About the Program: Rising through the ranks of the USDA Forest Service as history’s first black female forester, Melody Starya Mobley’s story could be seen as a remarkable example of systemic success. However, behind the walls of this proud institution, Melody suffered years of abuse, oppression, and tokenism that catapulted her into a lifetime of moral courage. After 28 years serving our public lands, followed by a decade of recovery, Melody emerges from the ashes of trauma to share her story. Her mission is to create positive change for groups that have been historically excluded from natural spaces.
About the Speaker: Melody Starya Mobley, a forester for 45 years, retired from the USDA Forest Service in 2005 and now lives in Arlington, Virginia, with her dogs and cat. Melody serves on the Forestry and Natural Resources Commission, the NAACP Environment and Climate Justice Committee, and is on the Board of Directors for EcoAction Arlington, a non-profit that helps restore and protect natural places. She spends most of her time in retirement volunteering in her local community by registering voters in underserved communities, teaching science and math in Arlington public schools, and serving as a DEI strategist for new and established organizations focused on environmental and social justice. Melody is also the chair of the Arlington Public School Science Advisory Committee. Her USDA Forest Service uniform and tools were accepted into the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of African American History and Culture permanent collections and her name is on the Wall of Honor in the National Museum of the American Indian.
Date & Time: Sunday, September 29, 2024. The lecture will begin promptly at 2:00 pm. Arrive 15 to 30 minutes early to ensure that you are seated on time.
Registration Fee: $10 per person. Children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult.
Registration Information: Register online or by calling the Barns of Rose Hill Box Office at 540-955-2004 (12:00 to 3:00 PM – Tuesday through Saturday). When our Box Office is closed, please leave a message. All ticket sales are final; no exceptions or exchanges.