Mellissa Jessen-Hiser has been appointed interim director for the Jan and Bud Richter Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning, beginning on July 21. She brings a diverse educational background and a dedication to education, community, and the vibrant culture of the Central Valley to this critical role.

Jessen-Hiser is a dedicated educator and practitioner with more than 17 years of experience in higher education and community engagement. She most recently served as the Director of Fresno State College Corps, where she led the implementation of the program which engages students in intensive and meaningful service experiences addressing issues related to climate action, education, and food insecurity. Previously, she served as assistant director for the Richter Center, where she pioneered groundbreaking student-leadership programs.

Jessen-Hiser is a proud first-generation college graduate and two-time Fresno State alum, with a B.A. in English and an MFA in Creative Writing. She also holds an M.A. in International Human Rights from the University of Denver.

Jessen-Hiser will lead the Richter Center through the fall semester as the campus conducts a national search for a new permanent director. She takes over from current director Chris Fiorentino, who retires in August after a distinguished career that has helped to elevate Fresno State as a national and international leader in service learning and community engagement.