CAPCSD Board Buddy
CAPCSD’s Board of Directors assigned a “Board Buddy” to each of its new board members to help transition into their new terms on the CAPCSD Board of Directors. To help our CAPCSD member programs get to know our new board members, each month the newsletter will feature a board buddy asking the new board member questions. This month, VP of Clinical Education, Andy Clare, posed these questions to the new VP of Research and Academic Affairs, Miechelle McKelvey.
What inspired you to join the board?
I’ve always believed that strong professions are built by people who invest in the success of others. Joining the CAPCSD Board felt like a natural opportunity to give back to the academic community that has shaped my own leadership journey while helping support the next generation of educators and leaders.
What unique perspective or experience do you bring to the board?
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working across diverse teams and leadership settings. Those experiences have taught me the importance of listening first, building consensus, and keeping the focus on mission-driven outcomes. I strive to bring a strategic perspective while staying grounded in the day-to-day realities our members face.
What are you most excited to contribute in your new role?
I’m excited to help connect big-picture vision with practical action. Great ideas only create impact when they lead to meaningful results, and I look forward to helping turn important conversations into meaningful progress.
What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
I genuinely enjoy puzzles and escape rooms. There’s something incredibly satisfying about piecing together clues and solving a challenge as a team.
What’s a book, podcast, or article that’s had a big impact on you recently?
The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek reinforced a philosophy I deeply value: true leadership isn’t about winning today—it’s about building something that continues to thrive long after we’re gone.
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
Abraham Lincoln. Beyond his leadership during one of the most defining periods in history, I admire his humility, resilience, and ability to lead with purpose during deeply divided times. Those qualities feel just as relevant today.
What are your hopes for the organization in the next year?
I hope we continue to strengthen connections within our organization and with the communities we serve. I’d like CAPCSD to be recognized not only for what we accomplish, but also for how we work together to achieve it.
What’s one initiative or area you’re particularly passionate about?
I’m especially passionate about member engagement and fostering an inclusive community. When people feel welcomed, heard, and valued, they’re more likely to share their talents, build meaningful connections, and help our organization thrive.
Coffee or tea?
Fancy coffee… preferably before any 8:00 a.m. meeting.
Favorite ice cream flavor?
Mint chocolate chip. I know it’s a flavor that tends to divide a room, but I’m firmly on Team Mint.
One word your friends would use to describe you?
Loyal.
Anything else you’d like to share with our community as we welcome you to the CAPCSD Board?
I’m honored to serve on the CAPCSD Board and look forward to connecting with members throughout the year. If there’s one thing I hope to help cultivate, it’s a community where everyone feels welcomed, heard, and encouraged to contribute. Our greatest strength is our members, and I’m excited to help create opportunities for all of us to learn from one another and move the profession forward together.