Mestenhauser Student Award

Melat Weldeselasie is a senior at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, majoring in Biology and Anthropology. Melat has demonstrated a high level of engagement as a student leader at the University of Minnesota, dedicating herself to programs and initiatives that foster community and promoting opportunities for cross-cultural dialogue and exchange. Melat became involved in the leadership group of the Students Crossing Borders Living Learning Community, the Leaders Crossing Borders, in addition to working as a Community Advisor for the program. In this role, she was active in building community and advocating for resources and support for her fellow students. Melat also served as the president and adviser of the Ethiopian Student Association, where she organized events and built connections across the University of Minnesota and with the broader Twin Cities community, including with alumni of the University of Minnesota. Following graduation, Melat will serve as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Guatemala, where she will work with local community members to increase quality food access in educational settings.