#DifferenceMaker Showcase

The Difference Maker Award initiative began in 2019 as a way to honor Melissa ISD employees and community members who have made a significant impact at Melissa Schools. Each honoree receives a plaque and is recognized with a student-designed ornament on the Difference Makers tree. This digital showcase features all of our #DifferenceMaker honorees, along with their definition of "joy" or what they believe it means to be a Difference Maker.

"Difference Makers" was the 2019-2020 strategic vision at Melissa Schools.

The Difference Makers tree was proposed, designed, and built by Melissa High School art teacher, Ashley Fortune, over the course of three months. The tree fixture is made of welded rebar, linseed oil patina, and wire, and is affixed to the wall on the south end of the Melissa ISD board room, located at 1904 Cooper Street.

2024 Awardees

Porter Cameron

"Greasing the wheel makes the district run. 'For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.' - John 3:16"

Debi Crawford

"Cardinal Joy is something that radiates from those who feel it in their hearts to those around them. The strength of this joy demonstrates that when those around you are filled with joy, it is contagious. We all have days that are tough, but when you work and collaborate with others who have the joy - there is someone to pick you up when you need it. This is one of the happy secrets of Cardinal Nation."

Nate Hemsley

"I believe a Difference Maker is someone who is impactful in the lives of others both directly or indirectly. These people are also able to find joy in the success of others. They understand the concept of WE over ME."

Jessie Kube

"Cardinal Joy is watching students grow both academically and in their social/emotional maturity. I love helping our Cardinals realize they can do hard things!"

Ismael Lopez Jr.

"If you don't believe in yourself, then believe in me, who believes in you."

Kari Miller

"My Cardinal Joy is the profound appreciation I have for being a part of this incredible Melissa ISD community."

Matt Nally

"Bringing joy and making a difference in people's lives starts with simple acts of kindness and genuine connections. Whether through a smile, a helping hand, or simply listening, these small gestures can uplift spirits and foster a sense of community. By being mindful and compassionate, we can create a ripple effect that transforms not just individual lives but entire communities. It's the everyday moments of care and empathy that collectively build a brighter, more positive world."

Travis Pickup

"I believe a Difference Maker is someone who does the right thing, even when it is the difficult choice, and serves others in order to help them achieve their goals."

Shaine Power

"Being a difference maker means doing what is right even when it's the hard thing to do with the mindset of helping students and players move forward through relationship building and accountability. Difference makers have to be reflective, have a growth mindset, and be willing to listen, even if they do not necessarily want to because it is what is best for kids."