Melissa A. Alvare, Ph.D.

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.