Lone Star College named Ben Melson as vice chancellor, strategic engagement and communications. Melson will be responsible for strategic communications and advocacy policies to support Lone Star College’s mission and goals. Melson began his duties Jan. 8, 2024.
“We are delighted to have Ben join us in this very important role,” said Mario K. Castillo, J.D., LSC chancellor. “His experience in government relations, strategic communications and advocacy initiatives will help to strengthen Lone Star College and continue its mission of supporting students.”
Melson previously served as director of Advocacy with Moak Casey, LLC. where he oversaw marketing communication strategies, strategic planning and community engagement.
“I am eager to work alongside the Lone Star College leadership team to continue the mission of providing the necessary resources to help students be successful,” said Melson. “This is an exciting time for institutions of higher education as we work to address the critical workforce shortage Texas is facing and I look forward to helping promote the great Lone Star College story.”
Melson earned a degree in political science in 2011 from Texas A&M University. Prior to his role as director of Advocacy with Moak Casey, LLC, Melson was Greater Houston Partnership vice president of Strategy. Melson also served on executive loan as Chief of Staff to Marvin Odum, city of Houston COVID-19 Relief and Recovery czar and as chief of staff to Texas State Representative Keven Roberts.
Lone Star College enrolls over 80,000 students each semester providing high-quality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education. LSC is training tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success. Mario K. Castillo, J.D., serves as Chancellor of LSC, the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area. LSC has been named a 2023 Great Colleges to Work For® institution by the Chronicle of Higher Education and recognized by Fortune Magazine and Great Place To Work® as one of this year’s Best Workplaces in Texas™. LSC consists of eight colleges, seven centers, eight Workforce Centers of Excellence and Lone Star Corporate College. To learn more, visit LoneStar.edu.