Golden Paw Winner for August 2024

DSA News
December 18, 2024

The Dean of Students office's Care Manager, Melissa Meléndez, received the Golden Paw Employee of the Month award for August 2024. This award is a testament to Melissa Meléndez’s exceptional commitment to student well-being, tireless advocacy, and unmatched compassion in the role.

In the capacity as Care Manager, Melissa is a lifeline for students facing mental health challenges, connecting them with critical resources and offering a compassionate, supportive presence during times of need. The work consistently supports students navigating personal and emotional challenges, making a transformative impact on their lives, and fostering a culture of care and support on campus.

The past semester posed unique challenges as Melissa stepped into expanded responsibilities, filling the gap left by the absence of an Assistant Dean for Student Outreach and Support (SOS). During this period, Melissa managed a record-breaking caseload, providing timely, empathetic support to a growing number of students in crisis. The dedication went above and beyond as Melissa prioritized student needs and ensured that every individual received the help and attention they deserved.

The proactive approach and enduring commitment of Melissa have left a lasting mark on the UH community. Students, faculty, and staff have all benefited from the initiative, advocacy, and resilience shown. By modelling compassion and promoting mental health awareness, Melissa has been instrumental in shaping a supportive environment at UH, where students feel valued, heard, and empowered.

Congratulations again to Melissa Meléndez on being awarded the Division of Student Affairs August 2024 Golden Paw Employee of the Month.

Written By Dhivyadharshini Selvaraj – Marketing and Communications Coordinator- Student Affairs