First-Gen Student Named South Carolina's Top College Leader

Alex Melgar walked onto Presbyterian College's campus as a first-generation student from Lancaster, South Carolina, uncertain about his place in higher education. Four years later, he's been named the 2026 McLean-Smith South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities Student of the Year, the state's top honor for college students.

The award recognizes outstanding academic achievement, leadership, public service, and commitment to community. Melgar, who's pursuing double majors in political science and public policy and history, currently serves as president of the Student Government Association and vice president of the Hispanic Appreciation Organization.

But his path to statewide recognition wasn't about collecting titles. It started with a simple decision to get involved despite his uncertainty.

"I arrived at PC as a first-generation college student uncertain about where I fit and how involved I should become," Melgar said. That initial hesitation transformed into purposeful action as he found communities that welcomed him, particularly through PC's first-generation student programs and the Hispanic Appreciation Organization.

Today, Melgar leads with the same students he once was in mind. Through Student Government, he advocates for the entire student body. Through the Hispanic Appreciation Organization, he creates belonging for Hispanic students while sharing his culture with others. He also works with Student Volunteer Services connecting campus to the Clinton community and supports other first-generation students through PresbyFirst+.

PC President Dr. Anita Gustafson said Melgar represents the college at its best. "What distinguishes him is the way he uses his abilities and his leadership to serve others," she said. "Alex understands that leadership is not simply about holding a position. It is about creating opportunities, strengthening community and helping others recognize their own potential."

Melgar learned he won while interning in Washington, D.C. He stepped outside his office and immediately called his family and mentors who supported his journey.

Why This Inspires

Melgar's story matters beyond one student's success. For every first-generation college student questioning whether they belong, his journey offers proof that uncertainty doesn't disqualify you from leadership. His approach to service shows how finding your own footing can become the foundation for lifting others up.

The award comes with a $3,000 scholarship and honors the legacies of J. Lacy McLean and Sterling L. Smith, advocates for accessible higher education in South Carolina. Melgar plans to pursue public service after graduation, possibly in nonprofit work or public policy.

He's guided by PC's motto: "While We Live, We Serve." For Melgar, those words have become more than a phrase. They've shaped how he leads today and how he plans to live tomorrow.