Melenda Knight serves as Associate Director of the Human Performance and Nutrition Research Institute (HPNRI) at Oklahoma State University. She leads the institute’s outreach, engagement, education, communications, and strategic partnership initiatives, working to translate research into programs and resources that improve health, performance, and well-being across Oklahoma and beyond.

With expertise in stakeholder engagement, program development, knowledge translation, and collaborative leadership, Knight has helped establish and expand innovative initiatives including Project ECHO learning networks, professional development programs, community partnerships, and statewide outreach efforts. She is passionate about connecting researchers, practitioners, educators, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to accelerate the adoption of evidence-based practices.

Knight's work focuses on building sustainable partnerships, expanding access to education and expertise, and creating opportunities for individuals and organizations to improve health, performance, and quality of life through research-informed solutions. 

Areas of Expertise:

• Community and Stakeholder Engagement
• Strategic Partnerships and Collaboration
• Project ECHO Program Development and Implementation
• Health and Human Performance Outreach
• Knowledge Translation and Dissemination
• Workforce and Professional Development
• Program Planning and Evaluation
• Organizational and Community Capacity Building
• Research Translation and Public Engagement
• Health Promotion and Education Programs
• Public Education Leadership and Programming