Marcus Merritt's journey to success is a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and the unwavering support of a strong community. Born in Washington, D.C., and raised in Oklahoma, Marcus has always called Oklahoma home. The values he cultivated growing up in the heartland—commitment to family, faith, and hard work—have been the foundation of his life and career.
Marcus’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in General Studies and Liberal Arts. Recognizing early on the importance of a well-rounded education, he sought to expand his knowledge. A diverse educational background served him well as he ventured into various industries.
His experience spanned across multiple areas, from working in customer service and sales to land surveying, manufacturing, and landscaping. However, it was his work in the Mental Health and Substance Abuse field over the last five years that truly shaped his professional path. This experience fostered a deep desire to lead and make a meaningful impact.
Marcus realized that furthering his education was the key to enhancing his leadership and business skills. With this in mind he set his sights on a Master’s in Business Administration. Southern Nazarene University (SNU), with its strong Christian foundation, was the perfect fit.
Marcus's choice to join SNU’s online Master of Business Administration (MBA) program mirrored his life. He is deeply rooted in faith and dedicated to growth. He also balances the demands of work and family. SNU's Professional and Graduate Studies program designs degree programs for busy adults with families or who work full-time.
“The staff at SNU is filled with amazing servant leaders who have empowered me to be successful in both the educational and professional environments,” Marcus shares. The faculty’s genuine commitment to their students’ success is one of the key factors that set SNU apart. Their servant leadership style inspired Marcus and gave him the support and skills he needed to succeed.
Juggling full-time work, family responsibilities, and the demands of a rigorous academic program is no small feat, but Marcus was determined. He found the flexibility of SNU’s online programs to be a lifesaver, allowing him to study and complete assignments on his own schedule.
“The online programs are wonderful for those of us who work full-time, have families, and other responsibilities,” he says. This flexibility enabled Marcus to pursue his academic goals without sacrificing precious time with his son, Ezekiel.
Marcus’s relationship with Ezekiel is one of the most cherished aspects of his life. Whether they are out on the golf course, swimming, barbecuing in the backyard, or enjoying the immersive experience of a 4DX movie, the time they spend together is invaluable. This balance of family life and academic pursuits speaks to Marcus’s priorities—building a future not just for himself, but for his son as well.
Beyond his academic and professional endeavors, Marcus is also deeply involved in his church community. Every Sunday morning, he attends services, finding peace and strength in his faith. Serving on the hospitality and operations teams allows Marcus to give back to his community, reflecting the servant leadership that he so admires and strives to embody in all aspects of his life.
Graduating with his MBA degree in May 2024 was the culmination of a lot of hard work and dedication. While it was a truly momentous occasion for Marcus, his academic journey didn’t stop there. Driven by a desire to continue growing and leading, Marcus has already embarked on the next chapter of his academic career.
Marcus is now pursuing a doctoral degree at SNU through their Doctor of Educational Administration and Leadership (DEAL) program. This pursuit of higher education is a natural extension of his commitment to personal and professional development. The DEAL program will give him additional skills to lead and serve better, building on his business administration degree.
Reflecting on his time at SNU, Marcus is grateful for the opportunities that his education has afforded him. “Earning my degrees set me up for success by helping me develop my business and leadership skills,” he explains. With a wealth of experience across various industries and a strong educational foundation, Marcus is well-prepared to make a significant impact in whatever field he chooses to pursue next.
Marcus Merritt’s story is one of resilience, faith, and the pursuit of excellence. It underscores the importance of community, both in education and in life. The support he received from his family, church, and the dedicated faculty at SNU has been instrumental in shaping the leader he is today. As Marcus continues his journey, there is no doubt that he will carry these values with him.
For Marcus, success is not just about personal achievement. It’s about building a legacy of leadership, service, and faith. This legacy will inspire and uplift others. He wants to use his knowledge and experience to help people. His goal is to make a positive difference in the world. With the foundation he has built at SNU, there is no limit to what he can accomplish.
