Dr. Mel & Nena Chudnof

The Dr. Mel and Nena Chudnof Endowed Scholarship was created to honor Dr. Mel and Nena Chudnof on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary. Mel was a faculty member at the OCC Auburn Hills campus for 43 years. He taught Psychology and coordinated the Mental Health/Social Work associate degree program, teaching its major courses. Nena taught in the West Bloomfield public schools for 31 years and specialized in Gifted Education. They have two children, Jennifer Cassel and Daniel Chudnof. Dan, honoring the family tradition, has been teaching fulltime at OCC since 2012.

Throughout their careers, Mel and Nena dedicated themselves to educating and inspiring their students toward growth in their personal lives and in their pursuit of their educational and professional goals. More than that, Mel and Nena also were leaders in their educational fields. They headed professional organizations, designed new curriculums, and were creative in their teaching methodology. In addition, their strong commitment to their students has helped create many successful professional leaders.

On a personal level, Mel and Nena have been married for more than 50 years. They play a very supportive role with their children and grandchildren. They have always been dedicated volunteers in their community, with a strong commitment to Social Justice. They are adventurous travelers, having visited all 50 states and 80 foreign countries.

Because of the lifelong commitment of Mel and Nena to human service, they designed this scholarship to help students with financial need who have a passion for helping others. Their goal is to support career choices in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or public-school teaching. Helping others to help themselves is the best legacy of Mel and Nena Chudnof.