For Dal student-athlete Melina Collins, community has always meant more than simply showing up. It means creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and connected.
That commitment has defined her time at Dal and led to her being named 2026 recipient of the Dr. Anne Marie Ryan Community Growth Award. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate a sustained commitment to strengthening community through service, collaboration, thoughtful action, and empathy, values reflected in Melina’s work.
Melina, a fourth-year psychology student and member of the women’s basketball team, has translated that mindset into action by creating Tigers Read, a literacy-based mentorship program that connects student-athletes with children in Grades 1-5.
Melina created the program after seeing a lack of accessible and engaging literacy support, filling the need while also giving student-athletes a chance to contribute beyond the court. She built the program around the goal of supporting early literacy and creating meaningful relationships between students and young learners.
“The goal was to connect with the community, see where there was a need, and create an initiative to fill that gap,” she says.
Each session combines reading, interactive activities, and mentorship in a supportive environment. The program has been particularly impactful for children who are learning English or who may not have consistent access to academic support, helping to build both confidence and a sense of belonging.
Melina says the most meaningful part of the program has been witnessing the positive change it has created.
“Putting all the pieces together and then at the end of the program, seeing the impact that it had was really special for me,” she says.
Leading through action
Melina’s work doesn’t stop with Tigers Read. She has been involved in volunteer initiatives with the IWK Health Centre and other community programs, helping build connections between Dal student-athletes and their community.
“Melina is someone who brings consistency, care, and positivity into every environment she’s part of,” says Tanya McKay, head coach of the women's basketball team. “She leads through her actions and sets a standard for others.”
Melina says her experiences as a student-athlete have shaped how she approaches leadership beyond sport. “You develop a wide range of skills that are useful, not just in sports, so I've built a really solid foundation of leadership skills to help me work with people in my community,” she said.
Melina, left, with some fellow Tigers.
Small gestures, big impact
Melina says receiving the Dr. Anne Marie Ryan Community Growth Award reflects the values she continues to carry forward. Her work demonstrates that leadership is not always about recognition, but about her effort to make a difference in the lives of others.
“What stands out most about Melina is her sincerity,” says her coach. “She doesn’t do things for recognition. She shows up because she truly cares.”
As she prepares to graduate this spring and pursue a future in medicine, Melina remains focused on continuing that impact, using her skills and experiences to support and connect with others in meaningful ways.
“This award is just a reminder to keep being me,” she says. “It's a reminder not to underestimate the impact that small things can have on people.”