Melissa Mahfouz, American University, Washington DC

Melissa Mahfouz, a junior in the School of International Service (SIS), has been an engaged campus leader at American University, immersing herself in addressing social justice issues affecting the community.  For two years, Melissa has served as Co-Chair of the Community of Learners Advancing in Spanish and English (CLASE), a program dedicated to a language and cultural exchange between students and the janitorial and cafeteria staff of the university, in efforts to reduce the communication barrier between these populations.  Under Melissa’s leadership, the program has expanded from direct service to broader skills and advocacy around employment, leadership development, and education.