Mellon headshot

Emerson Fellow

Matthew Mellon

17th Class, 2010-2011

Originally from Cincinnati, Matthew graduated from Xavier University in May 2009 with a degree in history and minors in economics, environmental studies and peace studies. He directed the University Summer Service Program, worked with Students for Economic Justice, and taught writing and mathematics at a job skills training program. Matthew has studied economic policy in Nicaragua and led a cultural immersion trip to Ukraine. After graduating, he worked as a Lutheran Volunteer Corps member at the D.C. Employment Justice Center, where he advocated for workers' rights and language access in the District.

Field placement: Arizona Food Bank Network

Phoenix, Arizona

Matthew researched barriers that Hispanic/Latino residents in Maricopa County face to accessing services at emergency food services. He conducted community based research and analyzed demographic and poverty data on a sub-county level in order to develop priorities for effective outreach in underserved Latino communities. Matthew also delivered recommendations for addressing barriers to emergency food services in Latino communities.

Policy placement: UnidosUS

Washington, D.C.

Matthew worked with NCLR’s Health Policy Project to maximize access to quality health coverage and care in Hispanic/Latino communities. He conducted outreach with NCLR’s Affiliate network and analyzed policy issues related to the implementation of the new Affordable Care Act in Latino communities.

Publications