Leadership
"A leader is someone who demonstrates what's possible."
Mark Yarnell - International Business Leader
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Director
Director, Educational Opportunity Initiatives
University of Michigan-FlintTanya Upthegrove
Tanya’s background made her an interesting and ideal prospect for the Give Merit board. With an MBA, experience in program/strategic development, and the desire to work with a youth development organization, she was it. Her genuine nature and care for the work at hand will allow Give Merit to continue to grow positively as an organization.
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Director
Director, External Affairs
Blue Cross Blue ShieldBeckie Thompson
Beckie’s eagerness to see Give Merit succeed is contagious. Her knowledge of Detroit and the PR/Media landscape, as well as, previous board & leadership experience, have brought energy to all that we do. She brings insight and perspective, and a love for HGTV that is unmatched.
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Treasurer
Associate Pastor
Straight Gate International ChurchJonathan Merritt
As David’s brother and #1 supporter, Jon was a “board member” long before it became a formal role. His passion for the work Give Merit does, and his gift of connecting with people in numerous cross-sections has been a tremendous asset to the organization.
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Executive Director & Secretary
Kuhu Saha
Kuhu's primary goal is to further the organization's community impact. To that end, she works with community partners to create educational programming, handles organizational logistics, coordinates participating students & volunteers, maintains an ongoing partnership with the JRLA, oversees program evaluation, and facilitates fundraising and donor engagement.
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Founder & Board Chair
David Merritt
David is the Founder & CEO of the cause-based clothing company, Merit Goodness. His passion for youth and education begins at the 20% of revenue his company donates to a scholarship for FATE students, and continues into the vision for the FATE program itself. When it comes to program development, he’s known as the “fun police.”