ACC Staff Spotlight: Melani Sukanen
It is time to get to know Melani Sukanen, ACC Senior Accountant! Find out how Melani Moves Mountains at ACC!
Tell us a bit about yourself:
Originally from Michigan, I have lived in four US time zones: Michigan, Illinois, California, and Colorado. I am an avid Packers fan and proud parent of a 2-year-old daughter. I hold an MBA from Robert Morris University of Illinois, where I also played volleyball on a scholarship. My professional experience includes serving as a director at an aviation school near LAX in Los Angeles and have worked in the cashier's office at ACC, previous to my accounting role.
As an avid traveler, I have visited several countries, including spending a month in Italy, and have traveled to all 50 states. My adventurous spirit has led me to participate in a sea turtle conservation trip in Costa Rica, and a dinosaur dig in North Dakota. Additionally, I have been skydiving, I have snowboarded many mountains around the country, and I am scuba certified.
I enjoy reading, hiking, kayaking, and spending as much time outdoors and near the water as possible. I also love the time spent with my daughter and my Golden Retriever, Jordy.
What is your job at ACC?
Senior Accountant
What do you do at ACC (explain your role)?
I am a dedicated member of the fiscal department, where I oversee various financial responsibilities including cash management, fixed assets, capital construction accounting, GASB 87 Leases, ACC storefront operations, and equipment surplus. Additionally, I provide support for any accounting-related tasks as required. I also assist the cashier's office with rate table duties, processing refunds, and ensuring smooth overall operations.
How long have you been at ACC?
7 years
Are you a part of any clubs / organizations / committees at ACC or outside of ACC? What are they and why did you choose them?
I am a member of Sigma Beta Delta, an international honor society for business. I previously served as President of the Robert Morris University, IL Chapter. I chose this society because it directly aligned with the direction of my degree and goals.
I would love to be a part of more clubs and committees in the future.
Why did you choose ACC?
I applied to ACC with the intention of relocating to the Denver area from California. The opportunity to serve as Manager of the Cashier’s Office was particularly appealing, as it aligned well with my previous experiences. From the beginning, I recognized ACC as a positive work environment that values work-life balance. During the interview process, I was impressed by the professionalism and kindness of everyone I met, as well as their genuine care for students and colleagues. Additionally, I was motivated by the prospect of working for the State of Colorado.
What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?
I consider my greatest accomplishment at ACC to be attending the Leadership Academy at the start of my employment. My project involved developing online storefronts for various departments within the college, aimed at streamlining payments to be more efficient, secure, and user-friendly for students and community members. This initiative significantly reduced cash payments and improved cash management processes. Currently, we have 14 online storefronts, including a CampusCE setup for Workforce programs. Throughout this project, my mentor was exceptionally supportive, available, and easy to collaborate with.
What is your mountain (ultimate goal)?
I am seeking a financial leadership position at ACC to support the mission and goals of the college, its students, community, staff, and faculty. My passion for working at ACC drives my desire to continue growing within the institution. One of my primary objectives is to foster collaborative leadership that will directly influence strategic financial goals and enhance the student-focused environment.
What's your favorite ACC memory so far?
One of my most valued memories at ACC was attending a Women’s Conference in San Diego with two of my respected colleagues. We had the privilege of listening to inspiring women leaders, including the first female NFL referee, Sarah Thomas and Olympic skier, Lindsey Vonn. The conference fostered a positive and empowering environment, complemented by the beautiful city, ocean, and weather. It was also an opportunity to get to know my two colleagues and build strong working relationships.
Tell us a fun fact about you / Something people may be surprised to find out about you.
While attending college in downtown Chicago, I lived in the Marina City Towers, also known as the "Corn Cob" buildings, located on the river. Additionally, I resided in a dorm that served as a filming location for the movie "The Dark Knight."
Top 5 Vacation Spots
Italy and Europe - I was fortunate enough to spend a month overseas with my mom after college
Anywhere on the Beach (Aruba and St. Thomas were some of my favorites)
Costa Rica- Where I attended a "Save the Sea Turtle Mission"
Roadtripping around the US, seeing National Parks and Mountains
France (Paris) is a bucket list trip for me
What is your advice to future and current students at ACC?
My advice for future and current students is to take ownership of your journey. It's more than just grades and classes; it's a time to discover what you truly want in life. Ask questions, build relationships, stay open-minded, and enjoy this brief period of your life. Not everything will go as expected, and that's okay. Learn to pivot, grow, and gain insights from every experience.