For Melissa Caraway, what started as a detour from her original career path became a lifelong passion. Lakeview Center’s Special Populations Network (SPN) operations director reflects on a remarkable 31-year journey shaped by compassion, teamwork and a commitment to those who need it most.

Melissa’s path to Lakeview Center began unexpectedly. “I went to college to become a teacher, but when there were no openings, I found myself working as a coordinator at Pensacola Developmental Center,” she shares. It was there she discovered a calling to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. While working at Pensacola Developmental Center, her dedication drove her to pursue and earn a master’s degree in public administration and certification as a behavior analyst (BCBA).

In 1994, Melissa joined Lakeview Center as a behavior specialist, quickly advancing to lead therapist. Over the years, she continued to grow professionally, becoming a unit supervisor for Supported Independent Living, then a component director—a position she held for more than two decades—before stepping into her current role as SPN operations director in 2024.

“I’ve always had a big heart for special populations. These individuals are often misunderstood or overlooked, and they’ve always held a special place in my heart,” Melissa says. Her unwavering dedication to ensuring they receive the support they deserve earned her the inaugural Lakeview Center Team Member of the Year award in 2023—a testament to her compassion and impact.

Melissa’s role has grown significantly since she first joined. She worked alongside her predecessor, Tonya Kerchoff, for decades, eventually stepping into her current leadership role in 2024 after Tonya’s retirement. “Tonya always treated me as a peer and valued my knowledge and experience. We made a great team,” Melissa recalls.

“Teamwork has always been huge for me. I grew up playing basketball and softball, so I know one person can’t do it all. It’s the same in the real world—you have to be a team player,” Melissa explains. She values the collaboration across departments at Lakeview in helping to navigate complex challenges.

To those just starting their careers at Lakeview Center, Melissa offers simple but powerful advice: “Be dependable. Show up and follow through on what you say you’re going to do—it makes all the difference for the people we serve.”

Melissa Caraway’s story is a testament to the profound difference one person can make with compassion, dedication and a willingness to embrace life’s unexpected opportunities.