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Bucerius Staff Interview: Melis Tusiray

Melis Tusiray started with the American Friends of Bucerius as a Senior Program Manager late last year. In addition to managing the global governance activities, Melis handles AFB’s public affairs and supports the day-to-day office activities.

What one aspect of the Bucerius experience is the most important for you?
I think the transnational – and really, global – aspects of our work are so important. With global migration, communication, and border-crossing issues like climate change and global governance, a successful network has to be international. Plus it’s fun!

What do you value most in the Bucerius family?
The diversity and interdisciplinary approach present in all of our activities: One of the biggest points I kept hearing when Elinor Ostrom won the Nobel Prize in Economics in 2009 was how unique it was that, one, she was the first woman to win that prize, and two, that her research had been successful as a result of its interdisciplinary nature. As excited as I was by Ostrom’s nomination, I also found it sad that her gender or categorization as an “interdisciplinary scholar” was so surprising to the rest of the world. When we move beyond our self-constructed boundaries and integrate other people, perspectives, and methods, we are so much more successful overall – as individuals, as societies, and as a global community. I think the American Friends of Bucerius really recognizes and embraces those virtues.

What should every American know about Bucerius?
Europe and the U.S. share so many common goals and values that the transatlantic partnership is one of the most important factors for success on both sides of the Atlantic. The Bucerius network is all about exchange and knowledge-sharing on that level, creating opportunities for us to learn from each other.

What can Bucerius learn from the U.S.?
I’ve found that Americans really embrace the entrepreneurial spirit and always encourage people to try new things and change what the world perceives as established rules. This willingness to take risks and question norms is so inspiring.

What is your biggest extravagance?
There’s this bakery across the street that has awesome lemon tarts; I’d have one at every meal if I could. I also like a good hefeweizen. There’s nothing like sitting in the garden with a cold German beer – okay, except maybe those lemon tarts.

What is your current state of mind?
Energetic – Moving back to the U.S. after a year in Germany, joining the Bucerius network, and meeting new people has been very fun and exciting. I appreciate the warm reception I’ve received here, and I’m looking forward to what comes next!

What German proverb do you like most?
Anfangen ist leicht, beharren eine Kunst (to begin is easy, to persist is an art).