In this episode of ILLUMENATE, Chris sits down with Dr. Mel Fenner, an HBCU leader, technologist, and community builder whose journey from small-town Mississippi to the heights of higher education leadership is rooted in purpose, authenticity, and service. With over 20 years of experience in IT and a deep belief in mentoring and legacy-building, Mel brings a heartfelt and thoughtful perspective.
Mel shares how his drive stems from seeing others grow—whether his own children, younger colleagues, or student employees. He reflects on his early exposure to science and technology, nurtured by supportive parents and rare but transformative opportunities. His career path has taken him from help desk technician to Deputy CIO, including impactful roles at institutions in Mississippi, Florida, North Carolina, and the University of Illinois. Each move required risk, courage, and a strong sense of curiosity. Now at Lincoln University—the first degree-granting HBCU—he brings his wealth of experience to help uplift a historically significant institution.
A key theme of this conversation is Mel’s personal deconstruction and growth, especially in embracing his full, authentic self. For years, he felt compelled to wear a professional mask, shaped by internalized pressure and external expectations. But in recent years, particularly during his time at Illinois, Mel found the confidence to lead with his true voice. He credits this shift to both his spiritual growth and his willingness to invest in personal development through reading, reflection, and challenges like 75 Hard.
Mel also opens up about the role of community in his life, from his close bond with his sister to the lifelong brotherhood found through Kappa Alpha Psi. He speaks on the importance of male friendships as spaces of accountability and vulnerability, and how he helps make the world a better place by solving problems before they escalate. Ultimately, Mel’s story is one of risk embraced, identity reclaimed, and purpose lived out loud. His life is a testament to the power of intentionality and legacy—and the joy of raising others up along the way.
ILLUMENATE is a podcast that tells the stories of men with good hearts, open minds, and a desire to make the world better for everyone — not just them and theirs. More info: https://illumenate.substack.com/about
