Kathleen T. Mellano

Kathleen T. Mellano serves as Assistant Professor of Exercise Science and Director of the Sport and Exercise Psychology online master's degree at Springfield College within the School of Physical Education, Performance and Sport Leadership and Department of Exercise Science.

Her academic credentials include:

• Doctor of Philosophy, Michigan State University (2019)
• Master of Science, Miami University (2015)
• Bachelor of Science, Texas Christian University (2012)

Dr. Mellano's research examines social and motivational dynamics in athletic contexts, specifically investigating how teammate relationships and group constructs shape youth athlete experiences. Her work emphasizes psychosocial factors across developmental stages, with particular focus on burnout prevention, gender-specific challenges, and interpersonal dynamics between athletes, coaches, and support personnel. The research integrates theoretical frameworks from sport psychology and social psychology to address practical applications in youth development programs.

As an educator, she teaches Sport Psychology Measurement, Applied Sport Psychology, Capstone courses, and supervises internship experiences in the graduate program. Dr. Mellano maintains an active consulting practice working with athletes, teams, coaches, and parents across competitive levels from youth to elite. She holds Certified Mental Performance Consultant® status and serves on the Association for Applied Sport Psychology's Master's Thesis Award Committee, while also possessing specialized Certification for Online Teaching and Learning.