“I gave a speech last month on how important it is to have people who care for their fellow teammates, who care for their customers, and who care for their communities. I should have just brought Machelle. She does all three and does them well in addition to having an insatiable smile.”
— Tom Black, Founding Partner (Retired)
“Machelle. When I think of her, I think of a lady with an engaging voice and a million-dollar smile. The epitome of a classic Marketing Representative. I don’t think of her in terms of one episode, rather, one who is an amalgamation of countless interactions, whether dinners where we entertained clients or meetings in the course of prospective or existing clientele. There will be a successor who will assume her position, made all the easier because Machelle came beforehand to set the table.”
— Calvin Mann, Founding Partner (Retired)
“I first met Machelle when she worked for a large subprime wholesale lender several years before Black, Mann & Graham was founded.
“Although it would be a few years before I was able to hire Machelle to assist me with marketing our firm’s services, she had an amazing positive energy, integrity beyond reproach, and her most endearing quality: always giving of herself in the service of others. In sum, she made a great impression on me and everyone she has ever met.
“In 2003, we hired Machelle, and the first account she secured as the Dallas Marketing Director was Sebring Capital’s mortgage business. Being a successful marketing service provider in the mortgage industry involves attending many national, state, and local conventions, meetings, dinners, and other social events. I recall the first convention that we attended together was in Las Vegas, and after attending an industry gathering, she told me she had arranged a meeting with a potential client that led to our securing all their mortgage loan documentation business.”
— Greg Graham, Founding Partner (Retired)
“Machelle approaches every challenge with optimism, and that outlook has truly shaped our firm’s approach to business development. Patience, persistence, and genuine care are essential to being an exceptional Client Relations Specialist—and Machelle embodies each of these qualities with ease.
“Her compassion and cheerful spirit have made her a joy to work with and a constant source of encouragement to those around her. She cares deeply about our firm and our people, and it shows in everything she does.
“Machelle—thank you for your countless contributions and for the legacy of kindness, professionalism, and excellence you leave with us. You will be deeply missed, and we can’t wait to hear about the new adventures ahead of you.”
— Ryan Black, Partner
“For 23 years, Machelle has been an integral part of this Firm. In her role as marketing and business development executive, she didn’t just support the Firm—she helped shape it into what it is today. Many of the opportunities, relationships, and successes we enjoy today carry Machelle’s fingerprints, and her legacy will live on for years to come. I’ve only been with the Firm long enough to witness a small part of Machelle’s legacy, but I couldn’t be more grateful to have had the opportunity. She’s set a high standard for what it means to represent BM&G, setting the example for her successors but also paving the way for their future success. That’s a legacy not everyone leaves behind.”
— Steven Kubik, Partner
“When I think of my coworker Machelle Blaesing, I think of the warmest heart, the kindest spirit, and someone who always chooses to do the right thing. Machelle is not only a colleague, but a friend I’ve grown to call a sister. This remarkable woman has a way of lifting up everyone around her.
“On the days when I felt discouraged, heard too many “no’s,” needed guidance, or simply needed a good laugh, she is my first call. Her positivity is genuine, her advice thoughtful, and her support unwavering. When my now-husband and I first started dating, Machelle was the very first person I introduced him to — that’s how much I value her insight and opinion.
“We have shared so many seasons of life together: children graduating, life’s unexpected challenges, vacations, marriage, professional successes, and now retirement. Through it all, she has been a constant source of strength and encouragement.
“When I think of the very best representation of our firm, Machelle is at the top of my list. I will forever be grateful for everything she has taught me, for the countless laughs, and for the friendship she so generously and lovingly gave.
“Retirement is well deserved — but you will always leave a lasting mark on all of us. 💛 “
— Rachelle Fonseca, Client Relations Specialist
Thank you, Machelle, for your loyalty, leadership, and the lasting impact you’ve made on all of us. Congratulations on a well-earned retirement!