Scholars of Color- Melissa Villodas
What is Scholars of Color?
It is a platform in which scholars of color are purposefully celebrated. It’s a space where scholars of color are showcased front and center. It is a digital space where we feel empowered and resilient. Let us get to know each other. Let us cheer each other on AND show the world what we have to offer.
Let us now welcome Melissa Villodas to the Scholars of Color space!
Name: Melissa Villodas
Location: Fairfax, VA
Gender Pronouns: She/Her
What's your current occupation? (i.e. Student, Scientist, Coach, In transition, etc.): Licensed Social Worker and Assistant Professor
Without positions or titles, how would you describe yourself?: I would describe myself as a kind and optimistic individual committed to offering healing and restorative justice in every space I encounter.
What are you passionate about?: I am passionate about understanding the power of connection and healthy relationships on mental health, especially among marginalized people living in distressed neighborhoods.
What does the representation of Scholars of Color mean to you?: To me, scholars of color represents a space that offers a visual representation of the true diversity in our world and a vision of what our respective fields can soon reflect more consistently.
If people are interested in getting connected to you, how can they?: People who are interested in getting connected to me can find me on Instagram: @mel__vee, Twitter: @mel_villodas, or email: mvilloda@gmu.edu
Anything else you would like us to know?: I have been dancing to Afro-Latin music on performance teams since 2016 and have a special affinity for salsa dancing. My former dance partner and I created a podcast highlighting the Black roots of Afro-Latin dances from an anti-racist perspective and have produced almost 50 episodes! Find us on IG: @mixedtape.podcast
Thank you Melissa for sharing space with us!
Stay tuned everyone for more Scholars of Color profiles. Interested in being showcased yourself? Please email the Scholars of Color team at scholarsofcolor@reclaimingyourhappiness.com and we will get back to you shortly.
