May Volunteer Spotlight – Melody Johnson, CP

NALA Volunteer Spotlight – May 2024
Melody Johnson, CP

Melody Johnson serves as NALA’s Ethics Chair and on the Professional Development Committee. Her influence extends far beyond her immediate workplace at Anderson Injury Lawyers in Fort Worth, Texas. She also serves as the Professional Development Director and Board Advisor to the Dallas Area Paralegal Association (DAPA), cementing her commitment to the legal community. 

Melody’s pursuit of excellence is marked by her AS in legal studies. However, she did not stop there. She earned her CP^® through NALA, a rigorous process that culminated in a significant milestone. 

“I took the exam in 2006,” Melody recalled. “In those days, we called it the Paralegal Bar. Although the journey to NALA certification was grueling, it is one of my greatest accomplishments.” 

She is excited to be preparing to earn her Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP^®) credential through NALA. 

Her dedication and proficiency in her field were further recognized when she received DAPA’s President’s Award in 2022 and DAPA’s Michele M. Boerder Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023. 

“Life is too short for just being,” Melody reflected. “I have made it my mission to build on my professional achievements by building a relationship within the NALA community.” 

Melody’s passion for her work shines through. She is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards within the profession and ensuring that NALA members have access to valuable resources and opportunities for professional growth. She is dedicated to fostering a culture of integrity, continuous learning, and excellence among paralegals. 

“I enjoy collaborating with other NALA paralegals to build NALA’s presence.” 

As an active NALA member, Melody loves the sense of community. Some of her favorite member benefits are professional development opportunities, networking events, and access to invaluable resources.  

Her advice to fellow members is to actively participate in networking events, take advantage of educational opportunities, stay updated on industry trends, and contribute to the community through volunteering or mentoring.  

“Advocate for the recognition and advancement of the paralegal profession,” Melody urged. 

Beyond her professional endeavors, Melody has a passion for traveling, baking, and gardening. She has recently developed a penchant for writing and may even be interested in writing a book.  

“I feel I have a lot of life in me,” Melody mused. “I want to accomplish everything I am looking to accomplish. Maybe then I can sit down and write that book.” 

Melody’s favorite quote is from L.R. Knost.  

“Life is amazing. And then it’s awful. And then it’s amazing again. And in between the amazing and the awful it’s ordinary and mundane and routine. Breathe in the amazing, hold on through the awful, and relax and exhale during the ordinary. That’s just living heartbreaking, soul-healing, amazing, awful, ordinary life. And it’s breathtakingly beautiful.”