Mel. Coles is the Program Manager of Engagement, Events & Special Projects for the Artificial Intelligence Interdisciplinary Institute at Maryland (AIM) and the University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (UMIACS). In this role, she leads strategic planning, event production, and programmatic initiatives that foster interdisciplinary collaboration across research, education, and public engagement. A two-time alumna of the University of Maryland, Mel. holds an M.A. in American Studies (’21) and a B.A. in Sociology (’16). Her research investigates Black feminist poetics, queer reimagining, and critical speculation as frameworks to examine modalities of the body and theorize embodiment as subject, project, and myth.

Prior to joining AIM, Mel. supported university-wide engagement through roles in alumni relations, spiritual life, and computing education. She is also the founder of Celestial Grace Events, a consulting firm that specializes in inclusive, mission-driven event strategy. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, collecting antiques, and spending time with her three cats—Emerald, Isis, and Galadriel.