Jeff State President Featured in Birmingham Magazine

Birmingham Magazine Article 

(October 2013  -  Photo by Art Meripol)

Dr. Judy Merritt

President, Jefferson State Community College

Judy Merritt grew up in a home where both of her parents were educators, so perhaps it isn’t a surprise she pursued a career in education as well. Her interest was initially in elementary or middle school. Little did she know when she was working as an admissions counselor and then assistant director of admissions at Jefferson State Community College, that years later, she would be the president of the institution.

“When I first began working with the students at Jeff State, something clicked. I understood that giving these students a chance to pursue a college education was a very important piece in the future success of the state of Alabama,” Merritt explains.

Merritt’s next step in her career took her to Florida International University where she worked for five years. In 1979, she came back to Jeff State to serve as president and was the first woman appointed to that role in the state of Alabama.

“That was stunning to me. It was a wonderful opportunity but it also made me realize that women had been neglected in regards to their career paths. I definitely felt a sense of responsibility and wanted to set a good example,” Merritt says.

“This community was very supportive as I took on this role. I never felt I was denied an opportunity. I also received a huge amount of support from my husband.”

Throughout her career, Merritt has served on numerous boards and committees including the United Way of Central Alabama, Bruno’s Supermarkets, the American Heart Association, Energen, SouthTrust and was the first female chair of the Birmingham Area Chamber of Commerce.

“I learned so much from my colleagues in the business community. I benefited greatly from their guidance and perspective.”

During her tenure, Jeff State has grown to four campuses and is now offering online education. Merritt explains, “Access is guaranteed. Educational preparation is a growing necessity and it definitely makes a difference in your quality of life.”

“We have a tremendous staff who truly care about the students. We’re very team oriented and are in constant communication and learn from one another.”