Melissa
Alvaré, Ph.D., is a Lecturer in the Department of Political Science and
Sociology at Monmouth University. Broadly, her research focuses on social
inequalities and initiatives to redress them. Most recently, she conducted
research on racial inequities within schools and a teacher preparation program
designed to prepare culturally responsive educators. Dr. Alvaré’s sociological
work also focuses on gentrification, environmental justice, and collective
action. Her research on gentrification explores how racial dynamics facilitate
inequitable redevelopment and how community activists challenge exclusionary
practices that subordinate long-time residents. She has also facilitated
community-engaged research in Delaware neighborhoods that have long faced environmental
racism.

Beyond
her research, Dr. Alvaré is passionate about teaching sociology and working
with students as the point person for the Department’s Applied Research and
Community Organizing concentration in Sociology.