Dalton Mellon, Age 33
Portfolio Manager, David Vaughan Investments
Mellon helps make investment decisions for DVI client portfolios and works with clients to help meet their financial goals.
“In his time at DVI, Dalton showed his commitment to his profession by earning the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. He also has completed the Community Leadership School from the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce,” said his nominator. Meanwhile, “Dalton has showed leadership by starting the DVI Corporate Challenge, an event held annually to raise money for The South Side Mission. Dalton has run the Corporate Challenge each year since its inception in 2018.
“He has also spent much time volunteering with the Peoria Friendship House, where he currently serves as vice president of the Board of Directors.” Beyond that, Mellon volunteers at Midwest Food Bank.
Childhood ambition: “I always thought I would be a linebacker for the Chicago Bears or a Navy Seal. Clearly, I took a sharp turn and landed on finance and portfolio management.”
Advice to 20-year-old self: “Don’t be afraid to take more risks. This may sound odd to someone whose day job is to manage risk, but there is a world of opportunity and experiences out there that shouldn’t be overlooked.”
Bucket list priority: “To play in the World Series of Poker Main Event.”
Best advice ever: “Celebrate your wins. Life moves too fast to not pause and enjoy the special moments.”
Motivating social issue: “Equity in education.”
Book recommendation: “Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin.”
Leadership definition: “A great leader is someone who will place others before themselves,” while displaying “the highest integrity, which I’ve always defined as doing the right thing when no one’s looking.”
Local inspiration: “The staff at Peoria Friendship House and South Side Mission. My time with these organizations has taught me to lead through servanthood and compassion.”
Peoria needs: “I grew up in Bloomington, but Peoria has been my home the last 10 years. I am still in awe at the level of community support and passion throughout the Peoria area. I would love to build off this support to continue development on the riverfront, bring in larger attractions and amenities, and show the central Illinois area that Peoria is and will continue to be the destination of choice for individuals and companies alike.”
