About Mel

Mel Dygert is expected to graduate with a B.A. in Public Relations and a minor in Marketing in May 2025 from Drake University. Following graduation, Mel hopes to pursue a Masters in Communication at Drake University.

Mel grew up in Urbandale, Iowa, went to school in Johnston, and graduated from Johnston High School in 2022.

Beginning professional experience

At Drake, Mel started an internship in January 2023 doing Marketing for the athletic department. She has been able to contribute to game operations, half-time and time-out contests, direct and select music, queue pre-game production, and facilitate sponsorship and promotional activities.

Through this internship Mel has worked many athletic events:

• NCAA Tournament 1st round in Des Moines
• Drake Relays-promotions and app notifications
• Girls and Women in sports clinic
• Senior Days
• Championship games and recognitions within the MVC

Recent and New Opportunities

In November 2023, Mel was granted the opportunity to be the Drake Women’s Basketball Emcee. This experience allows Mel to facilitate and create half-time and time-out contests. As the Emcee, Mel aims to bring hype and energy to the Knapp Center, the fans, players, and staff to enhance the game-day experience.

Mel has been a Show Choir Choreographer for two years and travels around Iowa to teach high school students choreography and dance moves that are later put together with vocals.

In the summer of 2024, Mel will begin as a RedBull student marketeer to grow brand awareness and put “cans in the hands” of Drake students and people around Des Moines.