As a passionate advocate for educational equity, Melissa Melgar has worked with the federal TRIO programs for over 20 years, drawing from her own transformative experiences as a TRIO alum and first-generation college student. She is a proud TRIO alumna of the MSU Mankato Educational Talent Search, Century College Upward Bound Math and Science, St. Olaf College TRIO Student Support Services, and UMN TRIO McNair programs. This personal connection fuels her ongoing dedication to TRIO’s mission of eliminating barriers for students from limited-income, first-generation, and underrepresented backgrounds in higher education.  

Melissa’s commitment to equity and inclusion began during her undergraduate years at St. Olaf College, where she was a leader, tutor, and mentor for the St. Olaf TRIO Educational Talent Search and Student Support Services programs. After earning her B.A. in Art Education from St. Olaf, she pursued a Master’s in Education from Concordia University in St. Paul, MN.

Her professional journey at St. Olaf began in 2005 as an Advisor with the TRIO Educational Talent Search program. In 2007, she played a key role in launching the federal TRIO McNair grant at St. Olaf and has served as the Associate Director for 17 years. In this role, she has empowered students on their journey to graduate school, providing the tools and guidance necessary to succeed in higher education and beyond. Ms. Melgar began her role as the TRIO McNair Director in January 2025.

A midwest Educational Opportunity Association (EOA) Emerging Leader, Melissa has served on the boards of both the EOA and Minnesota TRIO Association and is a member of the McNair Association of Professionals. She has held various leadership roles, including chairing committees focused on Technology, Scholarships, and Alumni Relations.Throughout her career, Ms. Melgar remains committed to advancing educational equity and supporting first-generation and limited-income students as they navigate the challenges of higher education.