Collier Merrill

UWF degree and year of graduation:
BS, Management, 1985

Why did you choose to attend UWF?
When I transferred from the University of Alabama, UWF fit my needs in a wonderful way. The curriculum was strong, the faculty were highly respected and I was able to continue to work.

What were your goals as a student?
To gain knowledge about all aspects of the world of business.

What is your best memory from your days at UWF?
The faculty. They were not only great teachers, but were also very personable.

Who was your favorite professor and why?
C.C. Elebash. He was a wonderful professor, and I loved his class, Quantitative Methods.

What do you do now and how did UWF help you progress to this point?
I am currently President of J.C. Merrill Investments, Inc. At UWF, I learned the tools of the business world that I still use today.

Please describe any other areas that you are involved in, such as volunteer work, mentoring, serving on various boards, etc.
Community Maritime Park Board, Sacred Heart Board, West Florida Historic Preservation, Inc. Board, Chair Toqueville Society for United Way of Escambia County.

How do you stay connected to UWF?
In addition to serving on the Board of Trustees, I attend some of the many events that UWF offers.

What advice do you have to current and future UWF students?
Take advantage of the many opportunities that UWF offers, including the many relationships and community contacts you can establish.

What quality makes UWF special or unique?
UWF is constantly increasing its connection to our community. This is much greater at UWF compared to other Florida universities – it’s a tremendous asset.

Back to top