By Kristy Zurbrick, editor
In London, this year’s grand marshal honors go to Melissa Canney, who retired in May after 36 years working in social service in Madison County. London’s July 4th parade steps off at 11 a.m.
“I have loved working in Madison County. There have been so many tremendous mentors, especially women. I’ve found it to be a very caring and generous community,” Canney said.
Originally from Hamburg, New York, just south of Buffalo, Canney moved to Ohio to attend Wittenberg University and stayed. She began her career in social service as the foster care coordinator for the Madison County Department of Human Services. She went on to serve as director of Madison County Family & Children First, program administrator for Champaign Residential Services, and executive director of the Madison County Health Partners Free Clinic. Most recently, she spent nine years as the student support specialist at London City Schools.
“My passion over these 36 years has been to improve the lives of people who may have suffered a disadvantage in life. My strength has been to create and facilitate resources to meet their needs,” she said.
Outside of work, Canney has been a member of the London Rotary Club since 1999 and served for many years on the Madison Health board. She was a member of the London City Schools board of education for 11 years and co-chaired levy campaigns in 2003-2005. She is a member of First Presbyterian Church of London, where she has served as a deacon and an elder.
“Melissa has been a pillar in our community, doing so many great things throughout the years,” said London Mayor Patrick Closser.
Canney and her husband, Jim, live in London and have been married for nearly 25 years. Between them, they have six children and 13 grandchildren.
Canney said the grand marshal honor came as a surprise.
“I think there are so many other people who are more deserving, but I view it as an honor and I am grateful,” she said.