Jameelah "Jemm" Merritt
For Jameelah "Jemm" Merritt, a 2023 graduate of Herzing University's Online division, education has been a powerful catalyst for creating meaningful change in healthcare and community support. With degrees in both Medical Assisting and Health Sciences, they have built an impressive career focused on healthcare accessibility and social justice.
A Foundation for Healthcare Leadership
Drawn to Herzing University for its outstanding professors and comprehensive curriculum, Jameelah's academic journey began in 2019. Their dedication to excellence was evident through their consistent appearances on both the Dean's List and President's List, and their involvement in published research projects showcased their commitment to advancing healthcare knowledge.
From Medical Assistant to Healthcare Innovator
After graduation, Jameelah quickly secured a position as Lead Medical Assistant, launching a career that would soon expand into broader healthcare leadership. Today, they serve as Research Outreach and Community Project Coordinator, where they continue to make significant contributions to healthcare accessibility and research.
Creating Lasting Community Impact
Perhaps most notably, Jameelah's passion for healthcare equity led them to found One Day @ a Time, NC (ODDATNC), a nonprofit organization serving LGBTQIA+ individuals. The organization provides essential services including free peer support groups, resume services, and referrals for gender-affirming care, particularly focusing on individuals in rural communities and those in wellness recovery.
Their work with the DREAM Project, focusing on gender-affirming healthcare research, further demonstrates their commitment to expanding healthcare access for marginalized communities.
The Herzing Experience
"My time at Herzing University was truly a transformative experience," Jameelah reflects. "Herzing offered me the foundation to explore my passion for public health, social justice, and community care."
They particularly value the university's approach to integrating empathy with evidence-based practices, crediting her instructors for emphasizing real-world applications and investing in their growth beyond the classroom.
Advice for Future Healthcare Leaders
To future Herzing students, Jameelah offers inspiring guidance: "Seek out mentors, stay curious, and don't be afraid to challenge the status quo. Remember that education is not just about earning a degree but about gaining the tools and confidence to create meaningful change."
The Herzing Difference
For Jameelah, Herzing University's unique strength lies in its "unwavering commitment to student success and community engagement." The combination of practical experience and supportive faculty creates an environment where students can develop into leaders who make genuine differences in their fields and communities.
