Dr. Merritt, the president and co-founder of Care Based Leadership, LLC, has always been inspired by the idea of doing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work differently. Almost a decade ago, she and her co-founders set out to create an organization that prioritized people while building the capacity for inclusion within various institutions. Their goal was to make DEI more than just a checkbox and instead center on real, impactful change. Dr. Merritt’s background in higher education and her doctoral studies at the University of Toledo were crucial in shaping the foundation of the company. Her research into effective ways of teaching about diversity became a cornerstone of Care Based Leadership, which is committed to helping individuals move beyond their comfort zones and create equitable environments.

Over her nearly two decades of experience in the DEI field, Dr. Merritt has seen tremendous changes. Society has shifted rapidly as individuals begin to identify and embrace their true selves. People have grown more conscious of their identities, expanded their vocabulary to include pronouns, and begun demanding inclusive spaces where diversity thrives. She notes that one of the most significant changes is the widespread desire for diversity, equity, and inclusion. DEI work is no longer the domain of a single face or leader. Today, anyone, anywhere, and at any time can be an advocate for justice and equity. Dr. Merritt celebrates this shift, acknowledging that the fight for justice is now a collective effort.
Dr. Merritt’s academic journey has been a guiding force in her professional work, particularly in strategic planning and curriculum design. With a PhD in Social Foundations of Education and a focus on Research and Measurement, she approaches strategic planning much like her dissertation. She emphasizes the importance of building a strong team, composed of content specialists and methodologists, to gather data and make well-informed recommendations. Her curriculum design process mirrors this strategy—focusing on research and teamwork to ensure the most impactful educational experiences for participants. This rigorous approach is something she honed during her undergraduate studies at The College of Wooster, where she developed skills in research, critical thinking, and independent problem-solving. These tools are now integral to her daily work.
One of the distinctive aspects of Dr. Merritt’s work is her commitment to mentoring Black and Brown women, offering both individual and group coaching. Through her individual coaching, Dr. Merritt provides a personalized approach that allows her to dig deep into her clients' goals, ask difficult questions, and challenge them to redefine success. The duration of individual coaching varies, depending on the client’s industry and personal situation, but Dr. Merritt remains dedicated until each client achieves their goals. In contrast, her group coaching programs are structured around specific goals over a set period. For instance, she runs a six-week program for new professionals that covers essential topics like corporate culture, mentorship, and sponsorship. In 2025, Dr. Merritt will launch a new cohort specifically for Black and Brown women in the corporate, non-profit, and educational sectors. Her ultimate aim with both individual and group coaching is to build capacity and equip participants with the skills to positively impact the world around them.

Dr. Merritt’s dedication to her work has not gone unnoticed. She was honored with Vibrant Pittsburgh’s inaugural Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award, an accolade that she describes as particularly meaningful. As a self-professed “data nerd,” Dr. Merritt takes pride in her ability to measure and assess DEI efforts. However, she emphasizes that her work is never about recognition but about making real, human connections and restoring humanity in the workplace. The award reinforced that her work is not only valued but also inspiring others in her community, including her daughters, to do the hard work for the right reasons.
As a board member for organizations like the Pennsylvania Head Start Association and East End Cooperative Ministries (EECM), Dr. Merritt is passionate about changing the life outcomes of historically marginalized groups. Head Start, for example, has a profound impact on young learners by shaping their educational trajectories and providing generational support. EECM, on the other hand, works to combat poverty through community food services, housing, and employment initiatives, all while focusing on the individual people it serves. Dr. Merritt is most passionate about seeing real, tangible change in people’s lives—something that has profoundly influenced how she approaches her leadership roles. She understands that while theory and practice are necessary, the true value lies in witnessing positive transformations in the communities she serves.
Despite wearing many hats—DEI advocate, board member, sports mom, and volunteer—Dr. Merritt has learned to embrace the idea of balance with grace. She laughs at the concept of balance, acknowledging that some days are better than others. Whether she’s excelling in her work or just making it through the day, Dr. Merritt believes in giving herself grace. This philosophy of self-compassion has shaped her leadership approach, where she leads by example and encourages others to challenge themselves while having the right support systems in place.
Care Based Leadership’s work in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors emphasizes equity and inclusion, but Dr. Merritt notes that one of the biggest challenges is defining what “meaningful change” looks like for each client. Some organizations are genuinely committed to DEI work, while others are more focused on checking off boxes. Her team works hard to uncover the unique needs of each organization and deliver human-centered recommendations that lead to real cultural change. By building genuine partnerships with their clients, Care Based Leadership is able to drive meaningful change across industries.
At the heart of Dr. Merritt’s work is her role as a mother to Hannah and Nia. She hopes that the changes she’s helping to create will benefit her daughters, both personally and professionally. Her children have witnessed her achieve her wildest dreams, from earning her PhD to solving complex problems in business and beyond. They understand the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion and view the unique attributes of others as strengths. Dr. Merritt hopes that her daughters will grow up in a world that supports and nurtures these values and that they will be ready to make their own positive impact in the future.
Looking ahead, Dr. Merritt envisions expanding Care Based Leadership’s impact by scaling their training models and providing more virtual options. She dreams of a future where her children can grow up in and possibly one day own the company, continuing its legacy of driving DEI work forward. With more graduated cohorts and ongoing contributions to academic understandings of DEI, Dr. Merritt is committed to seeing continued improvements in the communities they serve.
CONNECT WITH Jessica

Dr. Jessica Merritt is the president and co-founder of Care Based Leadership, LLC. Dr. Merritt almost two decades of experience in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Her earned degrees include a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Sociology and a PhD in Social Foundations of Education with a specialty in Research and Measurement.
In addition to her role at Care Based Leadership, LLC. Dr. Merritt has a demonstrated commitment to issues increasing the capacity for diversity, equity and inclusion in for-profit and non-profit organizations, PK-12 school districts, and higher education institutions through research, training, strategic planning and curriculum design. Additionally, she believes in investing in the success of Black and Brown women through mentoring, coaching, and sponsorship. Dr. Merritt serves as a board member with the East End Cooperative Ministries (EECM), the Three Rivers Community Foundation, the Pennsylvania Head Start Association, the Region III Head Start Association, and the National Head Start Association. She is a commissioner on the PACE board, a volunteer for Pittsburgh Public Schools, and a fierce sports mom.
Dr. Jessica Merritt has recently been recognized by Vibrant Pittsburgh by receiving their inaugural Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award. She is a proud parent to Hannah and Nia Spradley. Her drive is fueled by the desire to create a world where equity and inclusion is intentionally fostered for all so her Black daughters can be successful in any space their path takes them.
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