Melanie stands on the shoulders of many strong Black women who have paved the way and continue to support her biggest dreams. As a product of a family of strong Black women, Melanie Harris strives to follow their advice that no dream is ever too big. Raised by a single mother in Charlotte, North Carolina by way of Atlanta, Georgia, Melanie accredits much of her success, dedication and drive to seeing her mother make great sacrifices to provide the best life possible. As an only child, Melanie considers her closest friends as part of the family. She enjoys spending time with them, traveling, pretending to be a food blogger, and spoiling Roxy Rose (her  5-pound maltipoo who thinks she’s a cat). Melanie wholeheartedly believes that she is her ancestors wildest dreams and this rings true in her personal, academic, and professional goals and accomplishments. ​

Melanie’s involvement in new student orientation, campus activities, academic support, and leadership activities ignited and have maintained her passion for working in higher education. She credits her mentors with the push to obtain her Masters and currently through her PhD program. Melanie’s goal is to not simply have “a seat at the table” but instead tear down the table and rebuild with those who are committed to bringing justice and healing to those who have often been silenced in a world never designed for them to be successful.