Welcome to our new KU TRIO STEM Project Coordinator

It is our pleasure to announce that Melissa Peterson will transition to the role of TRIO STEM Project Coordinator.

For the past three years, Melissa has coordinated the tutoring program at KU TRIO SES & STEM and is excited to share her knowledge and skills to support TRIO STEM and healthcare students at KU. She says, “Diversifying STEM is a passion for many and I want to help aid our students in excelling in STEM while continuing on with their professional and educational careers.”

Melissa holds a Master Degree in Public Health from the KU School of Medicine and is currently a doctoral candidate in the KU Educational and Leadership Program in Higher Education. In addition to her role with TRIO, Melissa has served as the Haskell Exchange Program Specialist and as the Multicultural Community Coordinator with KU Diversity and Equity.

“As a first-generation college student, who came from a low-income family on the Navajo reservation, my identities inspire my passion for a more equitable KU. I was able to use my resources and support to succeed and I would like to be that same resource and support for our students and for my colleagues.”

Melissa has also held several leadership roles with Haskell Indian Nations University, including Head Volleyball Coach, an educator with the Haskell Health Center and Diabetes Education in Tribal Schools Grant, and an administrator with the Haskell Health Center.

Please join us in congratulating Melissa!