MELINA DAVIS

Throughout her 35-year career, Melina Davis says that her favorite — and greatest — challenge has been learning to understand people’s motivations and goals.

“Whether we are in a family room or a boardroom, women have to command a leadership position to make sure progress continues,” she says. “Creative solutioning is a superpower for most women I know.”

Davis has imparted this wisdom to dozens of men and women she has mentored over the years while leading MSV, the professional association representing more than 30,000 physicians, residents, medical students, physician assistants (PAs) and PA students across Virginia.

“While it is important to be real about your capabilities and gaps as you learn and grow, it is imperative that we trust in ourselves and know we can figure elements out along the way and work with a team to fill in gaps we personally may not have,” she says. “Embrace your confidence, ladies, and be bolder.”

Previously serving as CEO of the American Lung Association of the Atlantic Coast, Davis also founded PlanG Holdings Inc., a consumer platform that allows people to donate to causes including schools, churches and charities.

She also serves on the media business Fast Company’s executive board and the American Medical Association’s Advocacy Resource Center’s executive committee. Additionally, she’s vice chair of the Virginia Credit Union and is governance chair for the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Business Foundation’s board.

Read more about the 2023 class of Virginia Business Women in Leadership Award winners.