The Quadrangle

Issue date: 10/11/06 Section: Features

As one walks into Dr. Kimberly Merriman's office on the fourth floor of De La Salle Hall, one will read a quote by Frederick Douglass that says, "Effective leaders know that you to first touch people's hearts before you ask them for their hand." Douglass' words are essentially what any professor's purpose is-- to help students and make differences in their lives. Merriman, a full-time management professor in the School of Business, is no exception, and she is here to make a difference in Manhattan's Community.
Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, Merriman grew up in the Philadelphia area. She most recently served as a faculty member for three years at Wichita State University in Wichita, Kansas, and she is excited to be back on the northeast coast.
Merriman started her career at Temple University in Pennsylvania. Her website, www.kkmerriman.com, states, "From 1986-1999 Merriman provided commercial real estate and business valuation consulting services to small and big businesses, such as Marriott Corp. and Federated Department Stores, and government agencies."
Furthermore, Merriman said, "So far, my MC experience has been superb. Students are respectful, and faculty members are very collegial and supportive. Dean Suarez is one of the most approachable deans - for faculty and students - that I have encountered. As an added bonus, even the lunch buffet is top notch!"
Professor Hung Chu of the Management Department, said, "Professor Merriman is very concerned about the student learning process. She tries to help students as much as possible. Merriman even gives class time to her students for team preparations. It is no doubt that she is very accommodating to her students. Moreover, she is adjusting well here. Kimberly is very pleasant and friendly with faculty members."
Merriman described her work experience and explained, "I worked in business for a number of years prior to entering academe. Back then, I never imagined giving up the exciting challenges of business. I was actually pursuing my MBA in finance when I got the inspiration to switch tracks, pursue my Ph.D., and become a professor instead. I owe my change of heart to an inspiring professor I had as an undergraduate student."
Merriman is a well-rounded individual and an expert in her field. Professor Fitzpatrick of the School of Business said Merriman is "very well-qualified. She is well-trained in terms of sophisticated research. I remember that during the recruiting period we chose her over a visiting professor, which is very unusual. She is outstanding, and her interaction with other faculties is very impressive. She is at a point where she is getting situated, but she is definitely making a good early impression here. She did presentations for faculty members which were very impressive."

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