Melanie Olivas-Damian (she/her) is a Master of Social Work student at the University of Iowa with an interest in research and program evaluation. Her background in caregiving has shaped her commitment to compassionate, client-centered work, while her Bachelor of Social Work practicum at Johnson County Social Services introduced her to the importance of data and evaluation in addressing community needs. Melanie is especially interested in exploring how evaluation and research can strengthen programs that promote equity and improve access to services for underserved populations.