What inspires me?  

Strong, honest, ethical people inspire me. People who do not sway in their values or beliefs in the face of challenges but stand firm, even when bending would be easier, more popular, or rewarded. It’s not perfection; it's character and conviction--a willingness to apologize when wrong, listen when inconvenient, and care when confronted. It’s inspirational because it is not easy!  

What makes a great leader?  

There is no leader without followers. A great leader understands that they have the power to influence and inspire followers with integrity and compassion, guided by a purpose and a moral compass that serves to elevate the organizations in which they work. Great leaders project a confidence that is less about them and more about what can be achieved through the development of great followers. Great leaders demonstrate a resilience that serves to propel them and their followers into a future with hope.  

Tell us about a time you felt truly proud of your work. What did you accomplish?  

Knowing your impact is its highest reward.  In my 30+ years in higher education, I have been blessed with the opportunity to stand in front of thousands of students, workshop participants, and conference attendees doing what I love, what I am passionate about, and that for which I truly believe I have been called. There is nothing more fulfilling than hearing from a student or workshop participant not so much about what they learned but more about what they APPLIED as a result! Today, as I lead the Center for Professional Development and Partnerships, my teaching continues. My goal is to spread the good news of Goldey-Beacom College! Literally teaching the business community and other organizational leaders in our State about our mission and vision, rooted in a long history of academic excellence and workforce development!  GBC is not just that “good little school”—we are a recognized College of Distinction! Our faculty, staff, leadership team and board of trustees are committed, united in helping our students “Achieve Greater!”  See...I’m doing it again. I just can’t help myself! How great is that?   

I’ve had students wish their managers were attending my class. I’ve received beautiful notes from grateful participants. But one of my favorite memories is when a student, still donned in cap and gown, was walking across campus, and I yelled, “Congratulations!”  They stopped in their tracks and said, “Thank you! I never thought I would ever get a degree, and here I am, with a Masters.” This is the work at Goldey-Beacom College that makes me most proud and truly humbled. 

Tell us about your most difficult challenge and how you overcame it?

Challenges are inevitable. For me professionally, being asked to step out of the security of the classroom and into this completely new role has been both a great honor and a great challenge. The confidence in my ability itself has been overwhelming. Perhaps like you, the greatest challenges are those that begin in your own head. And so, the best way to overcome those mostly self-imposed roadblocks? Pray and just start.  

Dr. Deanna M. Merritt, PhD, SHRM-CP, is a distinguished faculty member and the Director of the Center for Professional Development and Partnerships at Goldey-Beacom College. She holds a PhD in Human Resource Management and Organizational Behavior with a secondary area in Marketing. Additionally, she has a Master of Arts in English. With over 30 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Merritt is, first and foremost, a teacher, it is her calling. Her dedication to fostering professional growth and her commitment to educational excellence have earned her the prestigious Excellence in Teaching Award. Recognized as a leader among her peers, she has proudly served as Faculty Assembly co-chair.  

Throughout her tenure at Goldey-Beacom College, she has been instrumental in designing and implementing various professional development programs aimed at enhancing skills and advancing careers in diverse fields such as Management, Marketing, and Leadership.  

Dr. Merritt has led numerous initiatives and innovative partnerships, including the launch of the Advancing Digital Learning Symposium, which brings together educators, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore the transformative role of digital technology in education. Other work with Delaware’s Office of Women’s Advancement and Advocacy, DE DECA, the Delaware Restaurant Association and Delaware EPSCoR reflect the College’s values of Integrity, Excellence, Social Responsibility and Innovation and have significantly contributed to the Goldey-Beacom's mission of providing flexible, collaborative, and skills-based training solutions.