October 06, 2021

Media contact:
Jason Papagan
Manager of Communications
Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society
jpapagan@sigmaxi.org 

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.—Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society announces the hiring of Lisa Merritt in the role of Director of Development. The new position will lead all phases of fundraising development for Sigma Xi while driving growth of contributed revenue streams for the Society. 

Merritt joins Sigma Xi from the University of Miami College of Engineering, where she served as Director of Development. In that role she developed expertise in forging and strengthening key philanthropic relationships, gift solicitation, and influencing complex team dynamics. Prior to her career in higher education, she founded and managed a consulting business focused on strategic vision and fundraising consulting. Merritt received a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and a master's degree in Engineering Management from Florida International University.

“As an engineer, it is a pleasure to represent Sigma Xi as Director of Development as the organization heads into the centennial anniversary of the Grants in Aid of Research program. Scientists worldwide know of the importance of this organization, headquartered in Research Triangle Park, and I am thrilled to be able to contribute to the success of its strategic vision.”

The creation of the Director of Development position represents the start of a new phase of developmental growth for Sigma Xi. In her new role, Merritt will report to Sigma Xi's Executive Director and CEO, Jamie Vernon.

“Lisa brings a wealth of knowledge and range of experiences to the Sigma Xi development team,” said Vernon. “We expect to deliver exciting, new programs and benefits to our members, while advancing science and engineering research, under her leadership.”