Margie Diana Shackelford-Oliver, principal of MDO Services and MDO Photography and project and office manager at Dolan Realty Advisors LLC, has built a diverse and accomplished career across multiple industries. She holds a Master of Arts in secondary education from Lindenwood University, a Master of Business Administration in management, a Bachelor of Business Administration, and an associate of applied science in electronics engineering technology from ITT Technical Institute. Additionally, she earned a diploma in electrical engineering from O’Fallon Technical High School, laying the foundation for her career in education and technology.
Ms. Shackelford-Oliver has successfully managed her business, MDO Services, since 2002, offering consulting, photography, and financial services. Her photography business emerged when family and friends recognized her talent and encouraged her to pursue it professionally. Word of mouth has become her primary promotional tool, as her clients have consistently praised her for the quality and creativity of her work. She specializes in capturing weddings, parties, corporate events, and nonprofit gatherings, always striving to exceed client expectations with her keen eye for detail and storytelling through visuals.
In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, Ms. Shackelford-Oliver plays a pivotal role at Dolan Realty Advisors LLC. As the project and office manager, she oversees cellular site acquisition and tower development services, supporting the construction of communication towers across the Midwest. Her work demands strong management skills, as well as the ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines concurrently. Her exceptional organizational abilities and customer service expertise have allowed her to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Her career journey also includes working as a teacher for the Hazelwood School District and a mortgage specialist at Wells Fargo, where she gained extensive experience in financial consulting. Her background in business analysis and mortgage services allowed her to seamlessly transition into the consulting side of MDO Services, advising clients on various financial matters.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Ms. Shackelford-Oliver is deeply involved in her community. She currently serves as a board member for Trailnet, an organization that advocates for cycling in St. Louis, and co-chairs the Hazelwood Parks and Recreation Division. A lifelong cycling enthusiast, she is an active member of several cycling clubs, including the Regulators Cycling Club and Black Girls Do Bike Inc. Her devotion to promoting healthy lifestyles and supporting community development extends to her involvement with organizations such as Crossroads College Preparatory School and Blossom Wood Day School.
Ms. Shackelford-Oliver’s talents and leadership have garnered recognition, including being the first African American woman featured on the front page of “Women ‘n’ Wheels” magazine in 1994, highlighting her passion for motorcycles. In 2006, she received the Hatchling Award from the Professional Organization of Women in St. Louis for her achievements in business and community service.
Over the next five years, Ms. Shackelford-Oliver plans to support her son’s journey into higher education and focus more on giving back to her community. She will spend time mentoring, volunteering, and providing leadership training to help others achieve their personal and professional goals. Her guiding principles, which include hope, trust, and faith, serve as the foundation for her life and work, and she is committed to making a positive impact on those around her.
