakeholders or team members?
I value honesty, kindness, and open communication. I believe the best ideas come from listening to different perspectives. Communication, respecting others’ opinions and listening truly is the key. When people trust each other and share a common purpose, so many wonderful things can happen.

• If you had a walk-up song – like in baseball – what would it be and why?
“Walking on Sunshine.” I’m a naturally optimistic person. Some might say I wear rose-colored glasses, but there are times when I need a little boost, and that song always lifts my spirit and reminds me to see there is joy in everything.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY SUBJECTS
Following are the links to previous posts in the Executive Summary series.
ArcBest Chair and CEO Judy McReynolds
Fort Smith Mayor George McGill
BHC President and CEO Marty Clark
Maryl Koeth Purvis, director of the Van Buren Advertising and Promotion Commission
University of Arkansas at Fort Smith Chancellor Dr. Terisa Riley
Fort Smith Public Library Director Jennifer Goodson
Bill Hanna, president, CEO, board chairman, Hanna Oil & Gas
Rodney Shepard, regional executive for Arvest Bank’s southwest region
Fort Smith Police Chief Danny Baker
Dr. Sandy Johnson, co-founder of Johnson Dermatology
Kyle Parker, president and CEO, Arkansas Colleges of Health Education