Ms. Merritt is the president and chief executive officer of the YWCA of Mahoning Valley, a position she has held since 2018.
CORTLAND, OH, September 12, 2022 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Leah R. Merritt has been inducted into Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.
Ms. Merritt is the president and chief executive officer of the YWCA of Mahoning Valley, a position she has held since 2018, after leading a strategic restructuring and merger between YWCAs Warren and Youngstown. Concurrently, she has served as the president and chief executive officer of the YWCA of Youngstown since 2012. Previous appointments include a role as the interim executive director from 2011 to 2012 and the development director of the YWCA of Youngstown from 2007 to 2011. Ms. Merritt's sustained association with the organization also includes a role as child and youth services director from 2001 to 2007.
A passion for serving others is the driving force behind Ms. Merritt's work. She appreciates that her professional path has afforded her many opportunities to teach and mentor, and promote creative expression and problem-solving. Her responsibilities include fundraising and program development within the housing initiative, and she is an integral presence in meeting with the foundation and engaging with the community. Moreover, Ms. Merritt is active in grant writing and advocacy; her mission always prioritizes social justice projects.
Ms. Merritt earned a Master of Science in health and human service and a Bachelor of Arts in health promotion, both from Youngstown State University. She also thrives on civic engagement as a board member and second vice president of the Warren Kiwanis Club, board member of the League of Women Voters of Greater Youngstown, and chairperson of the Ohio Council of YWCAs. Ms. Merritt has received numerous commendations throughout her career, including recognition as Woman of the Year by the Youngstown Business and Professional Women in 2021 and Penguin Women on the Move from Youngstown University in 2020.
Ms. Merritt's success is due, in large part, to the support of her family and the guidance of superb mentors. She is also grateful for the opportunities to continually pursue professional development, which have energized and advanced her career. Looking toward the future, Ms. Merritt plans to offer consulting services, even post-retirement and envisions starting a small business.
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