Melissa M. Stephens currently serves as the Associate Vice President for Enrollment and Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives at Western Connecticut State University. With more than 31 years of progressive experience in higher education, she has held a wide range of leadership roles in enrollment management and financial aid, including serving for 10 years as Director of Financial Aid after advancing through every position within the office. Melissa's work is deeply rooted in data-informed decision making, leveraging emerging technologies, enrollment analytics, and strategic planning tools to drive institutional strategy, operational effectiveness, student access, and positive enrollment outcomes.