Melissa Glaser to serve as director of TRIO Educational Supportive Services and TRIO Student Support Services
The Office of Student Belonging at Kansas State University has named Melissa Glaser as director of TRIO Educational Supportive Services and Student Support Services. Her leadership will span the Manhattan and Salina campuses, fostering holistic academic and well-being support for hundreds of students annually.
Glaser brings a wealth of experience supporting student success and a deep commitment to K-State. Glasser earned bachelor's degrees in elementary education and English, followed by a master’s degree in English from K-State. Her strong academic foundation, combined with extensive professional experience, makes her a tremendous asset to the department.
“We are excited to welcome someone whose professional expertise, leadership experience and passion for student success align so closely with our mission,” said Mirta Chavez, assistant vice president for student belonging. “I am confident Melissa will make significant contributions to our students, colleagues and university community.”
Since 2005, Glaser has worked with students in a variety of roles, including serving as a TRIO ESS success coach and teaching English writing and literature courses, college student success courses, K-State First CAT Communities, and College of Arts and Sciences orientation courses. Her dedication to student development is evident through years of teaching, mentoring, coaching and supporting students both inside and outside the classroom.
“I am excited to serve as the director of TRIO ESS Manhattan and TRIO SSS Salina. Empowering and supporting students has been the driving force throughout my career, and I am honored to continue the important work our teams have done for decades,” Glaser said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to deepen partnerships and strengthen collaborative efforts across campus so that together we can help K-State students reach their goals even more intentionally, strategically and holistically.”
In addition to her teaching and coaching experience, Glaser has demonstrated exceptional leadership through training and supervising student employees in the PILOTS Program and the Office of Recruitment and Admissions Service Team. She has contributed to important campus initiatives through involvement with the Teaching and Learning Center, Academic Advisor Forum and the Health-Promoting University initiative. Her creation and leadership of a professional development program for the Office of Recruitment and Admissions further highlights their commitment to fostering growth and excellence in others.
Beyond the university, Glaser is actively engaged in the community, volunteering as a Court Appointed Special Advocate with the Sunflower Children's Collective, serving and advocating for children and families in need.
— Submitted by Morgan Greene