Melisa Chioma Emeghebo Rousseau, a resident of Huntington, is currently serving as an Assistant Professor of English. With a strong academic background, Melisa holds three Advanced-Level (A-Levels) diplomas in History, Classical Civilization, and English Literature from Oxford & Cambridge Universities (Oxbridge). She obtained her Bachelor of Arts in English, with a minor in Black Studies, from Boston College. Furthering her education, Melisa achieved dual degrees, a Master of Science in English Education and a Master of Arts in English, from Long Island University, CW Post. Additionally, she holds a Master of Arts degree in Sociology from The New School.

Passionate about social justice, civics, and understanding the historical context of racially motivated acts, Melisa has taught in both predominantly Black and Latino public high schools in Manhattan, as well as predominantly White private middle and high schools on the Upper East Side. She has held positions as a tenure track and adjunct faculty member in various educational institutions, including SUNY, CUNY, and community colleges. Currently, Melisa’s academic interests revolve around the conceptual, theoretical, and historical critical analyses of intersectional racial stratification in the towns of Babylon, Huntington, and Oyster Bay.

Melisa actively contributes to various organizations and boards. She serves on the board of Preservation Long Island and is a member of their education committee. Melisa also holds a position on the board of directors for the Huntington African American Museum. Additionally, she serves as a Town of Huntington trustee, working closely with the African American Historical Designation Council. Melisa’s dedication to community involvement extends to her partnership with the Energeia Academy for Regional Stewardship and her graduation from the Huntington Leadership Foundation. Moreover, she holds the esteemed title of Huntington Trustee, having completed the Leadership Huntington program. Melisa’s commitment to history is further reflected in her board membership with the Huntington Historical Society, while her passion for social justice is demonstrated through her involvement with the Center for Social Justice and Human Understanding at Suffolk County Community College.

Recognized for her academic achievements, Melisa was selected as one of 35 scholars to participate in the prestigious American Psychological Association (APA) “Advanced Training Institute: Research Methods with Diverse Racial and Ethnic Groups” in June 2018.

As a member of esteemed organizations, Melisa is affiliated with The Links, Incorporated, the Alpha Kappa Alpha Society, and Jack and Jill of America. Through her membership in these organizations, she actively contributes to their missions and works towards their shared goals.

Melisa Rousseau is a driven academic, an advocate for social justice, and a dedicated community leader. Her diverse educational background, extensive involvement in various organizations, and commitment to intersectional racial analyses demonstrate her passion and determination to make a positive impact.

Melisa Rousseau has been married to her husband Reginald for 24 years. They live in Huntington with their two children Xavier and Olivia and their two cats Nubia and Serenity.

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