Melissa Lee (Macias) Finley

Class of 1979

Melissa Macias Finley exemplifies the values and spirit of the Perry High School Alumni Honor Roll. Her dynamic personality, unwavering work ethic, and competitive drive are evident in every aspect of her life. Melissa distinguished herself at the University of Oklahoma as a gymnast, cheerleader, and the first graduate of the university’s master’s program in sports administration.

At PHS, Melissa was an all-sports athlete, playing basketball, softball, and tennis, track, along with being a cheerleader. At the University of Oklahoma, she won a
spot as cheerleader and then was recruited by the gymnastics coach to join the team.

After her OU graduation, she used her business skills to revitalize a struggling convenience store that her father purchased, transforming it into a thriving enterprise. In doing so, she made good use of the experience she had gained working at her parents’ business, Kumback Lunch, when she was growing up.

In Perry, she played a key role in the growth of the Noble County Family YMCA through fitness programming and community engagement.

A dedicated athlete, she has competed in marathons and triathlons at an elite level, finishing among the top 100 in the Boston Marathon.

As a coach, Melissa led Cushing Junior High’s cheerleading team to national titles and positively influenced young athletes through her program, Cowboy Kids Tumbling and Cheer. Melissa also coached the Perry High School cheerleading squad and Perry Junior High School cheerleading squad for several years. During her tenure coaching the high school team, she led them to third place at the State Championship cheerleading competition in addition to an Academic State Championship title.

In addition to coaching, Melissa also established herself as a local business owner. Her entrepreneurial vision and leadership turned Sooners Corner into a million-dollar business.

A devoted wife to Brad for 38 years and proud mother to Taylor, a graduate of the Georgetown University MBA program and a New York business professional,
Melissa is known for her ability to make excellence appear effortless and achievable.

She is grateful for Perry’s strong support of its schools, sports, and its many youth and community organizations.