Nygren, a resident of Torrance, California, is a longtime member of Rolling Hills Covenant Church in nearby Rolling Hills Estates. He is a guidance counselor for the Torrance Unified School District, having served in teaching and coaching roles as well. A charter member of the church, he has served in many roles while participating in numerous mission trips, both through his church and Covenant World Relief. He has served as a missions pastor, deacon, elder and search committee chair and has used his construction skills honed in college to help with various building projects at the church.

Rolling Hills Covenant pastors were full of praise for Nygren in nominating him for the award. Senior pastor Byron MacDonald called Nygren "a model servant of our Lord and church," noting his skill and passion to helping the congregation develop and sustain a far-reaching mission presence throughout the world. Joe Handley, associate pastor of outreach ministries, described Nygren as "a true statesman for the sake of Christ."

Pastor Vergil Best noted Nygren's mission work, but added that Nygren's caring spirit and friendly nature also are shining qualities. His love for family and willingness to model servant leadership is notable, along with a knack for making people at home. "He is one who has time for people and his home is a home which shows hospitality and is often full of friends," Best said. "Mel is a friendly man who meets and greets people with a warm, pleasant smile that sets people at ease. He is often found at hospitals early in the morning, praying and encouraging people before (their) surgeries."

Nygren and his wife, Mary (accompanying photo), have four grown children and are the proud grandparents to 13 grandchildren.