March 2004
Meet One of BSA's Volunteers
Melissa Dunning
For
about four years now, Melissa Dunning has maintained the programming for
BSA's database. She started her own company, Megalo Software Systems, Inc.,
as a database consultant in 1978. She lives in a cozy cabin tucked between
Pinecliff and Nederland with the national forest as her neighbor. When she's
not in the woods hiking, snowshoeing or birding, Melissa likes to sew, read,
cook and be with her two dogs, Viking and Artos.
Q: Why are you a volunteer for BSA?
A: I love knowing that I am helping to preserve the quiet parts of this planet. When I first met with Kim (BSA's executive director), she was keeping all her membership information in a humongous spreadsheet. Although she was doing a heroic job of keeping the information current and accurate, she was unable to get the kind or reports that she wanted, so I moved her into an Access database. Now her time is freed up so she can focus on the goals of the organization.
Q: What's your favorite backcountry area?
A: My favorite hike is right outside my front door. I walk from here to the top of Rollins Peak most days, and rarely see anyone (unless they are lost). Rollins Peak isn't tall enough to attract any interest, but since it's so close, it provides me with a convenient and wonderful place to go.
Q: Other than being just great pets, your two dogs have exceptional talents.
A: My yellow lab and I volunteer at The Children's Hospital. He has a remarkable ability to connect with children and to help heal them with his love. His specialty is working with the kids in the locked psychology wards. My German shepherd has earned several titles in tracking, obedience and protection. He is great fun to work with and live with.Q: Why is preserving non-motorized areas in the backcountry important to you?
A: I'm fortunate to live in a quiet place in the woods. It is a very healing, happy place to be. I spent many years, particularly when I was starting my business, when my only opportunity to enjoy that quiet was when I was skiing or hiking. I