At its spring board meeting, the USI Board of Advisors welcomed new board member Ryan Merriwether, Chief Administrative Officer with the Evansville-Vanderburgh School Corporation. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and management information systems from Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Indiana, a Master's in Educational Leadership from USI, and is pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. Take a moment to get to know more about this USI alum.
What is your connection to USI?
I have a unique connection to USI, one that I value greatly. I worked for Deloitte & Touche LLC for two years and decided to pursue a career in education. Through my transition, I worked as a night shift custodian, which allowed me to work and complete my coursework. I tell this story because it emphasizes the importance of enjoying and focusing on life’s journey rather than the destination. Being employed as a custodian, receiving a graduate degree, and now having the honor to serve on the USI Board of Advisors makes USI a special place.
Tell us about your career path.
My professional career began as a Forensic Advisor at Deloitte & Touche LLC in Chicago, IL. I made a career change and decided to become an educator. Over my education career, I have served as a middle and high school math teacher, an assistant principal at the middle and high school level, and most recently, a principal for the last five years. Currently, I am the Chief Administrative Officer for the EVSC, responsible for supporting the seven middle schools.
What advice would you give USI students who are in their senior year?
To the senior students, take a moment to set clear, purpose-driven goals. Craft a vision for your future that reflects your aspirations, talents, and passions. Remember, these goals are not set in stone; they may evolve as you grow. Never underestimate the power of investing in yourself. Continuously seek opportunities to expand your knowledge, cultivate new skills, and embrace lifelong learning. Your investment in self-improvement will compound over time. Secondly, never lose sight of the importance of being a good person. Character and integrity matter as much as accomplishment. Treat those around you with kindness, empathy, and respect; the relationships you foster will enrich your life more than any accolade. Lastly, remember that setting goals, investing in yourself, and embodying goodness are not isolated pursuits. Embrace the challenges and uncertainties as life has its ups and downs.
What is one goal you still want to accomplish?
I have two goals. One goal is to be a superintendent of a public K-12 school district. I also want to start an educational consulting firm focusing on principal development.