Melissa Guillen

Melissa Guillen brings her experience in community-based research, youth development, and organizational leadership to her role as 4-H Youth Development Advisor for UC Agriculture and Natural Resources. She will focus on advancing Positive Youth Development (PYD) and expanding college and career readiness pathways for young people across San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties. In this role, Melissa combines applied research with hands-on programming to strengthen youth leadership, workforce preparation, and civic engagement.

Prior to her current appointment, Melissa served as Academic Coordinator for CalFresh Healthy Living, UCCE, where she oversaw nutrition education and policy, systems, and environmental change strategies across three counties. She also served as Chief Operating Officer at Backyard Bowls, leading strategic growth, operations, and team development, and as Nutrition and Children’s Programs Manager at the San Luis Obispo Food Bank, where she focused on food literacy, food security initiatives, and public health advocacy.

In addition to her professional roles, Melissa is deeply engaged in her community. She currently serves as Board Chair for Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara, was a Big Sister with Big Brothers Big Sisters of SLO County, and has also been a foster parent and international exchange student host, opening her home and heart to young people from diverse backgrounds.

Melissa holds a master's degree in Nutrition from Meredith College and a bachelor's degree in animal science and nutrition from North Carolina State University. She is passionate about building collaborative, cross-sector partnerships that create meaningful opportunities for youth to thrive in school, work, and life.