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A Minnesota native, Steve Mellema received his undergraduate degree (with majors in physics and mathematics) from Gustavus Adolphus College in 1972. Following his graduation, he spent six years in Malaysia as a teacher and trainer with the United States Peace Corps. He subsequently attended graduate school at Ohio University, receiving a Ph.D. in experimental nuclear physics in 1983. 

Following postdoctoral positions at Ohio University and the University of Wisconsin, he joined the faculty at Gustavus in 1986. He taught in the physics department through 40 years of graduating classes, and also served three terms as chair of the department. 

As an active member of the American Association of Physics Teachers, Steve incorporated the results of physics-education research into his own teaching of physics for more than three decades, including peer instruction, cooperative-group problem solving, computer simulations, and studio methods. Steve was fortunate to receive two Fulbright Scholar appointments to Malaysia, and used them to bring some of those advancements in physics pedagogy to his adopted "second home'", teaching at the School of Physics at Universiti Sains Malaysia in Penang. 

Over the years, he has also led four study-abroad courses taking Gustavus students to visit and study Malaysia. Steve retired from active teaching in 2025, and is currently a Research Professor of Physics. 

While promoting excellence in academics, athletics, and community engagement, we offer physics majors and anyone interested in physics the chance to explore the field beyond the classroom. We provide opportunities to attend research presentations, hear guest speakers, join social events, and participate in outreach that shares the excitement of physics with the wider community.

We train student-athletes to become peer educators on topics like alcohol and drug prevention, healthy relationships, mental health awareness, and academic success. Our program empowers student-athletes to be positive role models and contribute to campus wellness.

We support students interested in education careers by offering professional development, networking with current educators, and advocacy for public education. We connect aspiring teachers from various subjects and grade levels while promoting the teaching profession.

Gusties get involved with 100 plus clubs and organizations, small classes, and supportive mentors—plus time built in to explore passions beyond the classroom.

The Gustavus Student Senate works hard each week to hear and address concerns from our fellow students. Our goal is to provide a gateway for communication between students and the administration and to promote an active and vibrant campus. Our representatives bring different perspectives on the best ways to collaborate with faculty and solve current student issues.

Senate is responsible for funding many student organizations on campus along with supporting and developing initiatives that improve the Gustavus experience.