When University College of the North alum Melanie Halcrowe received the news of her Professional Aboriginal Economic Developer (PAED) designation, she did something she rarely does — she paused to celebrate.
“I’m not someone who usually celebrates my own achievements,” she admitted. “But this one felt different. It made me reflect on how much I’ve learned and how far I’ve come.”
Melanie is a proud member of the Norway House Cree Nation and a long-time community leader. Earning the PAED designation was not just a personal milestone; it was a moment of reflection, gratitude, and connection.
The Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers awards The PAED designation. It represents the highest level of professional recognition in Indigenous economic development.
“It’s the gold standard,” Melanie explained. “It recognizes not just education and experience, but also ethics and leadership rooted in community and culture. It’s about supporting Indigenous communities in sustainable, culturally grounded ways.”
Earning this designation requires years of study, practical experience, and peer-reviewed validation. Melanie says it is more than just a credential. It’s a way to honour the people and places that have shaped her.
Melanie’s entry into economic development was unplanned.
“I wanted to enroll in Business Administration at University College of the North, but the program was full,” she recalled. “A counselor suggested the Community Economic Development (CED) program instead. I thought I might transfer later, but once I started, something just clicked.”
What she discovered in CED was more than just business; it was about community.
“It was about creating pathways for our people to thrive,” she said. “Economic development is meaningful work. It’s heart work.”
As a Northern Swampy Cree woman, Melanie views her success as part of a larger collective story.
“Our community has made significant strides in economic development in recent years,” she shared. “Playing a role in that momentum—whether through business and entrepreneurship programming, supporting the new Business Centre and Food Court, or contributing to larger initiatives—is deeply meaningful to me.”
She emphasizes that her achievements are not hers alone.
“I carry my community with me in everything I do. UCN grounded me academically, culturally, and personally,” she reflected. “The CED program helped me understand Indigenous governance, community planning, and entrepreneurship through an Indigenous lens. It shaped the kind of professional I wanted to become.”
Melanie says among her most cherished memories are her instructors: Borys Kruk, Mark Matiasek, and Preston King.
“They supported me through moments of doubt and always encouraged me forward,” she said.
Years later, her journey came full circle. “When I received my PAED in Quebec City, I unexpectedly ran into both Mark and Preston. It was such a meaningful reunion — a reminder of where it all began and how far we’ve come.”
Melanie understands the challenges students face because she’s experienced them herself.
“Feeling overwhelmed doesn’t mean you’re not capable,” she said. “It means you’re human. Take things one day at a time. Reach out for help when you need it. Give yourself grace when things feel difficult. And don’t worry if your path looks different — sometimes those detours shape you the most.”
Most importantly, she adds, “Remember that you belong here. Even on the days you doubt yourself, keep going. You’re building something your future self will be proud of.”
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