For Professor Melany Kyzer, Southern Nazarene has never been merely a workplace – it has been a calling. As chair and professor of mass communication within the Division of Cultural and Communication Studies, she has been actively writing her story at SNU since 1980. She exemplifies a deep commitment not only to professional growth, but also to faith, leadership, and students.
Originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, Kyzer was raised in a Nazarene household shaped by ministry. With her father being a Nazarene pastor, she learned the dynamics of the life she wanted to live early on. When it came time to choose a college, the decision felt certain – attending Southern Nazarene University.
Kyzer graduated from SNU with her Bachelor of Science in biology and a minor in chemistry in 1984. What began as a path toward science – and included a year of student teaching in biology – soon took a turn. “In the Spring of 1985, the university decided to move to establish freshman housing, and I was approached about applying for the position of resident director. After praying about that, I decided to apply and was chosen. That decision changed my entire life,” she explained. “After doing my master’s I was approached about teaching a section of Intro to Speech. The rest is history as they say” Kyzer continued.
Following her transition into teaching, Kyzer’s role at SNU continued to evolve. Over the years, she stepped into a variety of leadership positions across campus, each one expanding her impact on the university community. She served as resident director, director of community life, and later director of housing, before moving into academic services as the department began to take shape.
While investing in students professionally, Kyzer also continued her own education. Following the earning of her Master of Arts from SNU, she pursued her Juris Doctorate, from Oklahoma City University and graduated in 2008 and becoming a licensed attorney the following year.
After several years in upper administration, Kyzer returned to what she values most – working directly with students. She now serves as chair of the Division of Cultural and Communication Studies, where she teaches courses in speech and mass communication while also leading programs in graphic design, English, and nonprofit leadership.
“I think our skills really complement each other,” Kyzer stated, referring to her collaboration with fellow faculty member Professor Jim Smith. While she focuses on theory-based courses, Smith leads hands-on instruction, creating a balanced learning experience for students.
Despite her many titles and responsibilities, Kyzer emphasizes that the heart of her work has always remained the same – “The students,” she said. “I know everyone says that, but it is the absolute truth.” Each academic year brings a new group of students, new stories, and new opportunities for growth. For Kyzer, one of the most rewarding moments is watching those students walk across the graduation stage. “I have a front row, season pass seat to witness God’s work in the lives of our students,” she conveyed. “Not much gets better than that.”
When asked if there was a moment with Christ that shaped the way she approached teaching, Kyzer referred back to a mentor she had while attending SNU. “I pray God will use me, if needed, to be a Dr. Young in someone’s life,” she stated. Kyzer does not want to just live out her time as a teacher. “I want to continue to give my best and my all every day by investing in the lives of our students,” she said. “I want them to see me on campus, to have conversations beyond the classroom, and to know that I care about who they are as individuals.”
When it comes to student growth, Kyzer emphasized development beyond academics. She encourages students to grow spiritually first, followed by personal and academic growth. “If we go to God with every aspect of our lives, I believe the other things will fall into place,” she explained.
On personal growth, Kyzer added, “Grow to be comfortable in who you are. Stretch yourself beyond your comfort zones.” She also reminds students that success is not always defined by grades alone, but by effort, growth, and willingness to embrace new opportunities. “You never know where God is going to lead you,” she voiced. “Take full advantage of this time.”
After more than 40 years of service, Professor Kyzer’s legacy at Southern Nazarene University continues to grow – not just through the positions she has held, but through the countless lives she has impacted along the way. If she could leave every student with one piece of advice, it would be this: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.”
Photo by: MaK Wilkerson