Melvin Tanner is the senior research analyst in the Office of Institutional Planning and Research at the University of Florida. In this role, he analyzes the effectiveness of retention and graduation efforts to improve student success at the University, with a special focus on non-traditional student populations. He has earned a master's degree in public administration from Florida International University and is pursuing a doctorate in higher education from the University of Florida. Melvin has nearly 20 years of experience in the K-12 and higher education sector. Prior to working at the University of Florida, he served as a public high school teacher in South Florida. His research focuses on identifying and reducing the barriers students face in pursuing college degrees.