Melissa Delgado

Melissa Delgado, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor and Graduate Director in the Department of Human Development and Family Science at the University of Arizona’s Norton School of Human Ecology. Her research focuses on Latinx adolescent development, particularly examining mechanisms to reduce racial/ethnic inequality and promote positive outcomes among Mexican-origin youth. Key areas include academic identity, sociocultural stressors, and resilience in family, school, and peer contexts. Dr. Delgado employs mixed methods and advanced statistical techniques to analyze longitudinal data.

Current projects include The Voices Project (examining school climate for Latin American adolescents) and The ALCANCE Project (studying academic identity’s role in academic success). She is also involved in Project Student Success, exploring ecological assets and academic achievement among Latinx youth. Her work intersects with resilience in marginalized populations, innovative research methods, and family dynamics.

Dr. Delgado is affiliated with the Norton School of Human Ecology and collaborates across divisions at the University of Arizona. She currently accepts new graduate students and emphasizes strengths-based approaches in her research and mentorship.