About

Dr. Melanie Escue is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP). She earned her B.A. in Psychology (2013) and M.S. in Criminal Justice (2014) from the University of Central Florida. In 2023, she earned her Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of South Florida. Dr. Escue teaches both sociology and criminal justice courses including social statistics, sociology of mental disorders, juvenile justice, sociology of drug use, social problems, and introduction to sociology. A mixed-methods scholar, Melanie's current research interests include immigration, health, and rural studies. Her work has been published in a number of peer-reviewed journals including American Behavioral Scientist, Hispanic Journal of Behavioral Sciences, Latino Studies, and Journal of Cultural Geography.

Over the past few years, she has worked on nationally funded projects exploring the emotional well-being and incorporation experiences of im(migrants) in the United States and, most recently, serves as co-PI on a North Carolina Collaboratory grant-funded project examining the influence of the built-environment and neighborhood characteristics on the health of residents living in urban and rural North Carolina. Moreover, she truly believes in the importance of mentoring undergraduate student scholars. Her students have presented their work at university, state, and regional conferences, as well as co-authored papers. Dr. Escue welcomes aspiring scholars - especially those interested in immigration, health and well-being, and rural studies – to connect with her for collaboration opportunities.

Dr. Escue is fiercely passionate about utilizing her professional experience to serve the university and invest in community well-being. She is the faculty advisor for the Latin Student Union, African Students Organization, and the Sociology Club. Additionally, she serves as the faculty fellow for the Lee Barnes campus debate program at UNCP and is on the board of directors for the NC Farmworkers Organization. Dr. Escue finds great joy in volunteering at local community events, frequently joined by her supportive husband and their two children.