At The University of Tulsa, civic engagement is an institution-wide commitment that draws upon the power of education, community service, civic leadership and informing policy to create lasting impact and opportunity in Tulsa and beyond.
The University of Tulsa is proud to announce two recent recipients of Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships: Eden Knepper and Ayden Whittaker. Each year, the U.S. Department of State awards the nationally competitive Gilman awards...
Quraysh Ali Lansana, applied associate professor of English & creative writing, is a distinguished scholar of African American studies, journalist and author of 23 books including poetry, nonfiction and children’s literature. His journey as a writer led him from Enid, Oklahoma, to studying and teaching in cities like Chicago and New York. However, after 30 […]
Serving nontraditional students, such as military veterans, is nothing new at The University of Tulsa, and Don Cowan’s success is a prime example of how students from all backgrounds thrive on campus. Humble and soft-spoken, Cowan (B.S. ’25) graduated from Owasso High School and served eight years as a U.S. Marine before returning to Tulsa […]
The University of Tulsa Kendall College of Arts & Sciences has welcomed alumna Taylor Chukwu as the newest member of its Board of Visitors.
UTulsa assistant professor Cayman Seagraves is leading the charge toward integrating AI into the real estate and finance sectors.
UTulsa has received a $677,000 grant from the Public Knowledge program of the Mellon Foundation to support a joint effort between the university and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation’s Historic and Cultural Preservation Department.
At The University of Tulsa, civic engagement is an institution-wide commitment that draws upon the power of education, community service, civic leadership and informing policy to create lasting impact and opportunity in Tulsa and beyond.

Director of Civic Engagement

Service Learning Coordinator

Residential Experience Coordinator for Student Government Association and Student Organizations
Director of Civic Engagement
Since 2017, Melissa Abdo has directed community service, advocacy, and civic engagement initiatives at the university, guiding students to actively participate in meaningful projects that tackle critical societal challenges, while fostering a strong sense of civic responsibility. Drawing on her experience in advocacy and policy, she connects students with nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and public schools throughout the Tulsa area, providing students with invaluable learning experiences that bridge the gap between academics and real-world impact.
Community Boards and Committees
To book a meeting with Melissa, click here or contact her by email at melissa-abdo@utulsa.edu.
Service Learning Coordinator
Michael has held a variety of administrative management positions at The University of Tulsa, encompassing areas of academic support services, student services administration, and community and civic engagement. Currently, he serves as the Service Learning Coordinator for True Blue Neighbors, the university’s community outreach and engagement initiative, connecting students to the school and community partner organizations in the Kendall-Whittier neighborhood.
Community Boards
To book a meeting with Mike, please email michael-mills@utulsa.edu.
Residential Experience Coordinator for Student Government Association and Student Organizations
Peter joined The University of Tulsa as a full-time employee in 2022 after working with New Student Programs as an intern. He found his passion for working with students when he was an orientation leader and student activities board member during his undergraduate years. Peter focuses on collaboration with campus partners to create an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for students from all backgrounds. He works with the Student Government Association (SGA) and various student organizations to develop students into outstanding citizens that are equipped to serve their campus and Tulsa communities.
Areas of Interest
To book a meeting with Peter, contact him by email at sga.advisor@utulsa.edu!
Join us in fostering civic engagement—an institutional pledge that harnesses the transformative potential of education, community service, civic leadership, and policy advocacy. Together, we strive to cultivate enduring change and expand opportunities, not just for TU, but for communities far and wide