As the Senior Director of Initiative Development at Arizona State University's Learning Enterprise, Melissa (Mel) Huapaya leads educational innovation growth that benefit learners at all life stages. Her pivotal role in strategically expanding edtech initiatives champions a more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable model of higher education. With a profound expertise in navigating the intricate realms of federal and philanthropic funding, Mel excels in turning visionary ideas into scalable, significant projects.
Her endeavors are deeply rooted in her personal experience as a first-generation college graduate, fueling her dedication to dismantle educational barriers for underserved communities. The heart of Mel's approach is a deep commitment to creating opportunities for success and economic advancement through education, reflecting ASU's mission to drive societal change. Her career is marked by impactful contributions in strategic development and partnership cultivation, highlighting Mel’s firm belief in the transformative power of education. She holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Babson College and a Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Journalism from San Diego State University.