Melissa Campisi has reached her definition of success by absolutely loving going in to work. Professionally, she plans and executes special events in support of Mount Sinai Hospital and has a very notable piece of advice for other young professionals…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I plan and execute special events in support of Mount Sinai Hospital. We organize several high profile fundraisers, which include Strike out Cancer and Chef’s Challenge® for a Cure. One of my highest priorities is to help foster the spirit of philanthropy in our young professionals group, Future Sinai, while overseeing the group’s events and providing strategic direction for all of their initiatives.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I have been involved in planning events since my grade 12 prom! Since then, I have nurtured my love of creating unique events and unbelievable guest experiences. I initially started my career in the corporate world of television and eventually was given the opportunity to co-chair an event called The Panty Schmooze, which is in support of abused women and children in the GTA. Needless to say, that event went over very well and from there things snowballed and I landed a position in the non-profit sector, focusing solely on fundraising and event planning.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
I love to sit around a table and watch a simple idea flourish into an amazing event theme or complex fundraising model in the course of minutes. Knowing that I am working towards a greater good is daily inspiration and motivation. Mount Sinai recently opened two new mother and baby floors that our events helped fund. It is incredible to see how the money we raise has a direct impact on patient care and to know that you have played a small part in that success is wonderful.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Fingers crossed; in a more senior event and fundraising role within the non-profit industry.
What does success look like to you?
Waking up every morning and absolutely LOVING going into work.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
The Sinai Soiree of course!
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
My mother and father have always told me that if you follow your dreams everything else, most notably success, will fall into place. I would have to extend that advice to all other YPs out there.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Philanthropy is obviously very important to me. I support Parkinson Society Canada and I am currently the chair of the Unionville/Markham SuperWalk. The event supports people living with Parkinson’s disease through research, education, advocacy and support services. I also support Plan Canada’s Because I am a Girl campaign, Movember and everything that Mount Sinai is behind! I really believe that all causes are good causes and try to support in whichever way I can whenever possible.
What to you is notable?
Opportunities for success don’t always come knocking. Creating your own path and building your own dreams is notable.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other? Blackberry, still haven’t jumped ship but I must admit, I can’t live without my MacBook Pro.