Onica Mello serves as Program Director at North State Together, supervising the implementation of the K-16 Educational Collaborative Grant in support of cradle-to-career initiatives within ten counties in far Northern California. Her work emphasizes careful project management, creative problem solving, and regional networking with the aim of removing barriers and increasing career readiness for all in the North State.

Throughout her career in higher education, Onica has excelled in leadership roles focused on creating clear pathways for student access to assistance programs and counseling support. She is passionate about providing equitable educational offerings to all students — a goal which goes beyond the classroom and addresses unique personal challenges and varying local needs.

Onica holds a Bachelor of History degree from the University of Oregon and an MBA with a specialization in Project Management from Chico State University. In addition to her years working in Student Services, she has a background in event management and coordination. She views herself as a lifelong student whose life has been transformed through opportunities afforded through education, and she strives to open those same doors for others.

In her free time, Onica seeks to gain a glimpse into different cultural perspectives through traveling, reading, and visiting museums. She also loves to cook, craft, listen to podcasts, and spend time in the great outdoors.