Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1503289
32 BY DARLENE DONLOE HAS E ARNE D RE PE C T "I've been the only person of color at some companies. Some thought I was too quiet. I wasn't quiet, I was learning. I was assessing the situation. Now my opinions are respected." MGM NATIONAL HARBOR P R E S I D E N T A N D C O O MELONIE JOHNSON B M & T ••• July/August 2023 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com W hen it comes to her career, Melonie Johnson has rolled the dice and ended up with that magic seven or 11 every time. She's now at the top of her game as the president and chief operating officer (COO) of MGM National Harbor, which means it's a sure bet she knows a thing or two about the gaming industry. For the last 25 years, the Louisiana native has skyrock- eted into the apex of the gaming industry, proving she is the woman for the job and forcing the industry to sit up and take notice of her three decades of multifaceted dynamism. All eyes were on Johnson when the true power player with the small-town persona and infectious smile became the first and only woman of color to run an Atlantic City casino. She is disappointed that her designated "first" is still considered a big deal in 2023. "It saddens me that it's a topic of conversation," said Johnson. "It should be the norm. I shouldn't be a unicorn. When I started moving up, I had a seat at the table. I was respected. I wasn't scared to share my opinion. I didn't feel I had to change who I was. Now I wear my natural hair. I'm just Melonie Johnson." Johnson has always had a commitment and resolve to be the best. Part of that commitment is ensuring that she helps others who are interested in climbing the corporate ladder. Johnson, who came from humble beginnings, believes in making a daily connection with her team by greeting each one as soon as she hits the casino floor. She believes that the same personal touch was instrumental to her ascent within the male-dominated industry. Surprisingly, Johnson's overnight success didn't begin until she was 46, but for good reason. "My first job was being a mother to three children," she said. "I knew there would be restraints if I moved. They needed guidance, dis- cipline, and a good foundation. I knew I could explore later." She not only explored, but she also excelled. Johnson's presence and position in a patriarchal industry can only inspire other women determined to jump into the industry. "My goal is to work as hard as I can to develop minori- ties to become presidents," said Johnson, a graduate of the University of New Orleans with a bachelor's degree in accounting. "Being a Black woman, I didn't have a playbook." Johnson, who comes from Lacombe, a small town in Louisiana, said her parents always wanted her to be the best at whatever she chose. "My biggest challenge was working in an area of the country where if you looked like me, you were not going to get that job," she said. "I've been the only person of color at some companies. Some thought I was too quiet. I wasn't quiet, I was learning. I was assessing the situation. Now my opinions are respected." During her career, Johnson has held key leadership positions at major properties throughout the United